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Tech Tips: Windows Key
In a previous Tech Tips column we looked at keyboard shortcuts. They save time, and provide an alternative way to accomplish common tasks in Windows. The Windows Key is a special tool in the world of Windows keyboard shortcuts. It is one of the most powerful keys on the keyboard, but often goes unused.
Windows Key
On the left side of the bottom row of most P.C. keyboards today is the Windows key. It’s usually found between the Ctrl and Alt keys to the left of the spacebar, and you can identify it by the flying Window logo. Tap the Windows key and you will open your start menu. You can then navigate through the menu with your cursor keys and press “Enter” to open a selection. If you tapped the windows key and opened the start menu by mistake just tap it again to close the menu. That’s a pretty handy feature. The real power of the Windows key, however, is found in pressing it simultaneously with other keys. Here are a few favorite combinations:
Windows Key + R |
Opens the “Run” command line |
Windows Key + D |
Minimizes all open applications and displays the desktop. Press it again to bring all of your running applications back up on your display. |
Windows Key + E |
Opens the Windows Explorer |
Windows Key + L |
“Locks” the Computer (Windows XP and above) |
Windows Key + Pause/Break |
Displays System Properties |
Windows Key + F |
Search for files/folders |
Your results may vary, depending upon your operating system and how it has been customized, but most of these commands will work as indicated on recent versions of Microsoft Windows. Review your Operating System documentation for additional Windows Key tips, and give these shortcuts a try to see how much faster you can accomplish common tasks. As a matter of fact, I’m now going to tap the Windows Key, then tap “U” a couple of times to shut off my computer and do something else with the time I saved.
This article also appears in the Fall 2003 issue of News from a Light in the Valley.