Whether you’re launching a startup, working from home, or simply using your laptop for everyday tasks, learning keyboard shortcuts can free up hours of your time each week. These quick keystroke combinations allow you to navigate your computer more swiftly, manage multiple tasks with ease, and lessen your dependence on the mouse or trackpad.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most commonly used keyboard shortcuts for both Windows and Mac, plus a few bonus tips to enhance your productivity.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most commonly used keyboard shortcuts for both Windows and Mac, plus a few bonus tips to enhance your productivity.
Essential Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows and Mac Users
- Copy
- Ctrl + C
- Command (⌘) + C
- Paste
- Ctrl + V
- Command (⌘) + V
- Cut
- Ctrl + X
- Command (⌘) + X
- Undo
- Ctrl + Z
- Command (⌘) + Z
- Redo
- Ctrl + Y
- Command (⌘) + Shift + Z
- Select All
- Ctrl + A
- Command (⌘) + A
- Find
- Ctrl + F
- Command (⌘) + F
- Switch Between Apps
- Alt + Tab
- Command (⌘) + Tab
- Switch Between Windows of Same App
- Ctrl + Tab / Alt + Esc
- Command (⌘) + ` (backtick)
- Lock Screen
- Windows + L
- Control + Command (⌘) + Q
- Screenshot
- Windows + Shift + S
- Command (⌘) + Shift + 4
- Reopen Closed Tab (Browser)
- Ctrl + Shift + T
- Command (⌘) + Shift + T
Navigation and Window Management
- Minimize Window
- Windows + Down Arrow
- Command (⌘) + M
- Maximize / Restore Window
- Windows + Up Arrow
- Control + Command (⌘) + F
- Close Active Window
- Alt + F4
- Command (⌘) + W
- Snap Window Left/Right
- Windows + Left/Right Arrow
- Not native (use third-party apps)
- Show Desktop
- Windows + D
- F11 or Command (⌘) + F3 (Mission Control)
- Task View / App Exposé
- Windows + Tab
- Control + Up Arrow
Quick Cleanup & Utility
- Delete File Permanently
- Shift + Delete
- Command (⌘) + Delete
- Empty Trash / Recycle Bin
- Not native (manual)
- Command (⌘) + Shift + Delete
- Refresh Page
- F5 or Ctrl + R
- Command (⌘) + R
- Force Quit App
- Ctrl + Shift + Esc
- Command (⌘) + Option + Esc
Mastering keyboard shortcuts goes beyond just saving time; it’s really about working more intelligently. Whether you’re toggling between windows, bringing back closed tabs, or organizing your screen, these shortcuts help you maintain focus and efficiency on both Windows and Mac.
If you’re just diving into shortcuts, it’s a good idea to start with the basics and work your way up. And if you’re already a shortcut master, consider passing this guide along to your team or saving it for quick reference when you need it!
If you’re just diving into shortcuts, it’s a good idea to start with the basics and work your way up. And if you’re already a shortcut master, consider passing this guide along to your team or saving it for quick reference when you need it!
