Back

Published on:

17 February 2026

Author:

TechPath

Save Time Every Day with These Keyboard Shortcuts

We all know how quickly a workday fills up. One way to get a little extra time back is by mastering keyboard shortcuts. They help you navigate Windows, Excel, Outlook, and Teams faster, so you spend less time clicking and more time getting things done.

Windows

  • Win + D – Show the desktop instantly
  • Alt + Tab – Switch between open apps quickly
  • Win + L – Lock your computer when stepping away
  • Ctrl + Shift + Esc – Open Task Manager without hunting in menus

Excel

  • Ctrl + Arrow Keys – Jump to the edge of data tables
  • Ctrl + C / Ctrl + V – Copy and paste (classic but essential)
  • Ctrl + Z / Ctrl + Y – Undo and redo actions instantly
  • F2 – Edit the active cell without using the mouse

Outlook

  • Ctrl + R – Reply to an email
  • Ctrl + Shift + M – Compose a new email from anywhere
  • Ctrl + 1 / 2 / 3 – Switch between Mail, Calendar, and Contacts
  • Alt + S – Send an email quickly

Teams

  • Ctrl + Shift + M – Mute or unmute yourself in a meeting
  • Ctrl + N – Start a new chat
  • Ctrl + E – Jump to the search bar
  • Ctrl + Shift + O – Toggle your video on or off

Even learning a few of these shortcuts can shave minutes off your daily routine, time you can spend on more meaningful tasks or just take a breather between meetings.

Try one new shortcut today and see how much smoother your day feels. Connect with TechPath on LinkedIn for more technology tips and insights.