Most Useful and Important Windows 8 Shortcut Keys (arranged by function)

We have arranged Windows 8 shortcut keys by function rather than the keys themselves, so that our readers can easily find the keys for the functions they want. We have also categorized them so that our readers can memorize them in a more organized way. Remember that shortcut keys take time to learn but once you get used to, it becomes quite easy for you to operate your PC, much easier than with a mouse. So learning these shortcut keys is very useful if you use your PC often. For Windows 8, this is even more important, because Windows 8 is a touch oriented OS, it works but not great with a mouse. Consequently, shortcut keys become more important for operating your PC. So, here is the list.

Win key =Windows Key

Start screen

1. Go to the start screen: Win Key.
2. Search: When you are on the start screen, just start typing whatever you are searching for. Anywhere else, click “Win key + Q”.
3. Open app bar: Win + Z

Inside Apps

1. Snap an app to a side: Win +  .

Charms Menu

Perhaps the most useful shortcut keys are these ones. They are used everywhere and very frequently. So, take your time, learn them and try to get used to them. It will help a lot.

1. Open Charms Menu: Win + C
2. Search Charm: Win + Q 
3. Share charm: Win + H
4. Start Charm: Win Key
5. Devices Charm: Win + K
6. Settings Charm: Win + I

Desktop Operations

1. Show Desktop: Win key + D will simply show desktop. Win key + B will show desktop with with active taskbar.
2. Cycle through Desktop Gadgets : Win + G
3. Minimize all Windows: Win + M Set focus on taskbar and cycle through apps pinned to taskbar Win + T
4. Peek at the Desktop: Win Key + ,

 

Windows Explorer
1.    Open Windows Explorer: Win key + E
2.    Activate search box: Control + E

Misc.

1. View System Information: Win + Break
2. Lock the Computer or Switch Users: Win + L
3. Run: Win + R
4. Windows Help and Support: Win + F1