Introduction
Keyboard shortcuts are the fastest way to work in Windows 11. Mastering these shortcuts can save you hours of work each week and significantly improve your productivity. This guide covers all important shortcuts, from basic to advanced.
Key convention
- Win = Windows key
- Ctrl = Control
- Alt = Alternate
- Shift = Shift
- + = Press simultaneously
Essential Windows Shortcuts
These are the most important shortcuts every Windows 11 user should know.
Snap Layouts & Windows
Snap Layouts is one of the best new features in Windows 11. These shortcuts let you organize windows quickly.
Pro Tip
Hold Win + Z and use numbers to quickly select a Snap Layout design without using the mouse.
Virtual Desktops
Virtual desktops let you organize your work in separate spaces. Ideal for separating personal and professional work.
File Explorer
Navigate and manage files more efficiently with these File Explorer shortcuts.
Taskbar
Quickly access apps pinned to your taskbar.
Screenshots
Windows 11 offers several ways to capture your screen with keyboard shortcuts.
Accessibility
Windows 11 includes numerous accessibility features accessible via shortcuts.
Command Line
Useful shortcuts for Windows Terminal, PowerShell, and Command Prompt.
Microsoft Edge
Essential shortcuts for faster browsing in Microsoft Edge.
Gaming & Xbox Game Bar
Shortcuts for gamers using Xbox Game Bar and Windows 11 gaming features.
Create Custom Shortcuts
You can create custom keyboard shortcuts for your favorite applications.
How to create a custom shortcut:
- 1Right-click on the application shortcut
- 2Select 'Properties'
- 3Click on the 'Shortcut key' field
- 4Press the desired key combination
- 5Click 'Apply' and 'OK'
Maximize Your Productivity with Windows 11
Get a genuine Windows 11 license and access all productivity features, including advanced features exclusive to Windows 11 Pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Windows 10 shortcuts work in Windows 11?
Yes, most Windows 10 shortcuts work in Windows 11. However, Windows 11 includes new shortcuts like Win + Z for Snap Layouts and Win + N for notifications.
Can I change default Windows shortcuts?
Windows system shortcuts cannot be modified directly. However, you can use third-party tools like PowerToys to remap keys and create new custom shortcuts.
What is Win + V and how do I enable it?
Win + V opens clipboard history, which saves recently copied items. The first time you use it, Windows will ask you to enable it. Once enabled, you can access recently copied text, images, and files.
How do I memorize so many shortcuts?
Start with the 5-10 most useful shortcuts for your workflow. Use this page as a reference and practice one new shortcut each day. Over time, shortcuts become automatic.
Are there Windows 11 Pro-specific shortcuts?
Shortcuts are the same across all Windows 11 editions. However, Windows 11 Pro includes additional features like Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) and BitLocker that you can access via Win + R.