The versatile Windows key

Let’s start with the easy ones. As we expect most PC Pro readers will already know, combining the Windows key with a variety of others gives you direct access to a range of useful functions:

Windows + E Open a new File Explorer window Windows + D Hide and restore your active windows – an easy way to quickly clear your screen if you don’t want someone else to see what you’re working on Windows + M Minimise all active windows to expose your desktop Windows + I Open the Settings app (in Windows 8 and 10) Windows + L Immediately lock your PC – useful if you need to step away from your desk Windows + R Open the Run dialog, for launching apps and running commands by name You can also use the Windows key to organise your application windows. Hold it down and tap the left or right arrow keys to snap the active window to the left- or right-hand edge of the screen. Use it with the up and down arrow keys to maximise or minimise the open window. If you have too many windows, don’t try to line them all up; tap Windows + Home to close everything except the window that has focus.

The Windows key also comes into its own if you’re using Windows 10’s multiple virtual desktops. You can instantly switch to a new desktop by pressing Windows + Ctrl + D, and page back and forth between your open desktops by holding down Windows + Ctrl and tapping the left or right cursor key. Windows + Ctrl + F4 closes the current desktop, while Windows + Tab gives you a preview of the apps running on each desktop. You can jump to an open application or desktop by clicking on it with the mouse – or, navigate to it with the cursor keys and hit Return.