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Keyboard shortcuts

30 Apr 2013

Using keyboard shortcuts on your computer can sometimes be a lot faster than going through the menu and scrolling down to the desired option.

Shortcuts will differ depending on the type of computer, whether it’s an Apple or a PC, and what operating system you use. Although generally, Microsoft Windows shortcuts are the same across all versions and the same goes for different Apple software.

Windows

If you have a PC and it has Windows software on it, there are plenty of shortcuts that you can use to make your life easier. 

  • Need some help? Just hit F1. The menu will open for you to search or browse topics.
  • Hitting ALT and TAB together will allow you to switch between any programs that you have open.            
  • To quit a program that you no longer want open, hold down ALT and F4 together.
  • To lock your computer once you’re done, you can either press the Windows Logo and L together or CTL, ALT and delete. 

If you’re using a particular program within Microsoft such as Word, Excel or PowerPoint, there are several keyboard shortcuts you can use.

  • CTL and C will copy any highlighted text or pictures.
  • CTL and X will copy and cut it, meaning it will disappear.
  • CTL and V will paste anything that you’ve copied to the spot where your curser currently is.
  • To underdo the last action you made, whether it’s typing, pasting or changing font, just press down CTL and Z together.
  • CTL and B will make your text bold.
  • CTL and U will underline any text that you’ve highlighted.
  • CTL and I will italicise the highlight copy.

Apple

The keyboard shortcuts for the Apple operating systems are very similar to the Windows operating system. However, rather than holding down the CTL key, generally you need to hold down the COMMAND key, situated right next to your space bar.

It will either have this symbol next to it ⌘ or the Apple logo .

  • To open Mac Help, press down Command, Shift and Question Mark at the same time.
  • To switch between windows that are open, hold down Command and TAB together.
  • Hold down Command and Q to quit a program that you no longer require. Remember, this doesn’t just close the screen you’re working in; it shuts down the entire program.
  • If you’re in your Finder window, and you’d like to open a second one to find something else, hold down Command and N. This applies as well in most word programs and internet platforms.

Copy, cut, paste, bold, underline and italics work the same as with Windows, however as explained above, rather than holding down CTL, hold down the Command key. 

Of course, there are loads of other keyboard shortcuts that you can learn about. Head to the Microsoft website for more or if you have a Mac, the Apple website provides a complete list of handy hints.