12 Windows Keyboard Shortcuts You're Probably Not Using
, by Rukxi Team, 8 min reading time
Go beyond copy and paste with clipboard history, voice typing, Snap Layouts, virtual desktops and more. Learn twelve useful shortcuts and build them into your daily routine.
12 Windows keyboard shortcuts you're probably not using
Do you use your keyboard only for typing, copying, and pasting? Your Windows PC has plenty of shortcuts that can make everyday tasks faster and easier. Here are 12 useful Windows keyboard shortcuts you might not be using yet.
Win+V
Access your clipboard history.
Don't memorize all 12 in one day. Start with two or three that match your daily tasks. Practise them while working on real tasks until they become familiar, then gradually add more.
Cheat sheet
All 12 at a glance
Bookmark or print this table, then read on for when to use each one.
| Shortcut | What it does |
|---|---|
| Win+V | Access your clipboard history |
| Win+H | Type without using the keyboard (voice typing) |
| Win+. | Open the emoji and symbols panel |
| Win+Z | Arrange windows with Snap Layouts |
| Win+Ctrl+D | Create a separate virtual desktop |
| Win+Ctrl+←/→ | Switch desktops quickly |
| Alt+Space | Open a window's system menu |
| Alt+P | Preview files in File Explorer |
| Ctrl+Shift+N | Create a new folder instantly |
| Win+Shift+←/→ | Move windows between monitors |
| Win+X | Open the Quick Link menu |
| Win+Ctrl+Q | Open Quick Assist |
The 12 Shortcuts
What each shortcut does, and when to reach for it
Typing & Clipboard
1
Access Your Clipboard History
Win+V
Have you ever copied something important, copied another item, and then lost the first one? Clipboard history can help you avoid that problem. If this is your first time using it, Windows may ask you to turn it on.
Use it for: Reusing copied information without switching back and forth between documents.
2
Type Without Using the Keyboard
Win+H
Need to write a long message or take quick notes? Press this to open Windows voice typing. You can speak naturally, and Windows will convert your speech into text.
Use it for: Drafting emails, preparing notes, or entering text while your hands are busy.
3
Open the Emoji and Symbols Panel
Win+.
Sometimes a message needs a symbol, special character, or emoji that isn't easy to find. Press the Windows key and full stop to open the emoji and symbols panel.
Use it for: Writing emails, social posts, or adding characters without searching online.
Window & Desktop Management
4
Arrange Windows with Snap Layouts
Win+Z
Working with multiple windows can quickly clutter your screen. On supported Windows 11 systems, this opens Snap Layouts, allowing you to choose a layout for arranging open applications.
Use it for: Multitasking, studying, comparing information, and managing work across apps.
5
Create a Separate Desktop
Win+Ctrl+D
Do you want to keep your work separate from personal browsing? Create a new virtual desktop to organise different tasks across separate desktops instead of keeping every application in one crowded workspace.
Use it for: Keeping work documents on one desktop and study materials on another.
6
Switch Desktops Quickly
Win+Ctrl+←/→
After creating multiple virtual desktops, you don't need to open Task View every time. Press this combination to move between available desktops instantly.
Use it for: Handling several projects or separating different types of work.
7
Open a Window's System Menu
Alt+Space
Some useful window controls are hidden in menus. Press this to open the system menu for the active window, where options may include moving, resizing, minimising, or maximising it.
Use it for: Positioning a window that is difficult to reach with your mouse.
Files & System Tools
8
Preview Files in File Explorer
Alt+P
Opening every file individually can waste time. In Windows File Explorer, press this to show or hide the Preview pane. Select a supported file to view its contents without opening it.
Use it for: Identifying the right document when several files have similar names.
9
Create a New Folder Instantly
Ctrl+Shift+N
When organising downloaded files or project materials, creating folders one at a time can feel repetitive. In File Explorer, press this to create a new folder in the current location.
Use it for: Organising files by project, subject, client, or month.
10
Move Windows Between Monitors
Win+Shift+←/→
If you use two monitors, dragging windows across the screens can become repetitive. Press this to move the active window to the monitor on the corresponding side.
Use it for: Organising your workspace without reaching for the mouse.
11
Open the Quick Link Menu
Win+X
Looking for useful Windows system tools? This opens the Quick Link menu, providing shortcuts to features like Device Manager, Disk Management, Power Options, and Terminal.
Use it for: Troubleshooting or adjusting your PC's settings. Be careful when changing system settings.
12
Open Quick Assist
Win+Ctrl+Q
Sometimes explaining a computer problem over the phone isn't enough. This opens Quick Assist, a tool that can help someone provide remote assistance.
Use it for: Getting help from a trusted colleague, family member, or IT support. Only accept assistance from people you trust.
Make it stick
How to build better keyboard habits
You don't need to memorise all 12 shortcuts in one day. Start with two or three that match your daily tasks, such as clipboard history, folder creation, or window arrangement. Practise them while working on real tasks until they become familiar.
Remember that some shortcuts depend on your Windows version, settings, hardware, or the application you're using. If one doesn't work as expected, check the relevant Windows documentation before assuming your keyboard or computer is faulty.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Do these keyboard shortcuts work on Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Many of them work on both versions, but some features, including Snap Layouts, may be limited to Windows 11 or depend on the system configuration. Check the shortcut's requirements if it doesn't work on your PC.
Can keyboard shortcuts improve productivity?
Yes. They can reduce repeated mouse movements, speed up common tasks, and make it easier to manage files, windows, and applications. The benefits depend on which shortcuts you use and how often you perform those tasks.
Why isn't a keyboard shortcut working on my computer?
The shortcut may depend on your Windows version, settings, keyboard layout, hardware, or active application. Some features also need to be enabled before use. Check the relevant settings and confirm that you're pressing the correct key combination.
Where can I find more Windows keyboard shortcuts?
You can explore Microsoft's official guide to keyboard shortcuts in Windows. It includes shortcuts for text editing, File Explorer, virtual desktops, accessibility, and other Windows features.
Final thoughts
Keyboard shortcuts are simple tools that can make your computer easier to use. From retrieving copied content to managing multiple desktops, the right combinations can help you work more comfortably and spend less time on repetitive actions. Try a few of these shortcuts during your daily routine and keep practising the ones you find useful.
Pick two shortcuts today.
Use them all week, then add one more. For more practical technology tips, computer guidance, and IT solutions, visit IT Gallery.
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