Essential Shortcuts for Business Productivity

Introduction

As someone who relies heavily on efficiency at work, nothing frustrates me more than seeing people not using the available shortcuts that can make their workflow so much smoother. Shortcuts can significantly improve productivity by eliminating unnecessary clicks and steps. So, I decided to compile a list of essential shortcuts for both Windows and browsers that I use daily, which have helped me stay efficient and organized.

If you’re not using these already, I highly recommend trying them out to streamline your workflow and boost your productivity!

Windows Shortcuts

Here are some of my favorite shortcuts for Windows that can save you time and keep your desktop organized:

Windows Key + Shift + S: Snip & Sketch (take screenshots with more control)
If you’re taking frequent screenshots, this is a game-changer. You can select specific regions or take a full-screen snap in a matter of seconds.
Windows Key + E: Open File Explorer
Quickly access your files with this shortcut, eliminating the need to search for the File Explorer icon.
Windows Key + V: Clipboard/Copied history (requires activation, my personal favorite!)
This feature stores your clipboard history, allowing you to paste previously copied items.
Windows Key + Left/Right Arrow: Snap windows to the side
Perfect for multitasking, this lets you snap windows to either side of your screen and work with two apps simultaneously.
Windows Key + L: Open Lock Screen (When walking away from your desk!)
Secure your computer quickly by locking it when you’re stepping away from your desk.
Windows Key + Number (1-9): Launch apps pinned to the taskbar by their position
Instantly open apps pinned to your taskbar by pressing the number key corresponding to their position.
Ctrl + Shift + N: Create a new folder in File Explorer
Skip the right-click menus and create folders with ease while organizing your files.
Alt + Tab: Cycle through open applications
Easily switch between your open applications without using the mouse.

Browser Shortcuts (Firefox in my case)

Whether you’re researching, downloading files, or simply browsing the web, these browser shortcuts can make your life easier:

Ctrl/Command + Shift + N: Open a new incognito/private window
Useful for quick sessions when you don’t want your browsing history saved.
Ctrl/Command + J: Open Downloads page
Access your downloaded files quickly without having to navigate through the menus.
Ctrl/Command + Shift + R: Reload page without caching data (force/hard refresh)
Bypass the browser cache and get the most up-to-date version of a web page.
Alt + Left Arrow: Go back (in history)
Quickly navigate back to the previous page with this handy shortcut.
Ctrl + Tab: Cycle through tabs (left to right)
Switch between open browser tabs efficiently with this shortcut.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the shortcuts I rely on daily to maximize my productivity. Each of them serves a purpose in helping me get things done faster, whether I’m working on a report, browsing the web, or organizing files. I hope you find at least one of these shortcuts helpful and incorporate it into your routine.

Did I miss any of your favorite shortcuts? Let me know! 😁