Discover Obscure Keyboard Shortcuts for Lightning-Fast Navigation in Windows

For those who regularly work on Windows, the transition from keyboard to mouse can often lead to lost time during tasks like opening folders, resizing windows, or switching applications. This delay can be particularly frustrating when using a touchpad, further impeding smooth navigation.

Fortunately, you can enhance your efficiency drastically by learning key Windows keyboard shortcuts. These shortcuts allow you to swiftly navigate File Explorer, manage taskbar items, transition between virtual desktops, and access important system tools—all within mere seconds. After incorporating these shortcuts into my daily routine, I’ve discovered they save me valuable time on every task.

5 File Explorer Shortcuts

Navigate Tabs and Folders Faster than Ever

Home tab in File Explorer — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

Unlock the full potential of File Explorer by opting for keyboard shortcuts instead of mouse clicks. Utilizing these combinations simplifies the process of opening, navigating, and organizing files.

Shortcut	Action
Win + E	Open File Explorer
Ctrl + Shift + N	Create a new folder
Alt + Enter	Open properties of a selected file or folder
Ctrl + Mouse Scroll	Quickly change icon size in Explorer
Alt + D	Select the address bar in File Explorer
Ctrl + F	Access File Explorer’s search menu
Ctrl + N	Duplicate the File Explorer window
Ctrl + T	Open a new tab in File Explorer (if tabs are available)
Ctrl + W	Close the current tab or window
Ctrl + Tab / Ctrl + Shift + Tab	Switch between open tabs in File Explorer
Ctrl + Shift + Number (1-9)	Change the view style in File Explorer (details, tiles, etc.)

Many shortcuts for File Explorer will also enhance your experience in web browsers, offering you a dual benefit of speed across applications.

4 Taskbar Shortcuts

Command Your Taskbar with the Keyboard

Windows 11 taskbar — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

The taskbar is a fundamental component of Windows that you likely use daily. By mastering its keyboard shortcuts, you can seamlessly switch between applications, launch pinned programs, and handle multiple windows without relying on the mouse.

Shortcut	Action
Win + 1–9	Launch or switch to the pinned app in the respective numbered position on the taskbar
Win + Alt + Number (1–9)	Open the right-click menu for the pinned app
Shift + Click (or Win + Shift + Number)	Open a new instance of the pinned app
Ctrl + Shift + Click	Open the pinned app as an administrator
Win + T	Cycle through taskbar apps; press Enter to open the selected one
Win + D	Show or hide the desktop
Win +, (comma)	Temporarily peek at the desktop

3 Virtual Desktop Shortcuts

Move Between Desktops in a Flash

Windows 11 virtual desktop — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

Virtual desktops are among Windows’ most powerful productivity features, allowing you to create distinct workspaces tailored to various tasks like work, personal projects, or gaming. By mastering a few shortcuts, you can efficiently manage and navigate between these virtual environments.

Shortcut	Action
Win + Ctrl + D	Create a new virtual desktop
Win + Ctrl + Left / Right Arrow	Switch between virtual desktops
Win + Ctrl + F4	Close the current virtual desktop (apps will move to the previous one)
Win + Tab	Open Task View to view all desktops and open windows
Win + Ctrl + Shift + Left / Right Arrow	Move an active window to another virtual desktop

2 Window Management Shortcuts

Snap, Resize, and Switch Windows Like a Pro

File Explorer window showing snap layout options — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

For users with larger monitors, Windows’ Snap Layouts feature is invaluable. It enables interaction with multiple apps simultaneously, maximizing your screen usage. With a few keyboard shortcuts, you can arrange, resize, or switch between windows without the hassle of dragging.

Shortcut	Action
Win + Left Arrow / Right Arrow	Snap the active window to the left or right side of the screen
Win + Up Arrow	Maximize the current window to fill the entire screen
Win + Down Arrow	Minimize the current window or restore it if it’s already maximized
Win + M	Minimize all windows instantly to show your desktop
Win + Shift + M	Restore all minimized windows to your view
Alt + Tab	Switch between open windows (hold Alt and tap Tab until you reach the desired window)
Alt + Esc	Cycle through open windows in the order they were opened

1 Miscellaneous but Useful Shortcuts

Hidden Shortcuts That Save Serious Time

Windows backup settings on Local account — Screenshot by Pankil Shah — No attribution required

Some of the most beneficial shortcuts don’t fit neatly into defined categories, yet they are pivotal for frequently accessed Windows features and functionalities.

Shortcut	Action
Win + A	Open the Windows 11 quick settings panel
Win + N	Access the Notification Center for a summary of alerts and calendar events
Win + V	Open clipboard history to paste recently copied items
Win + L	Lock your computer for security
Win + X	Open the hidden start menu for advanced options
Win + R	Launch the Run dialog box
Win + I	Open the Settings app directly
Ctrl + Shift + Esc	Instantly launch Task Manager

While mastering these Windows keyboard shortcuts might seem trivial, it can dramatically alter your computer usage experience. Additionally, getting acquainted with keyboard shortcuts for your most frequently used applications and web browsers will further enhance your productivity and efficiency.

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