Computer Shortcut Keys - Complete Study Notes
This study material has been prepared according to the syllabus of various competitive and computer skill examinations. It includes the most important and exam-oriented shortcut keys related to Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
1. Basic Shortcut Keys
These shortcut keys work similarly across almost all programs and operating systems. They are most frequently used in daily computer operations:
Ctrl + C: To copy the selected text or item.
Ctrl + V: To paste the copied or cut item.
Ctrl + X: To cut the selected text or item.
Ctrl + A: To select all contents of a page or window.
Key Point
Basic shortcuts like Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V, and Ctrl+X form the foundation of clipboard management and are supported in virtually every Graphical User Interface (GUI).
2. Microsoft Windows Shortcut Keys
The following keys are used in the Windows operating system to make navigation and file management faster:
Alt + Tab: To switch between open applications.
Alt + F4: To close the currently open program or window.
F2: To rename the selected icon or file.
F5: To refresh the current window or web page.
3. Windows Logo Key (WINKEY) Shortcuts
Quick access to system tools is achieved by pressing other buttons along with the Windows key (WINKEY) on the keyboard:
WINKEY + D: To minimize all open windows and directly bring up the desktop.
WINKEY + E: To open File Explorer (Microsoft Explorer).
WINKEY + L: To instantly lock the computer or laptop.
WINKEY + R: To open the Run dialog box.
Key Point
Using WINKEY + L is crucial for security, especially when users step away from their computer.
4. Microsoft Word Shortcut Keys
These shortcuts are prominent in MS Word for document editing, formatting, and text styling:
Ctrl + B: To bold the selected text.
Ctrl + I: To italicize the selected text.
Ctrl + U: To underline the selected text.
Ctrl + Z / Ctrl + Y: To Undo and Redo the last action, respectively.
Ctrl + F: To open the Find box to search for a word in the document.
5. Microsoft Excel Shortcut Keys
Excel shortcuts to make spreadsheet management, data entry, and formula calculations easier:
F2: To edit the selected cell.
Alt + =: To automatically create an auto-sum formula for all the cells above.
Ctrl + ;: To enter the current date.
Ctrl + Shift + ;: To enter the current time.
F11: To create a new chart from selected data.
6. Microsoft Outlook Shortcut Keys
Outlook shortcuts for email management, sending messages, and handling contacts:
Alt + S: To send the composed email.
Ctrl + N: To create a new email.
Ctrl + R: To reply to a received email.
Ctrl + F: To forward an email.
Key Point
In Microsoft Outlook, the Alt + S shortcut is the most commonly used command to send an email directly from the message window.