The Windows Key was introduced in Microsoft’s Natural keyboard before release of Windows 95 and became a standard key in PC keyboards after the release of Windows 95 .
The Winkey is the hottest key and below are some (most) of the shortcuts using this key .
Windows Key – Pop-ups the Start menu (Can be replaced by Ctrl + Esc but not with other combinations).
Windows Key + B – Selects the first icon in notification area.
Windows Key + D – Shows desktop By hiding all Windows, Press the combination again to return back.
Windows Key + E – Opens Windows Explorer.
Windows Key + F – Opens Windows Search.
Windows Key + G – Selects Desktop Gadgets, brings it to foreground – Vista onwards.
Windows Key + Ctrl + F – Opens Find Computers (Requires active directory domain service).
Windows Key + L – Locks the desktop, can be used to switch users.
- Windows Key + M – Minimizes all open Windows.
- Windows Key + Shift + M – Maximizes all opens Windows.
Windows Key + R – Opens Run Dialog.
Windows Key + U – Opens Utility Manager / Ease of access center.
Windows Key + P – Switch between projection modes (multiple monitors) – Win 7.
Windows Key + T – Navigate through active programs in taskbar -Win 7.
Windows Key + X – Opens Windows Mobility center (If portable computer features are installed) -Vista onwards.
Windows Key + Pause/Break – Opens System properties.
Windows Key + Alt + Enter – Opens Windows Media center (media center editions).
Windows Key + Spacebar – Shows sidebar(vista), Aeropeek(Win7).
Windows Key + Tab – Switch Windows using Aeroflip 3D (Vista onward).
Windows Key + 1, Windows Key + 2 … Windows key + 0 – Quick launch(Vista), Activate taskbar programs(Win 7).
- Windows Key + Up Arrow Key – Maximize Active Window – Win 7.
- Windows Key + Down Arrow Key – Restore the active Window.
- Windows Key + Left/Right Arrow Key – Align the active Window to respective sides.
- Windows Key + Shift + Left/Right Arrow Key – Shifts the active Window to previous/next monitor(multiple monitors).
- Windows Key + +, Windows Key + – – Zooms in/out where mouse cursor is placed using Magnifier -Win 7.
- Windows Key + Esc – Quits magnifier utility.
Microsoft OneNote Shortcuts
- Windows Key + Shift +N – Opens onenote.
- Windows Key + N – New side note.
- Windows Key + S – Screen shot for onenote.