How to Use Keyboard Commands Instead of Menu Commands

Many computer commands can be accomplished by using keyboard commands instead of mouse commands. Using the keyboard is a much faster method once you memorize the commands. These instructions should work for most operating systems and applications.

Finding Keyboard Commands

Step 1 To find a complete list of keyboard commands, use the online help on your computer. Search for "keyboard shortcuts."

Step 2 Many software applications, such as Microsoft Office, show the keyboard commands next to their equivalent menu commands. The keyboard commands appear to the right of the menu commands. For example, In Microsoft Word, the Save command has Ctrl+S to the right. Ctrl+S is the keyboard command.

Using Keyboard Commands

Step 1 To use a keyboard command, hold down the first key listed, then press the second key. In Windows, the first key is usually Control. On the Macintosh, the first key is usually Command (the propeller-shaped key to the left of the Option key). Some common keyboard commands follow.

Step 2 To copy selections, press Control and C (commonly abbreviated Ctrl+C) in Windows. On a Macintosh, press Command and C (commonly abbreviated Command-C). Your selected material will be copied into the Clipboard.

Step 3 To paste material from the Clipboard, use Ctrl+V in Windows and Command-V on a Macintosh.

Step 4 To cut selected material, use Ctrl+X in Windows and Command-X on the Macintosh.

Step 5 To print the active file, use Ctrl+P in Windows and Command-P on the Macintosh.

Step 6 To save a file, use Ctrl+S in Windows and Command-S on the Macintosh.

Step 7 To select an entire document, use Ctrl+A in Windows and Command-A on the Macintosh.

Step 8 To use the Undo command, press Ctrl+Z in Windows and Command-Z on the Macintosh.

Step 9 To restart your system without shutting down completely, use the Control, Alt, and Delete keys simultaneously in Windows. On a Macintosh, press the Power key.

Step 10 To display the Start menu in Windows, use Ctrl+Escape.

Step 11 To switch to another application in Windows, hold down the Alt key while repeatedly pressing Tab.