Keyboard Shortcuts Featuring the Windows Key

Keyboard shortcuts have been utilized for a long time to move things along faster. In 1994, around the time that Windows 95 was released, Microsoft created the new keyboard layout that incorporated the brand-new Windows key (or Win Key). When pressed, the Windows Key would instantly open the start menu, which debuted in the software.

Things have come a long way since 1994, but the Win Key still enhances the typical PC keyboard. Listed below is a list of some of the shortcuts possible with the Windows Key inside Microsoft’s latest OS, Windows 10.

Shortcuts Featuring the Win Key

Basic Functions

• Win Key - Pressing the Windows Key alone permits you to open and close the Start Menu
• Win Key + Up - Maximize window
• Win Key + Down - Minimize window
• Win Key + Left - Orient window to left side of screen
• Win Key + Right - Orient window to right side of screen
• Win Key + Home - Minimize all but active window
• Win Key + Shift + Left/Right - Move an open window/application from one monitor to another
• Win Key + M - This will minimize all windows
  • WinKey + Shift + M - This will restore all minimized windows
• Win Key + L - Lock your computer (this also allows you to switch users)
• Win Key + Tab - Open task view
• Win Key + E - Opens File Explorer
• Win Key + R - Open the Run menu
• Win Key + D - Hide/display the desktop

Taskbar Functions

• WinKey + T - Cycle through the programs currently in your Taskbar
• WinKey + Number - Start pinned Taskbar program that corresponds to the number
• Shift + WinKey + Number - Opens a new instance of the corresponding Taskbar program

Desktop Functions

• Win Key + Ctrl + D - Start a new virtual desktop
• Win Key + Ctrl + Left/Right - Cycle through your available desktops
• Win Key + Ctrl + F4 - Close the current desktop

We think you’ll find this list helpful in your attempts to navigate Windows 10. For more great tips and tricks subscribe to our Macro Systems' blog.