32 Secret Combinations on Your Keyboard

Introduction

This tutorial covers 32 secret keyboard combinations that can enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow on both Windows and Mac operating systems. These shortcuts can help you navigate applications more efficiently, manage windows, and access features quickly.

Step 1: Windows Keyboard Shortcuts

Here are some essential keyboard shortcuts for Windows users:

1. Open Start Menu

   • Press the Win key to open the Start Menu. In Windows 8.1, this will open the previous window.

2. Select Notification Area Icon

   • Press Win + B to select the first icon in the Notification Area. Use arrow keys to switch between icons.

3. Access Charm Bar/Cortana

   • Press Win + C to open the Charm Bar in Windows 8 and 8.1. In Windows 10, it opens Cortana (supported languages only).

4. Quick Access to Windows Explorer

   • Press Win + E to open Windows Explorer. In Windows 10, this opens Quick Launch by default.

5. Open Connections Menu

   • Press Win + K to open the Connections menu (available in Windows 8 and 8.1).

6. Restore Last Minimized Window

   • Press Win + Shift + M to restore the last minimized window.

7. Switch Display Modes

   • If using an external monitor or projector, press Win + P to switch between operating modes (Windows 7 and newer).

8. Open Windows Ink Workspace

   • Press Win + W to access Windows Ink Workspace for notes or screenshots.

9. Open Windows Mobile Application Centre

   • Press Win + X to open the Windows Mobile Application Centre (works on mobile computers with Windows Vista and 7).

Step 2: Mac Keyboard Shortcuts

Mac users can also benefit from several useful shortcuts:

1. Delete One Word at a Time

   • Use Option + Delete to remove one word at a time instead of one letter.

2. Hide Open Windows of Current App

   • Press Command + H to quickly hide all open windows of the currently active application.

3. Show Desktop

   • Press Command + F3 to minimize all app windows and view the desktop. Press the keys again to restore apps.

4. Adjust Volume in Smaller Increments

   • Use Option + Shift + Volume Up/Down to adjust audio levels in smaller increments for finer control.

Conclusion

Mastering these keyboard shortcuts can significantly improve your efficiency when using computers, whether you are on Windows or Mac. By incorporating these combinations into your daily routine, you can save time and enhance your productivity. Try out a few shortcuts each day and see how they fit into your workflow!