For any computer running Microsoft Windows, you’ll notice that the keyboard features a Windows (Logo) key. You’ll find it to the lower-left, between Ctrl and Alt.

That Windows key actually has many hidden uses, some of which you may love! Check out these various keyboard shortcuts that use it:

  • Windows Key: Opens the Start menu or Start panel.
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  • Win + A: Opens Quick Settings.
  • Win + B: Focuses on the Hidden Icons on the Taskbar.
  • Win + C: Opens Microsoft Teams (Chat).
  • Win + D: Displays/Hides the Desktop.
  • Win + E: Opens File Explorer.
  • Win + F: Opens the Feedback Hub and inserts a screenshot for you to submit.
  • Win + G: Opens the Xbox Game Bar.
  • Win + H: Launches Voice Typing.
  • Win + I: Opens the Settings panel.
  • Win + J: Sets focus to a Windows tip when one is available.
  • Win + K: Opens the Cast window, to send your screen to another display.
  • Win + L: Locks your PC, also allows you to switch accounts.
  • Win + M: Minimizes all Windows.
  • Win + N: Shows Notifications & Calendar.
  • Win + O: Locks the device’s screen orientation.
  • Win + P: Opens the Project options window (for multiple screens).
  • Win + Q: Opens the Search tool.
  • Win + R: Opens a Run window.
  • Win + S: Opens the Search tool.
  • Win + T: Cycles through apps on the taskbar.
  • Win + U: Opens the Accessibility panel.
  • Win + V: Opens the Clipboard history.
  • Win + W: Shows the Widgets.
  • Win + X: Open the Quick Link menu (same as right-clicking the Start button).
  • Win + Y: Switches to Windows Mixed Reality (VR devices).
  • Win + Z: Opens the Snap layouts.
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  • Win + ; or Win + .: Opens the Emoji picker!

Please experiment with these to discover which ones are the most useful for you. Some of these shortcut combos may change your computing life!