Save Time with Keyboard Shortcuts

Sometimes there simply is not enough time in the work day to accomplish everything we need to get done. Sad to say, there is no miracle cure that we can provide to squeeze more time in a day. However, there are a few simple ways to make the most of your time on a computer.

Keyboard shortcuts can help save valuable time by not having to fumble around with the mouse. First an inside secret when starting: Pick one of the following tips to begin with. Once you master that, then go ahead and try another one.

The most basic shortcuts are “Ctrl C” for copy, “Ctrl X” for cut, and “Ctrl V” for paste. Also, another basic shortcut is “Alt Tab”. This will allow you to bring an open application to the front of your screen without using your mouse. Some easy ways to remember these are:

- “Ctrl C” is for copy because “C” stands for copy.

- “Ctrl X” is for cut because the “X” looks like you’ve crossed something out.

- “Ctrl V” is for paste because the “V” looks like the insertion symbol.

- “Alt Tab” is the “Alt” stands for alternative program and then you will “Tab” to the desired program.

There are specific shortcuts within Outlook, too. First, when you have an open email, push “Ctrl S” and send the email. “Ctrl R” will reply to an email. “Ctrl F” will forward the email and “Ctrl Shift R” will reply to all. Here are the easy ways to remember these:

- “Ctrl S” sends the email because “S” stands for send.

- “Ctrl R” replies to an email because “R” stands for reply.

- “Ctrl F” forwards an email because “F” stands for forward.

- “Ctrl Shift R” replies to all because “Shift” means you are adjusting from the orginal person and “R” stands for reply.

So again, try one of these out. Once you have mastered it, move on to another one. Watch to see how much time you will get back in one day just by implementing these simply shortcuts.

Comments

[Abby Wilkerson]

Good suggestions, great article! Shortcuts have saved me so much time, particularly learning a Mac (though I can't tell you how much time, because to quantify it would likely negate all the time I've saved). :)