There are literally dozens of keyboard shortcuts that can save you time and energy. They work with virtually all windows programs including internet software.

The Control or Ctrl-keys are usually located in the bottom left-hand side of your keyboard and bottom right-hand side of the main keyboard area.

Oops! I didn’t mean to do that!

Probably the most common use of the Ctrl-key is the Undo function. If you are editing a file such as a Microsoft Word document and inadvertently delete a block of text or make an error, don’t panic! Simply undo your last action by holding down the Ctrl-key and pressing the Z-key (Ctrl+Z). Depending on the software you’re using, you’ll be able to undo many times by repeating the action. Want to undo the undo!? Simply hold down the Ctrl and Shift-key then press the Z-key (Ctrl+Shift+Z). These shortcuts act like a rewind and fast-forward function for windows.

Cut & Paste

Here are some commonly used keyboard shortcuts that also manipulate text or files.

Cut (Ctrl+X): Cuts a selection and places it on the Windows clipboard.
Copy (Ctrl+C): Works like Cut but without deleting the original data.
Paste (Ctrl+V): Use this after you move the cursor to the place where you want to Cut or Copy.
Select All (Ctrl+A): Selects the entire page or section.

For the multi-tasker

If you often open more than one window at a time, hold down the Alt-key with your thumb and repeatedly press Tab with your left index finger to jump to any open window. You’ll see a dialog box similar to the one below.

I’ve only scratched the surface of the subject of keyboard shortcuts here and encourage you to explore your system or search google to discover new tips and tricks. Gradually introduce these useful shortcuts into your windows skillset and before you know it they’ll become second-nature.