Computer Tips and Tricks, Part II

In the second part of this series, we’ll address typing tips and a few keyboard tricks to increase efficiency in common applications. Learn how to paste the plain text of what was copied with [Ctrl] + [Shift] + [V], minimize all windows with [Windows] + [D], and much more!

 

 

Typing Tips:

Sometimes, formatting doesn’t transfer well from one program to another. In these cases, you may want to paste the plain text of what was copied. This is accomplished by pressing [Ctrl] + [Shift] + [V] instead of [Ctrl] + [V]. This also works on Macs with [Cmd] + [Shift] + [V]. Note: some programs do not follow this parameter, notably Microsoft Office applications. You can use [Ctrl] + [Alt] + [V] to open a paste dialogue box and choose unformatted text.

If you want to delete an entire word, hit [Ctrl] + [Backspace]. This will make it quicker to delete text.

To quickly jump to the beginning of the previous word, press [Ctrl] + [Left Arrow]. On Macs, use [Option] + [Left Arrow].

In the same vein as the previous tip, use [Ctrl] + [Right Arrow] to move the cursor to the beginning of the next word. On Macs, hit [Option] + [Right Arrow].

To make sub or superscript text, which is most often used for mathematical-related writing, use [Ctrl] + [+=] for subscript and [Ctrl] + [Shift] + [+=] for superscript.

If you need to add a symbol that isn’t part of your keyboard, search “character map” in the Start menu. This will give you a window that lets you select and copy every character conceivable.

 

Keyboard Tricks:

Sometimes, you can find yourself overwhelmed by the number of programs that you have running and you just want to minimize all windows to access the desktop. Luckily, this is easily accomplished by pressing [Windows] + [D].

While adding a program to the taskbar adds to ease of access, you can launch a taskbar program via your keyboard for even quicker convenience. Use [Windows] + [the number that corresponds to the position of the program] to open it immediately. For example, if Microsoft Word was the third icon on your taskbar, you would tap [Windows] + [3].

If you want to close the program that is currently running, use [Alt] + [F4].  This will save a small amount of time, but be sure that you’ve saved anything that you’re working on! The MacOS equivalent is [Cmd] + [Q].

 

 

Adapted from http://www.techspot.com/guides/676-best-computer-tricks/