We have become so addicted to the mouse, that we do not realize how much it disrupts our workflow. Every time you reach out for it, you’re losing a tiny bit of focus and time. And have you ever accidentally knocked something over while trying to get hold of your mouse?

 Windows Keyboard Shortcuts 101: The Ultimate GuideKeyboard shortcuts can save you hours of time. Master the universal Windows keyboard shortcuts, keyboard tricks for specific programs, and a few other tips to speed up your work.Read MoreHere is a list of the most handy Windows, Office, Chrome, and Firefox keyboard shortcuts. We’ve also included universal keyboard shortcuts that have a function in multiple applications.

Windows

These keyboard shortcuts are specific to Windows. We’ve tested them on Windows 10, but most also work on previous versions of Windows.

High Contrast: SHIFT + ALT + PRINT

In its default setting, this shortcut opens a warning window before applying any changes. Click Yes or simply hit Return to switch to the high contrast setting.

This will enlarge the font on all open windows and change colors to high contrast. For example, the desktop will turn black, what was black text on white background before will be reversed. Clicking the same key combination again reverts the changes.

Rotate Screen: CTRL + ALT + UP/DOWN/LEFT/RIGHT Arrow

This won’t work on every machine as it depends on your graphics card and video drivers. However, if it does work, it will rotate your desktop. It’s also the quickest way to play a trick on an unsuspecting victim.

You can make this change permanent through display settings. Head to the Settings app (press Windows key + I) and go to System > Display. Here you can change the Orientation from Landscape to Portrait or a flipped (upside down) version of the two.

Have you ever done this accidentally and couldn’t figure out what happened? Take a look at this and other keyboard shortcuts users hit by mistake.

 Oops! 10 Keyboard Shortcuts Users Keep Hitting by MistakeFind that your keyboard won’t type properly? Here are common keyboard shortcuts that cause issues and how to fix them.Read More

Switch Between Open Windows: ALT + TAB

This keyboard shortcut launches a layover window that shows all open programs. Hold onto the ALT key and click the TAB key to move to the next application. Release both keys to open the selected window.

You can reverse the direction by holding ALT + SHIFT while pressing the TAB key.

Delete Without Confirmation: SHIFT + DEL

Do you hate these nagging windows asking you whether you really want to do this or that. If you want to quickly delete something, without being harrassed for a confirmation, use this shortcut.

Do you want to make the instant delete route your default setting? Right click the Recycle Bin on your desktop, select Properties, and remove the checkmark next to Display delete confirmation dialog.

Should you ever run into trouble deleting a file in use, we’ve got you covered.

 How to Delete a File in Use by Another ProgramWindows says your file is in use because it’s open in another program? We show you how to force rename, delete, or move the file.Read More

Show Desktop / Restore Open Windows: Windows key + D

Rather than moving your mouse into the bottom right corner of your screen to see your desktop, press this keyboard shortcut. Press it again to restore your windows exactly as they were before.

Lock System: Windows key + L

You should never leave your desktop unattended. Before you head out to the loo or to grab another coffee, press this keyboard shortcut to lock your system. When you return and log back in, all programs and windows will appear the way you left them.

If you can’t be bothered to type in your super secure Microsoft password every time you log back into your desktop, set a short PIN instead.

 PIN or Password? What to Use in Windows 10Windows 10 allows you to sign into your PC using several methods. The two most popular are passwords and PINs. Let’s examine the differences between them and decide which is best for you.Read More

Run Command Prompt as Administrator: Windows key + R, type cmd, hold CTRL + SHIFT, hit ENTER

This is one complex chain of commands. But if you manage to do it right, you’ll have instant Administrator access to the command prompt.

 Essential Windows CMD Commands You Should KnowThe bleak interface of the command prompt is your gateway to advanced Windows tools. We show you essential CMD commands that will let you access them.Read More

Unfortunately, this shortcut doesn’t seem to work anymore as of the Windows 10 Creators Update. Alternatively, press Windows key + X to open the Quick Access Menu, then use the UP/DOWN arrow keys to move the Command Prompt (Admin) entry, and hit ENTER.

Shut Down: Windows key + X, U, I / U / R / H / S

You can shut Windows down with a few button clicks. It all starts with Windows key + X to open the Quick Access Menu, followed by the U key to expand the Shut down or sign out options. Finally, press I to sign out, U to shut down, R to restart, H to hibernate, and S to sleep.

Create Your Own Desktop Keyboard Trick

Are there folders or applications you need a lot? Why not create your own keyboard shortcut to quickly access these tools.

Note: This will only work for shortcuts located on your desktop!