Computer shortcut keys everyone should know
A handful of shortcuts cover most of what you do on a computer every day: Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V and Ctrl+Z for copy, paste and undo; Alt+Tab to switch windows; Win+D to get to the desktop; and Win+L to lock your PC. Learn those first, then add a few from each section below.
The Windows key is a shortcut goldmine
Most people only use the Windows key to open Start, but combined with other keys it opens almost everything: File Explorer (Win+E), Settings (Win+I), search (Win+S), and the emoji panel (Win+.). Win+Left/Right snaps windows side by side — perfect for comparing two documents.
Screenshots
Win+Shift+S is the most flexible: drag to capture any area, then paste it into WhatsApp Web, email or a document. Win+PrtScn saves the whole screen as a file.
Laptop keyboards
On many laptops, the top-row keys control volume and brightness by default, so F-key shortcuts need the Fn key held down. Most laptops let you swap this with an Fn-lock key or in the BIOS settings.
Using Office or accounting software? See Excel, Word and Tally shortcuts.
Frequently asked questions
How do I take a screenshot in Windows?
Press Win+Shift+S to snip part of the screen, Win+PrtScn to save a full-screen screenshot to Pictures › Screenshots, or Alt+PrtScn to copy just the active window.
How do I lock my computer quickly?
Press Win+L. It's a good habit whenever you step away from your desk, especially in shared offices.
How do I paste something I copied earlier?
Press Win+V to open clipboard history and choose any recent item. Turn clipboard history on the first time Windows asks.
What is the Win key?
It's the key with the Windows logo, usually between Ctrl and Alt on the bottom row of the keyboard.
Last updated: 23 September 2026Suggest an improvement · Report a problem