Windows Keyboard Shortcuts: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to using a Windows computer, mastering keyboard shortcuts can greatly improve your productivity and efficiency. With the latest release of Windows 11, Microsoft has introduced several new universal shortcuts that work across all apps and control basic Windows functions. In this article, we'll explore the various Windows keyboard shortcuts and what each letter in the alphabet does.

One of the most significant changes in Windows 11 is the introduction of universal shortcuts performed with the Windows key. These shortcuts are designed to be used across all apps and control fundamental Windows functions. Some of these shortcuts have been around for a while, while others are new to the latest edition of Windows.

Here are some of the most useful Windows keyboard shortcuts:

* Windows+Z: Open Snap layouts (if a window is open)

* Windows+Y: Switch input between Windows Mixed Reality and desktop

* Windows+X: Open the power user menu (like right-clicking Start button)

* Windows+W: Open (or close) the Widgets menu

* Windows+V: Open clipboard history (if enabled)

* Windows+U: Open accessibility settings in the Settings app

* Windows+T: Cycle through and focus on taskbar application icons

* Windows+S: Open Search menu (yes, there's currently two of them)

* Windows+R: Open the Run dialog (for running commands)

* Windows+P: Open Project menu (for switching display modes)

* Windows+O: Lock screen rotation (orientation)

* Windows+N: Open notification center and calendar

* Windows+K: Open Cast in Quick Settings (for Miracast)

* Windows+J: Set focus to a Windows tip (if on screen)

* Windows+H: Open voice typing (speech dictation)

* Windows+D: Display (and hide) the desktop

* Windows+B: Focus on the first icon in the Taskbar system tray

Interestingly, at least seven of these shortcuts are new to Windows 11. While some of these go as far back as Windows 95, newer editions of Windows have changed a few over time.

For reference, we'll run through the entire list of 26 letters with both the Windows key and the Control key. This will give you a comprehensive understanding of what each letter in the alphabet does when combined with these two keys.

In conclusion, mastering Windows keyboard shortcuts can greatly improve your productivity and efficiency when using a Windows computer. By learning these shortcuts, you'll be able to perform common tasks quickly and easily, and take full advantage of the features offered by Windows 11.