Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts to make life easier
Tired of using the keyboard every time you want to do something? Well, with Windows 11 hotkeys or keyboard shortcuts, getting the job done is a little easier.
But why exactly Windows 11?
Microsoft Windows 11 is a new player in town that is attracting users and is already changing the rules of the game. The new Windows is designed to boost creativity and productivity with a user-friendly design.
Windows 11 brings people together and believes in PC gaming. The latest operating system comes with some of the best features and unique keyboard shortcuts to make it easier to access items. Hence, users are looking forward to installing Windows 11.
Keyword shortcuts made it easier to access system features. However, memorizing shortcuts is challenging and it can take time to get them right.
We are not talking about Ctrl+A, Ctrl+C, Ctrl+X and Ctrl+V which can select, copy, cut or paste content respectively and are standard keyboard shortcuts. But we are talking about shortcuts that are unique and can make things easier.
But before we start catching big fish in the sea, let's introduce you to some common keyboard shortcuts to warm you up.
- Redo and Undo - Ctrl + Y and Ctrl + Z.
- Close window or current application - Alt+F4
- Open a new explorer - Windows key + E
- Permanently delete the selected item - Ctrl + Delete
- Open the Snipping tool - Windows key + Shift + S
- Take a screenshot and save it to a folder - Windows Key + PrtScn
- Switch between windows and applications - Alt + Tab
Windows key + A
Using the Windows key + A, users can open the Action Center. Think of the Notification Center as where users can take actions or view notifications. Through it, users can access their Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, brightness, and other features. This option also allows them to open settings using the button present in the Notification Center.
Windows key + C
On Windows 10, the Windows key + C can open Cortana, but on Windows 11 it opens a Microsoft Teams chat. A quick access panel will open to check their contacts and recent messages. The quick window also allows users to start calls or meetings without opening the actual app.
Windows key + H
If you love voice input, Windows Key + H will be your favorite keyboard shortcut. This will allow users to start voice typing to dictate text and the words will be automatically entered. A small window will open with a microphone button, and by clicking the button, users can start speaking. Think of it as dictation or speech recognition, making it easy to take notes without typing.
Windows key + K
Easily connect your system to a wireless display using the Windows key + K. It opens the Cast panel in the lower right corner of the screen, showing the screens available for users to connect.
Windows key + N
This key combination opens the calendar and notification center on the screen. However, users can access the calendar by clicking the date and time in the bottom right corner. If you're set to use the keyboard, the Windows key + N might be your choice.
Windows key + W
Access the widget panel directly by pressing Windows key + W. It contains widgets for the calendar, OneDrive photos, weather, games, traffic, and more. Along with that, users can stay in touch with the latest news with a keyboard shortcut.
Windows key + Z
Snap layouts are brand new features for Windows that allow users to work with multiple applications. The Windows Key + Z function can open a window using the minimize or maximize window or application button. Users can select layouts for anchoring apps without resizing windows to suit their needs.
Windows key + Alt + up arrow
Another way to snap an app or window to the top half of the screen is to press the Windows key + Alt + up arrow. This will minimize the application or window and display it in the top half of the screen instead of full screen. This will also prompt users to open another app or page in the bottom half.
Windows key + down arrow
This keyboard shortcut will shrink the active application or window if it takes up the entire screen or half of the screen.
Windows key + Alt + down arrow
This works the opposite of Windows Key + Alt + Up Arrow. This will place the app in the bottom half of the screen and the top half will prompt you to open another page.
Output
Keyboard shortcuts can help you navigate certain parts intuitively and easily. However, you need to know how the keyboard works in order to be aware and understand what you are doing. Here are the main features of Windows 11 that you should be aware of.
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