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The 7 Windows 8 Keyboard Shortcuts You Need to Know

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There’s no denying it. Microsoft’s Windows 8 operating system is a dramatic departure from the way older versions of Windows used to work. Announced and released at a time when no one can deny that Microsoft’s operating system is under increased pressure to simplify and change thanks to Apple’s iPad, Windows 8 is the company’s first stab at making things easier for tablet, desktop and laptop buyers.

In doing so, the company also introduced a ton of keyboard shortcuts that let users quickly enter, exit apps and more. Here are the 7 keyboard shortcuts you need to stay productive with any Windows tablet, desktop or laptop.

Searching For Apps Settings and Files

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To search your computer for installed applications, files and settings that you can’t seem to find anywhere, press the Windows Key on your keyboard and start typing the name of what you’re searching for.

Search Files

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In the event that you’d just like to search your Windows 8 device for a specific file, press the Windows Key and F at the same time.

Take a Screenshot or Share a Link From an App

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Have something that you need to showcase to friends and family? Or do you want to share an article on Twitter, Facebook or through a direct email? Press the Windows Key and H.

Close Or Minimize an App

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Have an app that you’d quickly like to shut down and move on from? Press the Windows key and the Down arrow to close a Windows Store app and minimize any traditional apps like iTunes.

Connect to an External Monitor or Projector

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Press the Windows Key and P to quickly connect to a connected monitor or projector.

Quickly Print

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Depending on which app you’re in, Windows 8 forces users to head to the New Devices area to print. To print from a Windows Store app, press the Windows Key and the letter K.

Go to the Start Screen

The last, and most important, Windows 8 keyboard shortcut is pretty basic, but addresses something that continues to be a pest for longtime Windows users. To open apps and access most of your device’s features always press the Windows Key to go back to the Start Screen. In fact, if you ever find yourself lost inside of any application or settings menu, press that key.

Here’s to hoping that this at least allows you to navigate Windows 8 easily than you could before.

 

 

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