Have you ever wondered about that funny looking key on your keyboard (next to the ALT key) that looks like a 4-pane window?
It's called the Windows (Logo) key!
To use the Windows key in combination with another key, press and hold the Windows key while you tap the second key. Release all keys immediately.
Some of the popular Windows key shortcuts are listed below. The first group of shortcuts works in all 3 operating systems - Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
PRESS: RESULT:
Windows key Open or close the Start menu
Windows key +D Display the desktop
Windows key +M Minimize all windows
Windows key +Shift+M Restore minimized windows to the desktop
Windows key +E Open Computer or My Computer
Windows key +F Search for a file or folder
Windows key +L Lock your computer or switch users
The next group of shortcuts works in Windows 7 & Vista only:
Windows key +T - Cycle through programs on the taskbar
Windows key +number - Start the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number. If the program is already running, switch to that program. For example: press Window key+1 to open the first program on the Taskbar.
Shift+Windows key +number - Start a new instance of the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows logo key +Tab - Cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D
Ctrl+Windows key +Tab - Use the arrow keys to cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D
Windows key +X - Open Windows Mobility Center
This final group of shortcuts is for Windows 7 only:
Windows key +Spacebar Preview the desktop
Windows key +Up Arrow Maximize the window
Windows key +Left Arrow Maximize the window to the left
Windows key +Right Arrow Maximize the window to the right
Windows key +P Choose a presentation display mode
