Hidden Windows Keyboard Shortcuts You Probably Don’t Know About
Hidden Windows Keyboard Shortcuts You Probably Don’t Know About
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Windows OS offers plenty of well-known shortcuts like Ctrl + C (copy) and Alt + Tab (switch apps), but there’s a world of lesser-known yet powerful shortcuts that can enhance your productivity. This guide explores unique and less-familiar shortcuts—ones that are not widely used or discussed. Let's dive into these hidden gems and unlock some serious efficiency!
1. Win + . (Period) – Emoji Panel
Quickly access emojis, symbols, and GIFs on Windows!
- Press Win + . to open the emoji panel anywhere you type text.
- Explore tabs for symbols, GIFs, and Kaomoji (like (╯°□°)╯︵ ┻━┻).
2. Ctrl + Shift + Esc – Direct Task Manager Access
While many use Ctrl + Alt + Del to access Task Manager, Ctrl + Shift + Esc opens it directly.
- Skip the intermediate menu and jump straight into Task Manager to kill tasks or monitor performance.
3. Win + Shift + S – Take Selective Screenshots
This shortcut brings up the Snipping Tool overlay, letting you quickly capture part of your screen.
- Use Cases: Capture snippets for documents, create tutorials, or save chat screenshots without cropping.
4. Win + Ctrl + D – Create a New Virtual Desktop
For those working with multiple projects, virtual desktops are a lifesaver.
- Use Win + Ctrl + D to create a new virtual desktop instantly.
- Switch between desktops using Win + Ctrl + → / ←.
5. Alt + Ctrl + Tab – Lock the Task Switcher
Instead of holding Alt + Tab to switch apps, this shortcut locks the task switcher in place.
- Release the keys and navigate with your arrow keys or mouse to select an app.
6. Win + Ctrl + Shift + B – Restart Graphics Driver
If your screen freezes or the display acts weird, Win + Ctrl + Shift + B will restart the graphics driver.
- No need to restart your PC—this shortcut often resolves minor display glitches instantly.
7. Shift + Right-Click on Files/Folders – Advanced Context Menu
Hold Shift while right-clicking on files or folders to reveal additional options like “Open in New Process” or “Copy as Path.”
- Use Case: Quickly get the path of files or folders for coding or troubleshooting.
8. Win + L – Lock Your PC Instantly
Leaving your desk? Use Win + L to lock your PC immediately and prevent unauthorized access.
9. Win + +/- (Plus/Minus) – Magnifier Tool
Activate the Magnifier tool with Win + + (plus) and zoom out with Win + - (minus).
- Use Case: Helpful for presentations, zooming into images, or accessibility needs.
10. Alt + Space + M – Move Windows with Arrow Keys
Ever lost a window off-screen? Use Alt + Space + M to activate the Move command, and then use arrow keys to bring it back.
11. Win + Home – Minimize All Windows Except the Active One
Use Win + Home to minimize all windows except the currently active one.
- Use Case: Focus on a single task without distractions from other open apps.
12. Win + Shift + M – Restore Minimized Windows
If you’ve minimized all windows, use Win + Shift + M to restore them.
13. Win + K – Quick Access to Wireless Devices
Win + K opens the Connect panel to link to wireless displays or Bluetooth devices.
- Use Case: Quickly connect to projectors or wireless audio devices during meetings.
14. Ctrl + Shift + T – Reopen Closed Tabs in Browser
Accidentally closed a browser tab? Use Ctrl + Shift + T to reopen it instantly.
- Works in most browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge).
15. Win + G – Open the Xbox Game Bar
Even if you’re not a gamer, Win + G gives access to performance metrics, screen recording, and sound settings.
16. Shift + F10 – Open Context Menu Without Right-Click
This shortcut opens the right-click context menu wherever the cursor is, especially useful when the mouse isn't working.
17. Ctrl + Alt + Del + Esc – Instant Emergency Log Off (Hidden Combo)
Hold Ctrl + Alt + Del and quickly hit Esc to log off in case of emergency.
- Great for fast log-outs without shutting down the system.
18. Win + P – Switch Display Modes
Use Win + P to toggle between multiple display modes (e.g., duplicate, extend, or second screen only).
19. Win + V – Access Clipboard History
Instead of just using Ctrl + V to paste the last copied item, Win + V opens clipboard history, allowing you to select from multiple copied items.
- Enable Clipboard History from Windows settings to use this feature.
20. Win + Tab – Timeline View
Unlike Alt + Tab, Win + Tab shows a timeline of your recent activities and virtual desktops.
- Easily access previously opened apps or files across desktops.
Got a favorite hidden shortcut not listed here? Share it with others and explore new ways to work smarter, not harder!
posted by Monowar Husain @ October 11, 2024
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