Windows 8 shortcuts

Windows 8 is on the market for some time now, but despite that fact, some users still find it hard to get used to the interface. For some, the absense of the Start menu is a reason not to upgrade. But no worries! Hopefully after reading this blog, a world of user friendliness will be opened.

To navigate quickly within Windows 8, it's useful to make use of shortcuts. Below you can find some shortcuts documented: 

When you press the Windows button, you can switch between the program that is currently running, and the application list:




Windows 8 Start screen

When you scroll your mouse in the start screen, you will navigate left or right. Once you start typing the name of an application, for instance "Oult", then Windows will search for programs with that phrase in their name. This way you can open programs really fast and easy.

Press Windows + C for the so called 'Charms bar'. This menu is what opens on the right side of your screen, it also opens when you move your mouse to the right bottom corner of your screen.

Press Windows + I to go quickly to the 'Settings' screen. Here you will find 'PC Settings', 'Personalization', and 'Control Panel'.

If you quickly want to see all your Apps, then press Windows + Q.

To search quickly for files, press Windows + F.

When you have connected an extra monitor, to extend or dulicate your monitor, or use a beamer, then this combination will show you your options: Windows + P.

If you want to lock your screen for security reasons? Then press Windows + L.

Quickly open Windows Explorer? --> Windows + E.

Quickly open the "Run" box?  --> Windows + R.

 

And possibly the most useful command (which comes closest to the traditional Start menu): The Windows Tools menu --> Windows + X.