
Complete Guide to Computer Shortcut Keys

Computer shortcut keys are essential for improving productivity, saving time, and making your work smoother. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, knowing these shortcuts can significantly enhance your computing experience. In this complete guide, we provide a comprehensive list of shortcut keys for Windows, Mac, and common applications like Microsoft Word, Excel, and browsers. Plus, you can download a free PDF version for offline use.
What Are Shortcut Keys?
Shortcut keys are key combinations that allow you to perform tasks quickly without using a mouse. They can help you:
- Save time while working
- Navigate programs efficiently
- Improve workflow in professional tasks
- Perform complex commands with a single keystroke
Common Windows Shortcut Keys
Here is a list of widely used Windows shortcut keys:
| Shortcut | Function |
|---|---|
| Ctrl + C | Copy selected item |
| Ctrl + X | Cut selected item |
| Ctrl + V | Paste copied item |
| Ctrl + Z | Undo last action |
| Ctrl + Y | Redo last action |
| Ctrl + A | Select all items |
| Alt + Tab | Switch between open applications |
| Ctrl + S | Save current document |
| Ctrl + P | Print current page/document |
| Windows + L | Lock your computer |
| Windows + D | Show or hide desktop |
| Windows + E | Open File Explorer |
| Ctrl + Shift + Esc | Open Task Manager |
Mac Shortcut Keys
Mac users can use the following shortcuts:
| Shortcut | Function |
|---|---|
| Command + C | Copy selected item |
| Command + X | Cut selected item |
| Command + V | Paste copied item |
| Command + Z | Undo last action |
| Command + Shift + Z | Redo last action |
| Command + A | Select all items |
| Command + Tab | Switch between open applications |
| Command + S | Save current document |
| Command + P | Print current page/document |
| Command + Option + Esc | Force quit an application |
| Command + Space | Open Spotlight search |
Microsoft Word Shortcut Keys
Boost your productivity in Microsoft Word with these shortcuts:
| Shortcut | Function |
|---|---|
| Ctrl + B | Bold text |
| Ctrl + I | Italicize text |
| Ctrl + U | Underline text |
| Ctrl + F | Find text |
| Ctrl + H | Replace text |
| Ctrl + Shift + L | Apply bullet points |
| Ctrl + Shift + > | Increase font size |
| Ctrl + Shift + < | Decrease font size |
Microsoft Excel Shortcut Keys
Excel shortcut keys help you navigate spreadsheets faster:
| Shortcut | Function |
|---|---|
| Ctrl + C | Copy cell content |
| Ctrl + V | Paste cell content |
| Ctrl + X | Cut cell content |
| Ctrl + Z | Undo last action |
| Ctrl + Y | Redo last action |
| Ctrl + Arrow Key | Move to edge of data region |
| Ctrl + Shift + L | Apply or remove filters |
| F2 | Edit selected cell |
Browser Shortcut Keys
Make your web browsing faster with these shortcuts:
| Shortcut | Function |
|---|---|
| Ctrl + T | Open new tab |
| Ctrl + W | Close current tab |
| Ctrl + Shift + T | Reopen last closed tab |
| Ctrl + Tab | Switch to next tab |
| Ctrl + Shift + Tab | Switch to previous tab |
| Ctrl + D | Bookmark current page |
| Ctrl + L | Focus on address bar |
| F5 | Refresh page |
Free PDF Download of Shortcut Keys
To make it easier for you, we have compiled all these shortcut keys into a free PDF that you can download and keep handy for quick reference.
Tip: Keep this PDF near your workspace and practice using these shortcuts daily. You’ll notice a huge improvement in your efficiency in just a few weeks!
Tips to Remember Shortcut Keys
- Start with a few essential shortcuts and gradually add more.
- Use sticky notes or desktop reminders for key shortcuts.
- Practice daily to build muscle memory.
- Customize shortcuts in applications like Word, Excel, or Photoshop if possible.
Conclusion
Shortcut keys are small tools with huge impact. By learning and practicing them, you can save time, reduce mouse usage, and work more efficiently across all platforms and software. Download the free PDF and start improving your productivity today!


