If you use a Windows computer every day, chances are you’re only scratching the surface of what it can really do. While most people are familiar with common shortcuts like Ctrl + C (copy) and Ctrl + V (paste), Windows has a treasure trove of hidden shortcuts that can make your life much easier. Mastering these tricks can save you time, boost productivity, and make your workflow smoother.
In this post, we’ll uncover hidden Windows shortcuts every user should know. Once you start using them, you’ll wonder how you ever worked without them.
1. Win + D: Show or Hide Desktop Instantly
If your screen is cluttered with multiple windows, press Windows Key + D to instantly minimize everything and reveal your desktop. Press it again, and all your windows come back. It’s the fastest way to access files or shortcuts without closing apps.
2. Win + E: Open File Explorer Immediately
Instead of hunting for the File Explorer icon, simply press Windows Key + E. It opens your default file manager instantly, helping you navigate your folders and files without wasting clicks.
3. Win + Ctrl + D: Create a New Virtual Desktop
Multitaskers will love this one. With Windows Key + Ctrl + D, you can create a brand-new virtual desktop. This allows you to separate workspaces—for example, one desktop for work apps, another for entertainment. To switch between desktops, use Win + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow.
4. Alt + Tab: Switch Between Apps Effortlessly
Most users know this one, but few use it effectively. Press Alt + Tab to see all open windows and switch quickly between them. Hold Alt and keep tapping Tab to cycle through apps until you land on the one you need.
5. Win + L: Lock Your Computer in Seconds
Need to step away from your desk? Press Windows Key + L to lock your computer instantly. This shortcut is especially handy in shared spaces or offices to protect your privacy.
6. Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open Task Manager Directly
Most people use Ctrl + Alt + Delete and then select Task Manager. But there’s a faster way—Ctrl + Shift + Esc opens Task Manager directly. This is a must-know shortcut for troubleshooting frozen apps or monitoring performance.
7. Win + V: Access Clipboard History
If you’ve ever copied something only to lose it by copying something else, this shortcut will change your life. Press Windows Key + V to access your clipboard history. You’ll see a list of everything you’ve copied recently, and you can paste from there. (Make sure Clipboard History is enabled in settings.)
8. Win + Period (.): Open Emoji Panel
Need emojis in your document or chat? Instead of searching for them online, press Windows Key + . (period). This opens the emoji panel where you can quickly insert emojis, GIFs, and symbols into your text.
9. Win + PrtSc: Take Instant Screenshots
Instead of fumbling with the Snipping Tool, press Windows Key + PrtSc. This takes a screenshot of your entire screen and saves it automatically in your Pictures > Screenshots folder. No more “Print Screen + Paste into Paint.”
10. Win + Ctrl + Shift + B: Fix Display Issues Quickly
If your screen freezes or acts glitchy, press Windows Key + Ctrl + Shift + B. This shortcut restarts your graphics driver without rebooting your entire computer. It’s a hidden lifesaver for anyone dealing with sudden display issues.
11. Shift + Right Click: Advanced Context Menu
When you right-click a file while holding Shift, you’ll see additional hidden options in the context menu. For example, you can copy the file path directly or open a command window from that location.
12. Win + Number Keys: Launch Taskbar Programs
Did you know you can open pinned apps on your taskbar using number keys? For instance, if Chrome is the first app pinned, pressing Windows Key + 1 will open it. Windows Key + 2 will open the second pinned app, and so on.
13. Win + Tab: Timeline View
Press Windows Key + Tab to see all your open windows in a full-screen timeline view. This makes it easier to switch tasks or revisit recent documents you worked on.
14. Ctrl + T / Ctrl + Shift + T: Manage Browser Tabs
Although not strictly Windows-only, this shortcut is essential. Ctrl + T opens a new browser tab instantly. Even better, Ctrl + Shift + T reopens the last tab you closed—perfect for when you accidentally close something important.
15. Win + I: Open Settings Fast
Skip digging through menus. Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings panel immediately. From here, you can adjust system preferences, network settings, and more.
Windows is packed with shortcuts designed to make your life easier, but many of them remain hidden from everyday users. By incorporating these Windows productivity hacks into your routine, you can speed up navigation, simplify multitasking, and troubleshoot problems in seconds.
Instead of relying on your mouse for every task, practice these shortcuts until they become second nature. Not only will you save time, but you’ll also work like a true Windows power user.