Windows Keyboard Shortcuts — Full List
The complete reference guide for Windows 11 and Windows 10 power users. Master screen snapping, virtual desktop switching, clipboard history, and instant system diagnostics with interactive visual key feedback.
Lock your PC immediately and display login lock screen
Tip: Essential security habit whenever stepping away from your desk.
Open the Run command dialog box
Tip: Type cmd, regedit, or excel to launch programs directly.
Open Windows Settings application
Open Task Manager directly without going through Ctrl+Alt+Del
Tip: Quickest way to identify and end frozen processes.
Open Clipboard History panel with multiple copied items
Tip: Stores multiple text snippets and screenshots for pasting later.
Launch Snipping Tool rectangle region screen capture
Tip: Copies region directly to clipboard for immediate Ctrl+V paste.
Minimize all open windows to show desktop (toggle)
Tip: Press again to restore all minimized windows to original positions.
Snap active window to left half of screen
Tip: Follow with Win+Up to snap into top-left quarter quadrant.
Snap active window to right half of screen
Maximize current active window to full monitor display
Minimize or un-maximize current window
Switch between running applications and browser windows
Close the active window or document tab
Open Task View showing all open windows and virtual desktops
Create a brand new virtual desktop space
Tip: Organize work into separate project spaces without clutter.
Switch to the virtual desktop on the right
Switch to the virtual desktop on the left
Close the current active virtual desktop
Launch File Explorer window
Create a new folder in current directory
Rename the highlighted file or folder
Permanently delete item bypassing the Recycle Bin
Tip: Bypasses Recycle Bin for immediate disk space recovery.
Open file Properties dialog box for highlighted item
Frequently Asked Questions about Windows OS Shortcuts
How do I access clipboard history in Windows 11 and 10?
Press Win + V. This opens the Windows Clipboard History panel, allowing you to paste any of your last 25 copied text snippets, HTML fragments, or screenshots, and pin frequently used items.
What is the fastest shortcut to take a cropped screenshot?
Press Win + Shift + S. Your screen will dim and the Snipping Tool cursor appears, letting you drag a rectangle or freeform shape that copies directly to your clipboard.
How do I open Task Manager directly if an application freezes?
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc. This opens Task Manager directly without going through the Windows Security Ctrl+Alt+Del blue screen menu.
How do I manage multiple virtual desktops with the keyboard?
Press Win + Ctrl + D to create a new virtual desktop. Press Win + Ctrl + Left or Right arrow to switch between them, and Win + Ctrl + F4 to close your current desktop.
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