Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
The Windows key is the one that separates a fast session from a slow one: it drives snapping, virtual desktops, screen capture, and search. Everything below is a system binding, so it works regardless of which application has focus.
15 shortcuts across 3 groups
| Keys | Action |
|---|---|
| Ctrl + C | Copy the selection |
| Ctrl + V | Paste from the clipboard |
| Ctrl + Z | Undo the last action |
| Ctrl + Y | Redo the last action |
| Ctrl + A | Select all |
| Keys | Action |
|---|---|
| Alt + Tab | Switch between open windows |
| Win + D | Show or hide the desktop |
| Win + Left / Right | Snap the window to a side |
| Win + Tab | Open Task View |
| Win + Ctrl + D | Add a virtual desktop |
| Keys | Action |
|---|---|
| Win | Open the Start menu |
| Win + E | Open File Explorer |
| Win + Shift + S | Capture part of the screen |
| Win + L | Lock the computer |
| Ctrl + Shift + Esc | Open Task Manager |
Source: Microsoft Support, keyboard shortcuts in Windows. Bindings listed for Windows. The Windows version these bindings were checked against is not established, so treat any binding that does not work as a version difference and check the vendor documentation linked above. 15 shortcuts.
Getting these into muscle memory
A cheat sheet only helps if the bindings move from the page into your hands. The fastest way is to pick two or three shortcuts from a single group above, force yourself to use them for a few days even when the mouse feels quicker, and only then add more. Trying to memorize an entire sheet at once rarely sticks, because none of the bindings get enough repetition to become automatic.
The groups here are ordered by how often you reach for them. Openers and palettes come first because they unlock everything else, then editing and navigation, which is where most of a session is spent. Keep this page open in a tab while you learn, and it will quietly work its way out of your sight and into your fingers.