Articles - May 7, 2020 - 1 minute

Type Faster Using Keyboard Shortcuts

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Whether you use a Mac or a PC, a good way to save time is to use keyboard shortcuts when typing. Even if it might seem difficult to remember them all, the initial time investment is well worth your while. You will type more quickly and also avoid injuries linked with repeated use of a mouse. What’s not to like?

What Is a Keyboard Shortcut?

A keyboard shortcut is a key or combination of keys that execute a predefined command. An example of this would be the commands to copy and paste (Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V). You can also execute these commands by using the menus in your software applications, but you need to use a mouse. Integrating keyboard shortcuts into your work method will make you more efficient and productive.

Essential Windows Shortcuts

SHORTCUT FUNCTION
Ctrl + C Copy selection
Ctrl + V Paste selection
Ctrl + X Cut selection
Ctrl + Z Undo previous action
Ctrl + Y Redo previous action
Ctrl + B Bold selected text
Ctrl + I Italicize selected text
Ctrl + U Underline selected text
Ctrl + N Open new document
Ctrl + O Open existing document
Ctrl + S Save current document
Ctrl + P Print current document
Ctrl + F Search for keyword in document
Ctrl + Delete Erase last word typed
Alt + F4 Close window or application
F2 Rename file
F11 Go into and out of full-screen mode

Essential Mac Shortcuts

SHORTCUT FUNCTION
Cmd + C Copy selection
Cmd + A Select all
Cmd + V Paste selection
Cmd + X Cut selection
Cmd + Z Undo previous action
Cmd + Y Redo previous action
Cmd + B Bold selected text
Cmd + I Italicize selected text
Cmd + U Underline selected text
Cmd + N Create new document
Cmd + O Open document
Cmd + P Print current document
Cmd + F Search for keyword in document
Cmd + Tab Switch between open applications
Cmd + T Open new tab in browser or Finder
Cmd + Delete Erase last word
Cmd + Space Display Spotlight search field
Cmd + or Move cursor before or after word

If you use Typing Pal, certain keyboard shortcuts will allow you to use the application more efficiently during your typing sessions. Find out which ones in our article on the subject.

Learn to type faster!