Keys to a quicker and easier workflow!
You may have heard of a keyboard shortcut before and wondered what that really means, so here is the Cambridge Dictionary definition:
"A key or combination of keys that you can press on a computer keyboard as a quick way of achieving a particular result."
Essentially, there are faster methods than hunting around for the right button to accomplish your goals. In fact, there are usually several shortcuts for not only particular programs but also across websites and your entire computer. This blog will go over a few that relate to some of the most common tasks you have in your workday.
Composing Messages
One task you more than likely find yourself doing often is typing up messages. These shortcuts can help speed up the process of creating and formatting your messages whether it's an email in Outlook, a chat in Teams, or a message in Falcon Online (announcements, grading feedback, content topics, etc.)
| Function | Windows shortcut | Mac shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Undo | Ctrl + Z | ⌘Cmd + Z |
| Select All | Ctrl + A | ⌘Cmd + A |
| Select by word (left or right) | Ctrl + Shift + (⬅️ or ➡️) | ⌥Option + Shift + (⬅️ or ➡️) |
| Copy | Ctrl + C | ⌘Cmd + C |
| Cut | Ctrl + X | ⌘Cmd + X |
| Paste | Ctrl + V | ⌘Cmd + V |
| Bold | Ctrl + B | ⌘Cmd + B |
| Italic | Ctrl + I | ⌘Cmd + I |
| Add a hyperlink | Ctrl + K | ⌘Cmd + K |
| Add an emoji | Windows logo key + Period (.) | Ctrl + ⌘Cmd+ Spacebar |
| Dictation (if enabled) | Windows logo key + H (enable in Windows) | [Selected key, such as Ctrl] twice or microphone key if available (enable on Mac) |
Microsoft (MS) Teams
Oftentimes you may find yourself in a Teams call with colleagues at the College. Imagine avoiding muting issues and quickly raising your hand to get your questions addressed. Try these shortcuts to help you manage your presence and experience while attending events and hosting impromptu meetings alike.
| Function (*denotes no shortcut available in web version) | Windows shortcut | Mac shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Show list of shortcuts for Teams | Ctrl + Period (.) | ⌘Cmd + Period (.) |
| Turn on/off your video camera* | Ctrl + Shift + O | ⌘Cmd + Shift + O |
| Turn on/off mute | Ctrl + Shift + M | ⌘Cmd + Shift + M |
| Temporarily unmute (push-to-talk)* | Ctrl + Spacebar | ⌥Option + Spacebar |
| Raise or lower your hand | Ctrl + Shift + K | ⌘Cmd + Shift + K |
| Turn on/off background blur* | Ctrl + Shift + P | ⌘Cmd + Shift + P |
General Computer Efficiency
Outside specific tasks, there are common functions of your computer that are also easily activated with keyboard shortcuts. Think of all the times you've had to refresh your web browser, switch from one window to another, or even scroll through documents. All of these tasks are easy but can quickly take up a lot of time as you race your mouse across the screen to the button you need. In addition, there are ways to enhance your current workflow. Consider the times you've left your computer unlocked (😬) or when it would have been easier to view your work side-by-side. There are shortcuts to make locking your computer and organizing your application windows super simple.
| Function | Windows shortcut | Mac shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Lock your computer | Windows logo key + L | Ctrl + ⌘Cmd + Q |
| See all your open windows | Windows logo key + Tab | Ctrl + ⬆️ |
| Switch between your open windows | Alt + Tab | ⌘Cmd + Tab |
| Snap a window to the left or right | Windows logo key + ⬅️ or ➡️ | Click and hold the green button at the top left of the window |
| Go to the beginning/top of a page | Home key | ⌘Cmd + ⬆️ |
| Go to the end/bottom of a page | End key | ⌘Cmd + ⬇️ |
| Move focus to the next item | Tab | Tab (enable using the keyboard like a mouse on mac) |
| Move focus to the previous item | Shift + Tab | Shift + Tab (enable using the keyboard like a mouse on mac) |
| Find/Search | Ctrl + F | ⌘Cmd + F |
| Refresh | F5 | ⌘Cmd + R |
| Ctrl + P | ⌘Cmd + P |
Resources
If you're curious what other shortcuts are available, check out the resources below or even hover over some of your most-used application buttons for a pop-up message which may include the keyboard shortcut. A big thank you to Bill Harrison for helping with this blog post and gathering additional resources for any curious minds out there!
Keep in touch!
As always, please reach out if you have any questions or feel free to schedule a one-on-one appointment for help. Also, if you haven't done so already please consider subscribing to this blog to stay up-to-date with the latest tips and news!
Jasmine Checchi
Instructional Designer, Division of Online Studies
jasmine.checchi@daytonastate.edu | 386-506-4278
Online Studies | Faculty Innovation Center (FIC)