All Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts
In today's world, where speed and efficiency are a priority, keyboard shortcuts have become indispensable allies. Especially in Windows 11, knowing these shortcuts not only makes everyday tasks easier, but also greatly improves productivity. Did you know that there are combinations that you can use for almost any action within the operating system?
This article brings together in detail all the keyboard shortcuts available in Windows 11, categorized according to their usefulness and sorted so that any user, whether novice or experienced, can get the most out of them. From general functions to specific accesses to manage virtual desktops, file explorers or even accessibility tools, you will find everything you need here.
General shortcuts for the system
Let's start with the most used shortcuts and applicable in any situation within Windows 11. These key combinations are essential for both basic tasks and for managing windows and settings.
Ctrl + C: Copy any selected text, file or item.
Ctrl + X: Cut items and move them to the clipboard.
Ctrl + V: Paste what's on the clipboard.
Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action performed.
Ctrl + Y: Redo a previously undone action.
Alt + Tab: Switch between open applications.
Alt + F4: Close the active window or open the shutdown menu.
Windows + D: Show or hide the desktop.
Windows + L: Lock the PC or switch sessions.
Window control and multitasking management
Windows 11 incorporates several functions to manage windows and perform multiple tasks efficiently. These shortcuts are ideal for organizing your applications and improving the fluidity of your work.
Windows + Up: Maximize the active window.
Windows + Down: Minimize or restore the active window.
Windows + Left: Adjust the active window to the left half of the screen.
Windows + Right: Adjust the active window to the right half of the screen.
Windows + Tab: Open task view to switch between virtual desktops.
Windows + Ctrl + D: Create a new virtual desktop.
Windows + Ctrl + Arrows (Left/Right): Navigate between virtual desktops.
Windows + Ctrl + F4: Close the active virtual desktop.
Shortcuts specific to File Explorer
File Explorer is one of the most used tools in Windows. Below are the shortcuts that can improve your experience when browsing your folders and documents.
Windows + E: Open File Explorer.
Alt + D: Select the address bar.
Ctrl + F or Ctrl + E: Open the search box.
Ctrl + Shift + N: Create a new folder.
Alt + Enter: Open the properties of the selected file or folder.
F11: Maximize or minimize the active window.
Taskbar and app shortcuts
The taskbar and the apps pinned to it can be managed more easily with these key combinations.
Shift + Click an app: Open a new instance of the app.
Ctrl + Shift + Click an app: Open an app with administrator privileges.
Windows + Number: Open the pinned app in the corresponding position on the taskbar.
Windows + T: Navigate between open apps on the taskbar.
Accessibility tools and screenshots
Windows 11 also includes several shortcuts designed to improve accessibility and make it easier to capture visual information.
Windows + U: Open the Ease of Access Center.
Windows + Plus (+): Activate Magnifier and zoom in.
Windows + Minus (-): Zoom out using the magnifier.
Windows + Shift + S: Open the snipping tool to take partial screenshots.
Windows + PrtSc: Capture the entire screen and automatically save to the pictures folder.
Touchpad gestures on laptops
If you use a laptop running Windows 11, touchpad gestures can increase your efficiency when navigating the operating system.
Pinch in/out: Zoom in or out.
Three-finger swipe up: Open task view.
Three-finger swipe down: Show desktop.
Four-finger swipe: Switch between virtual desktops.
Windows 11 offers a wealth of keyboard shortcuts to streamline our tasks, from basic actions to gestures specific to virtual desktops and touchpads. Taking advantage of these combinations not only improves our productivity, but also makes our day-to-day lives more efficient. Now that you know all these tricks, it's time to put them into practice!