In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency is key. For small and medium businesses (SMBs) looking to maximize productivity, mastering Windows 11 shortcuts can be a game-changer. Not only do these shortcuts save time, but they also reduce the physical strain associated with repetitive mouse movements. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best and most commonly used shortcuts in Windows 11 and understand how they can enhance your workflow.
What Are Keyboard Shortcuts?
Keyboard shortcuts are combinations of keys that perform specific tasks, bypassing the need for mouse clicks. They simplify your workflow by allowing you to perform commands quickly and efficiently. For instance, instead of navigating through multiple menus to open a new window, you can press Ctrl + N.
Essential Windows 11 Shortcuts
Here are some of the most useful shortcuts that every SMB should know:
- General Shortcuts:
- Win + D: Show desktop
- Win + E: Open File Explorer
- Win + L: Lock your PC
- Win + R: Open Run dialog box
- Alt + Tab: Switch between open apps
- Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open Task Manager
- File Management:
- Ctrl + N: Open a new window
- Ctrl + Shift + N: Create a new folder
- Ctrl + C: Copy the selected item
- Ctrl + V: Paste the copied item
- Ctrl + Z: Undo an action
- Ctrl + Y: Redo an action
- Win + E: Open File Explorer
- Delete: Delete the selected item and move it to the Recycle Bin
- Shift + Delete: Permanently delete the selected item
- Window Management:
- Win + Up Arrow: Maximize window
- Win + Down Arrow: Minimize window
- Win + Left/Right Arrow: Snap the window to the left/right half of the screen
- Win + Z: Open Snap Layouts
- Win + L: Lock your PC
The Impact of Using Shortcuts
Performance Impact
Using Windows keyboard shortcuts can save you a significant amount of time and effort. According to a study, users can save up to five seconds per action using keyboard shortcuts instead of mouse clicks. Over a year, this can add up to about 134 hours, or 17 workdays. This means that by incorporating keyboard shortcuts into your daily routine, you can reclaim nearly a month of productivity each year.
Medical Issues
Excessive use of a mouse can lead to repetitive strain injuries, such as tendinitis or arthritis. The repetitive movement of fingers on a keyboard or reaching and stretching for a mouse can cause inflammation in the tendons of your wrist and lead to conditions like computer elbow. Using shortcuts instead of mouse clicks can lower your risk of injury.
Conclusion
For SMBs, every second counts. Adopting Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts can enhance efficiency, reduce physical strain, and boost productivity. Encourage your team to learn and use these shortcuts, and watch as your business operations become smoother and more efficient.
Keyboard vs. mouse: how all that clicking slows you down – Superhuman Blog
Typing and tapping despite hand pain – Harvard Health
Are you interested in more articles? Check out: Windows 10 End of Life: What It Means for Your Business and How to Upgrade to Windows 11