Summary

The webpage provides a list of 13 lesser-known keyboard shortcuts that enhance productivity and multitasking on Windows and Mac computers.

Abstract

The article titled "13 Hidden Keyboard Shortcuts That You Didn’t Know" outlines various keyboard combinations that can significantly improve the efficiency of computer users. These shortcuts include creating and switching between virtual desktops, quickly returning to the desktop, and opening pinned applications from the taskbar. Additionally, the article explains how to split the screen for multitasking, switch between open applications, manage programs, open file explorer, use the magnifier tool, take screenshots, access the action center, enter settings, and lock the PC. The shortcuts are tailored to both Windows and Mac systems, with specific key combinations provided for each. The author suggests that these shortcuts can be particularly useful in situations where the user needs to manage multiple tasks or switch contexts quickly without losing progress or organization.

Opinions

The author implies that the ability to create a virtual desktop is a convenient feature for users who juggle multiple tasks and need to maintain focus without closing existing tabs.
Switching between virtual desktops is presented as a seamless way to manage different workstations efficiently.
The author expresses personal frustration with having multiple applications open at once and suggests the Windows key + M shortcut as a practical solution to quickly access the desktop.
Pinning frequently used applications to the taskbar and using the Windows key + a number key is recommended as a time-saving method to open apps.
The split-screen feature is highlighted as a beneficial tool for users who need to compare information between two files or applications simultaneously.
Using keyboard shortcuts to switch between apps is portrayed as a more efficient alternative to using a mouse for the same task.
The author indicates that the ability to restart the device without losing progress is a valuable feature, particularly for troubleshooting.
Opening the file explorer with a keyboard shortcut is suggested as a quicker method than navigating with a mouse.
The use of the magnifier tool via keyboard shortcuts is seen as a convenient way to zoom in on content for better visibility.
The article suggests that using the Windows key + PrtSc for taking screenshots is a straightforward method that saves time compared to using more complex image capture processes.
Accessing the action center with a keyboard shortcut is recommended for quick management of settings like Bluetooth.
The author believes that having direct access to the PC's settings through a keyboard shortcut is a modern convenience.
Locking the PC with a quick key combination is presented as a security essential for users who need to step away from their computers.

13 Hidden Keyboard Shortcuts That You Didn’t Know

#7 Program Management and Troubleshooting

1. Create a Virtual Desktop

Did you ever find yourself in a situation where you had a million tabs opened and you were working with a lot of concentration only to find your boss by your side to dump more ‘urgent’ tasks? Also because your desktop was already a mess, you had to shut down all the tabs to concentrate better on the task at hand. After which, you had to start all over again.

I don't know about you, but I always found this keyboard shortcut handy under such circumstances. You can always enable a ‘virtual desktop’ using the keyboards.

In a Windows PC press,

Windows key + Ctrl + D

to enable a new virtual desktop where you will find a completely fresh screen for you to work on.

In Mac, you may press

Control + Up

2. Switch Between The Virtual Desktops

Now that you have a virtual desktop set up, you can switch back forth between that and the original desktop.

For a Windows PC press,

Windows key + Ctrl

While in a Mac, simply press the Control button.

You can now switch between the two work stations easily.

3. Return to the Desktop From Apps

I never open just one app or just one tab on my browser. There are always a million interfaces working at the same time. Every time I want to access the desktop directly — it’s such a hassle.

If you ever find yourself in a situation like mine, simply press

Windows key + M.

Tada! You have the desktop available to you with a single hassle-free click.

4. Open an App From the Taskbar

If you use a few apps on a daily basis, try pinning those on the taskbar. It makes access much easier. Depending on the position at which the applications appear on the taskbar, press

Windows key + a number key from 1 to 9.

Click the number depending on the app’s position from left to right on the taskbar.

5. Split-Screen

If you have to compare data from two different files, instead of going back and forth, you can simply split the screen. This way you can access both the files at the same time.

First, open the app you are working on and by pressing,

Windows key + left arrow.

Then open the other app by pressing,

Windows key + right arrow

Now the two apps will be sharing the screen simultaneously.

6. Switch Between Apps

In order to access all the applications open in your PC, press

Ctrl + Alt + Tab

7. Program Management and Troubleshooting

In order to restart your device and not lose all the progress you made, press

Ctrl + Shift + Esc

or when on Mac press,

Command + Option + Escape

8. Open File Explorer

In order to open the file manager on your PC, press

Windows key + E

For Mac users click on your Finder app.

9. Use Magnifier

In order to zoom in and zoom out wherever your cursor is at, press

Windows key combined with the + or — key

That combination will open the magnifier app and zoom in or out anything and everything.

10. Take Screenshots

In order to take a screenshot, press

Windows key + PrtSc

and save it as an image folder in your hard-drive. You may also paste the screenshotted image in paint or MS Word or any other app.

11. Use Action Center

To open Bluetooth, press

Windows key + A.

Mac users can access their notification centre at their top right-hand corner.

12. Access Settings

To access the advanced settings of your PC, press

Windows key + I

13. Lock PC

If you suddenly have to step away from your computer and want to lock your user account using the keyboard shortcuts, press

Windows key + L

While the Mac users may press

Shift + Command + Q