Keyboard shortcuts are key combinations that help you perform tasks quickly without using a mouse. They save time, improve efficiency, and make working on a computer smoother. In this blog, we will cover some of the most commonly used keyboard shortcuts in Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, and web browsers that are useful for exams like SSC CGL Computer Awareness.
What are Keyboard Shortcuts?
A keyboard shortcut is a set of one or more keys that, when pressed together, perform a specific action. For example, pressing Ctrl + C copies selected text or files. Instead of navigating menus, shortcuts allow you to execute commands instantly.
Common Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
Windows operating system supports many shortcuts that simplify daily tasks. Here are some important ones:
| Shortcut | Action |
| Ctrl + C | Copy |
| Ctrl + X | Cut |
| Ctrl + V | Paste |
| Ctrl + Z | Undo |
| Ctrl + Y | Redo |
| Alt + Tab | Switch between open apps |
| Ctrl + Alt + Del | Open Security Options |
| Win + D | Show Desktop |
| Win + L | Lock computer |
MS Word Keyboard Shortcuts
Microsoft Word is often used for documentation. Knowing its shortcuts can make editing and formatting easier.
| Shortcut | Action |
| Ctrl + A | Select all text |
| Ctrl + B | Bold selected text |
| Ctrl + I | Italicize selected text |
| Ctrl + U | Underline text |
| Ctrl + P | Print document |
| Ctrl + F | Find text |
| Ctrl + H | Replace text |
| Ctrl + S | Save document |
| Ctrl + Shift + L | Apply bullet points |
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MS Excel Keyboard Shortcuts
Excel is widely used for data management and analysis. Shortcuts help you work with spreadsheets faster.
| Shortcut | Action |
| Ctrl + N | Create new workbook |
| Ctrl + O | Open workbook |
| Ctrl + S | Save workbook |
| Ctrl + T | Insert table |
| Ctrl + Shift + L | Apply/remove filters |
| F2 | Edit active cell |
| Ctrl + Space | Select entire column |
| Shift + Space | Select entire row |
| Alt + = | AutoSum |
Web Browser Keyboard Shortcuts
Web browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Firefox also support shortcuts to enhance browsing.
| Shortcut | Action |
| Ctrl + T | Open new tab |
| Ctrl + W | Close current tab |
| Ctrl + Shift + T | Reopen closed tab |
| Ctrl + Tab | Switch to next tab |
| Ctrl + Shift + Tab | Switch to previous tab |
| Ctrl + N | Open new window |
| Ctrl + H | Open browsing history |
| Ctrl + D | Bookmark current page |
| Ctrl + F | Search on the page |
Why Keyboard Shortcuts are important for exams?
In competitive exams like SSC CGL, Computer Awareness often includes questions on keyboard shortcuts. These are easy-to-score questions if you practice regularly. Apart from exams, shortcuts also improve your productivity in day-to-day computer usage.
Key Takeaways
Below are the key takeaways:
- Keyboard shortcuts save time and improve efficiency.
- They are frequently asked in SSC and other competitive exams.
- Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, and browsers have different sets of shortcuts.
- Regular practice helps you remember them easily.
FAQs
Ans. Keyboard shortcuts are key combinations that perform specific actions quickly without using a mouse, such as copying, pasting, or switching between windows.
Ans. They are frequently asked in the Computer Awareness section of SSC exams and are easy to score if you practice regularly.
Ans. Press Ctrl + C to copy and Ctrl + V to paste text or files.
Ans. Use Ctrl + T to open a new tab in browsers like Chrome or Edge.
Ans. Press Ctrl + A to select all the text in a Word document.
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I’m Mahima Khurana, a writer with a strong passion for creating meaningful, learner-focused content especially in the field of competitive exam preparation. From authoring books and developing thousands of practice questions to crafting articles and study material, I specialize in transforming complex exam-related topics into clear, engaging, and accessible content. I have first hand experience of 5+ months in SSC Exams. Writing, for me, is not just a skill but a way to support and guide aspirants through their preparation journey one well-written explanation at a time.