Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsWindows 10 keyboard shortcuts can open system tools, move and arrange windows, navigate File Explorer, and speed up common editing tasks. Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, but that does not mean its shortcuts stopped working. This guide focuses on Windows 10 behavior and notes when a shortcut depends on an app, setting, keyboard, or Windows build. Microsoft’s keyboard guide has further details.
20 useful Windows 10 shortcuts
In the tables below, Win means the Windows logo key. A plus sign means press the keys together; it is not a key to press itself. App shortcuts are common conventions, not guaranteed commands: the active program can change or ignore them.
| Shortcut | What it does |
|---|---|
Ctrl+C |
Copy selected text or an item in many apps |
Ctrl+X |
Cut selected text or an item in many apps |
Ctrl+V |
Paste in many apps |
Ctrl+A |
Select all in the active field or app |
Ctrl+Z |
Undo in apps that support it |
Ctrl+Y |
Redo or repeat an action in some apps |
Alt+Tab |
Switch between open apps |
Alt+F4 |
Close the active app or window |
Win+D |
Show or hide the desktop |
Win+E |
Open File Explorer |
Win+I |
Open Settings |
Win+L |
Lock the PC |
Win+R |
Open Run |
Win+Shift+S |
Capture a selected screen region to the clipboard |
Win+V |
Open Clipboard history after it has been enabled |
Win+Left/Right Arrow |
Snap the active window to a side of the screen |
Win+Tab |
Open Task View |
Win+Ctrl+D |
Create a virtual desktop |
Ctrl+Shift+Esc |
Open Task Manager |
Win+S |
Open Search |
Microsoft’s Windows shortcut reference covers Windows 10 and Windows 11 together. The entries below are selected for Windows 10; newer Windows-only features are not included.
Common editing and navigation shortcuts
These combinations work in many text fields and document apps, but the result depends on the program and where the cursor or selection is.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
| Shortcut | Typical action |
|---|---|
Ctrl+N |
Create a new document, window, or item |
Ctrl+O |
Open a file |
Ctrl+S |
Save |
Ctrl+P |
|
Ctrl+F |
Find text or content |
F1 |
Open Help, when supported by the app |
Shift+Arrow key |
Extend a selection by character, line, or item |
Ctrl+Arrow key |
Move by word or logical section in many text fields |
Ctrl+Shift+Arrow key |
Select by word or logical section in many text fields |
Home / End |
Move to the beginning or end of a line or field |
Ctrl+Home / Ctrl+End |
Move to the beginning or end of a document or buffer |
Shift+Home / Shift+End |
Select to the beginning or end of a line |
Ctrl+Backspace / Ctrl+Delete |
Delete the previous or next word in many text fields |
If a shortcut appears to do nothing, check whether the app supports it and whether the intended text field has focus. Ctrl+Y, for example, is not a universal redo command.
Windows-key shortcuts for system tools and controls
The Windows logo key is commonly on the bottom row of a full-size keyboard. On some compact keyboards it shares a function with Fn; manufacturer software may also disable it.
| Shortcut | Windows 10 action |
|---|---|
Win |
Open Start |
Win+A |
Open Action Center |
Win+E |
Open File Explorer |
Win+G |
Open Xbox Game Bar, where available and enabled |
Win+H |
Start voice dictation where supported |
Win+I |
Open Settings |
Win+K |
Open Connect for wireless displays or devices, depending on configuration |
Win+L |
Lock the PC; it does not sign you out |
Win+M |
Minimize all windows |
Win+P |
Open projection and display-mode options |
Win+R |
Open Run |
Win+S |
Open Search |
Win+U |
Open Accessibility settings |
Win+X |
Open the Quick Link menu; entries can vary |
Win+. or Win+; |
Open the emoji panel |
Win+Spacebar |
Switch input language or keyboard layout |
Win+Comma |
Temporarily peek at the desktop while held |
Win+Pause |
Open system information or the corresponding system page, depending on build |
Do not assume Win+C, Win+W, Win+Z, or Win+J has one consistent Windows 10 meaning: these combinations are version- or feature-dependent, and some are associated with Windows 11 features.
Rank #2
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Manage windows and switch between tasks
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
Alt+Tab |
Show open apps; release Alt with the desired app highlighted to switch to it |
Alt+Shift+Tab |
Cycle backward through open apps |
Win+Tab |
Open Task View |
Win+Left/Right Arrow |
Snap the active window to the left or right |
Win+Up Arrow |
Maximize the active window |
Win+Down Arrow |
Restore or minimize the active window, depending on its state |
Win+Shift+Left/Right Arrow |
Move the active window to the monitor on the left or right |
Win+Shift+Up Arrow |
Stretch or maximize the window vertically |
Win+Home |
Minimize or restore inactive windows |
Win+Shift+M |
Restore windows minimized with Win+M |
Alt+Spacebar |
Open the active window’s system menu |
Ctrl+Shift+Esc |
Open Task Manager directly |
Ctrl+Alt+Delete |
Open the Windows Security screen |
Snap results depend on the active window’s state, monitor setup, and Snap settings. Microsoft explains multitasking and snapping in Windows; settings may vary by build.
Use virtual desktops
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
Win+Tab |
Open Task View |
Win+Ctrl+D |
Create a virtual desktop |
Win+Ctrl+Right Arrow |
Switch to the desktop on the right |
Win+Ctrl+Left Arrow |
Switch to the desktop on the left |
Win+Ctrl+F4 |
Close the current virtual desktop |
Closing a virtual desktop normally moves its open app windows to another desktop rather than closing those apps. The available behavior can differ by Windows build. See Microsoft’s shortcut reference for virtual desktops.
Navigate File Explorer
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
Win+E |
Open File Explorer |
Ctrl+N |
Open a new File Explorer window |
Ctrl+W |
Close the active File Explorer window |
Ctrl+Shift+N |
Create a new folder |
Alt+Left Arrow / Alt+Right Arrow |
Go back or forward |
Alt+Up Arrow |
Go up one folder level |
F2 |
Rename the selected item |
F5 |
Refresh |
Delete |
Move the selected item to the Recycle Bin |
Shift+Delete |
Permanently delete the selected item, usually bypassing the Recycle Bin |
Ctrl+L or Alt+D |
Select the address bar |
Ctrl+E or Ctrl+F |
Focus search, depending on context |
Alt+Enter |
Open Properties for the selected item |
Shift+F10 |
Open the selected item’s context menu |
Ctrl+Shift+E |
Expand the navigation tree to the selected folder, where supported |
Focus matters: a shortcut may act on the selected file, folder, navigation pane, or address bar. Use Shift+Delete only when you intend to bypass the Recycle Bin. Microsoft’s File Explorer guide covers its basic use.
Rank #3
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
Take screenshots
| Shortcut | Result |
|---|---|
PrtScn |
Copies the full screen to the clipboard on supported systems |
Alt+PrtScn |
Copies the active window to the clipboard on many configurations |
Win+PrtScn |
Captures the full screen and saves it in PicturesScreenshots |
Win+Shift+S |
Opens screen snipping; a selected capture is copied to the clipboard |
Fn+Win+Spacebar |
Possible Print Screen alternative on devices without a PrtScn key; hardware-dependent |
For a region capture, press Win+Shift+S, choose a mode if offered, and select the area. Paste the result with Ctrl+V into an editor, message, or document; use the notification or Snipping Tool to annotate or save it. Clipboard capture is not the same as automatically saving a screenshot file. Microsoft documents the Print Screen shortcut and screenshot location.
On laptops, the key may be labeled PrtSc, PrtScn, or Print Scr, and may need Fn. Full-screen apps can also behave differently.
Open Clipboard history with Win+V
Clipboard history keeps multiple copied items rather than only the most recent clipboard entry. It may be off until enabled.
Rank #4
- The Lenovo 300 USB keyboard offers an intuitive and comfortable island key design with 2 5 zone layout including separate number pad
- This full-size keyboard includes concaved key caps fitted for your fingertips
- Spill resistant keys with a board drain help keep your PC keyboard protected and keep you productive
- The complete ergonomic design includes an adjustable tilt to improve your typing comfort
- OS independent – This convenient computer keyboard works with laptops desktops and any computer with a USB port
- Press
Win+V. - Select Turn on if prompted.
- Press
Win+Vagain to open the panel, then select an item to paste it. - Pin an item only if you want to keep it available for reuse.
You can also enable it in Settings > System > Clipboard. Organization policy may restrict the feature. Clipboard history can expose copied passwords, recovery codes, or confidential content; cloud synchronization is optional and has privacy implications. See Microsoft’s Clipboard history instructions.
Taskbar shortcuts
| Shortcut or action | Typical result |
|---|---|
Win+1 through Win+9 |
Open or switch to the pinned taskbar app in that position |
Win+Shift+1 through Win+Shift+9 |
Open a new instance where the app supports it |
Win+Ctrl+1 through Win+Ctrl+9 |
Switch to the last active window for that pinned app, where supported |
Win+T |
Focus the taskbar and cycle through its items |
Shift+click a taskbar button |
Open another instance where supported |
Ctrl+Shift+click a taskbar button |
Launch as administrator, subject to permissions |
Shift+right-click a taskbar button |
Open the app’s window menu |
Number keys follow the order of pinned taskbar applications, and results can vary by app. Microsoft lists these in its Windows keyboard shortcuts reference.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Command Prompt shortcuts
These apply to Command Prompt’s editing and selection behavior, not necessarily to PowerShell, Windows Terminal, or every embedded terminal. Selection state affects some commands.
Best Value
- A plug-and-play USB connection with Low-profile keys give you a quiet, comfortable typing experience
- Simple Wired USB Connection,You will enjoy a comfortable and quiet typing experience
- The keyboard for business and office working is the budget-friendly keyboard that is built for longer use
- Low profile keys for a more comfortable and quiet keystroke, desktop-centric design, splash resistant
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
Ctrl+C or Ctrl+Insert |
Copy selected text |
Ctrl+V or Shift+Insert |
Paste |
Ctrl+M |
Enter Mark mode |
Alt+selection key |
Begin block selection |
| Arrow keys | Move the cursor or selection |
Page Up / Page Down |
Move through the buffer |
Ctrl+Up Arrow / Ctrl+Down Arrow |
Move up or down through output history |
Ctrl+Home / Ctrl+End |
Move to the beginning or end of the buffer in Mark mode |
For more Windows key-combination context, consult Microsoft’s Windows shortcut list.
Accessibility keyboard shortcuts
Windows 10 includes shortcut controls for magnification, narration, color filters, speech, and alternative input. Feature availability and names can vary by device and Windows release.
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
Win+Plus |
Turn on Magnifier or zoom in |
Win+Minus |
Zoom out with Magnifier |
Win+Esc |
Close Magnifier |
Win+Ctrl+M |
Open Magnifier settings |
Ctrl+Alt+I |
Invert colors while using Magnifier |
Win+Ctrl+C |
Toggle color filters |
Win+U |
Open Accessibility settings |
Win+Ctrl+O |
Open the On-Screen Keyboard |
Win+Ctrl+Enter |
Start or stop Narrator |
Left Alt+Left Shift+Num Lock |
Toggle Mouse Keys |
Press Shift five times |
Toggle Sticky Keys |
Hold Num Lock for five seconds |
Toggle Toggle Keys |
Win+Ctrl+S |
Start Windows Speech Recognition where available |
Win+H |
Open dictation where supported |
Repeated key presses can trigger Sticky Keys or Filter Keys prompts. Narrator has many additional commands, so use Microsoft’s Narrator keyboard command reference for a detailed list. Microsoft also provides a wider accessibility shortcut guide.
When a Windows 10 shortcut does not work
- Click the intended app or text field first so it has focus.
- Check whether the active application uses a different command or overrides the shortcut.
- Try it in another built-in app to determine whether the issue is app-specific.
- On a laptop, check whether the key requires
Fnor a different function-row mode. - Confirm the keyboard layout and input language, especially for punctuation-key combinations.
- If the Windows key fails, check gaming mode or manufacturer keyboard software that may disable it.
- Restart the affected app and retry.
- For
Win+V, enable Clipboard history if Windows prompts you. - Check Settings for the relevant accessibility or snapping feature if its shortcut depends on configuration.
- For an elevated app, account for permission boundaries; a normal utility may not affect an administrator-level window.
An on-screen keyboard can help distinguish a physical-key problem from an app or configuration issue. Different keyboard layouts can also move punctuation keys or change how they are interpreted.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCreate custom shortcuts with PowerToys
Microsoft PowerToys is a free, open-source utility collection. Its Keyboard Manager can remap keys or shortcuts for a preferred workflow. Microsoft provides an overview of PowerToys and the Keyboard Manager setup and limitations.
- Install and open PowerToys.
- Open PowerToys Settings > Keyboard Manager.
- Select Remap a key or Remap a shortcut.
- Select Add key remapping or Add shortcut remapping.
- Choose the input key or shortcut and the output key, shortcut, text sequence, application, or URI.
- Confirm with OK or apply the mapping.
PowerToys must remain running in the background for mappings to work. Win+L and Ctrl+Alt+Delete are reserved and cannot be remapped; the Fn key usually cannot be remapped either. Keyboard Manager does not work on password or sign-in screens, may need administrator mode to interact with elevated applications, and can interfere with games or performance. Remapping a modifier can disrupt other shortcuts, and a mapping can leave the original key without its former function if you do not create a reverse mapping. It does not currently provide separate mappings for different physical keyboards. See Microsoft’s PowerToys administrator-mode guidance.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
