If you are a more experienced computer user, you already know that it is possible to use several shortcuts to activate commands more quickly. In this list, we can also include those with the Control key (or Ctrl, if you prefer).
With this feature, you can write more efficiently. With that in mind, we have prepared a list for you who want to learn how to use Ctrl more efficiently. Check it out!
Common shortcuts using the 'Ctrl' key
These shortcuts are widely used in almost all Windows applications and interfaces. They involve basic operations such as copy, paste and save – essential for daily use of the system. Follow along:
- CTRL + C: copies the selected item to the clipboard;
- CTRL + V: pastes the contents of the clipboard at the current cursor position;
- CTRL + X: cuts the selected item to the clipboard;
- CTRL + Z: undoes the last action performed;
- CTRL + Y: redo the last undone action;
- CTRL + A: selects all the contents of a document or window;
- CTRL + S: saves the current document or file;
- CTRL + P: opens the print window for the current document;
- CTRL + F: opens the search bar to find text or items in the document/window;
- CTRL + N: opens a new document or window;
- CTRL + O: opens an existing document or file;
- CTRL + W: closes the current window or document.
- CTRL + T: opens a new tab in the browser or in some applications;
- CTRL + Tab: switches between open tabs in a browser or application;
- CTRL + Shift + T: reopens the last closed tab in the browser;
- CTRL + Esc: opens the Windows Start menu.
- CTRL + L: focus on the address bar in browsers or File Explorer;
- CTRL + D: adds the current page to favorites in the browser;
- CTRL + R: refreshes the current page in the browser or the active window.
The Ctrl key offers several useful shortcuts for Windows users. (Source: GettyImages/Reproduction)Source: GettyImages/Reproduction
Editing shortcuts using the 'Ctrl' key
Here we have some useful shortcuts when working with text documents or presentations. They facilitate quick text formatting and help organize content. Check it out:
- CTRL + B: applies bold formatting to selected text;
- CTRL + I: adopts italic format in the selected text;
- CTRL + U: applies underline to selected text;
- CTRL + E: centers the selected text or object;
- CTRL + L: aligns the text or object to the left;
- CTRL + R: aligns the text or object to the right;
- CTRL + J: justifies the selected text or object.
Navigation shortcuts using the 'Ctrl' key
These shortcuts allow you to quickly navigate within long documents and pages, helping you move your cursor to different parts of the content. They are:
- CTRL + left/right arrow: moves the cursor word by word in the text;
- CTRL + up/down arrow: moves the cursor through paragraphs in the text;
- CTRL + Home: takes the cursor to the beginning of the document;
- CTRL + End: takes the cursor to the end of the document;
- CTRL + Enter: inserts a page break into the document.
System shortcuts using the 'Ctrl' key
In this regard, shortcuts are specific to the Windows operating system and allow quick access to critical functions, such as task management and window control.
- CTRL + Alt + Del: opens the security screen, allowing access to the Task Manager, shutdown, etc.;
- CTRL + Shift + Esc: opens Task Manager directly;
- CTRL + Alt + Tab: shows all open windows to switch between them;
- CTRL + Shift + N: creates a new folder in File Explorer;
- CTRL + Shift + Esc: directly opens the Task Manager.
We hope these commands help you make your day-to-day use of the computer even more dynamic. Oh, and since these shortcuts were focused on Windows, how about checking out the dynamic features on Mac? See you next time!
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Text updated by Douglas Vieira, 09/17/2024.