If You Know These Keyboard Shortcuts, You Won't Need a Mouse

This article explains how to use a computer without a mouse or trackpad by utilizing keyboard shortcuts. **For Windows:** * **Win** opens the Start menu. * **Alt+Tab** switches between applications. * **Alt+F4** closes programs. * **Tab** navigates between sections, and arrow keys move within them. * **Win+S** searches the computer. * **Win+E** opens File Explorer. * **Enter** confirms selections, **Esc** exits menus. * **Win+Up/Down** maximizes/minimizes windows. * **Win+Left/Right** snaps windows to the sides. * **Alt+Space** provides more window options. * **Space** scrolls down pages. * **Shift+F10** accesses right-click context menus. * Underlined characters in menus indicate direct selection keys. * **Shift + arrow keys** selects text. * **Shift+Ctrl + arrow keys** selects words. * Common shortcuts like **Ctrl+C** (copy), **Ctrl+V** (paste), **Ctrl+S** (save), **Ctrl+A** (select all), and **Ctrl+W** (close) are also useful. * Mouse Keys (in Settings > Accessibility > Mouse) allows cursor control via the numeric keypad. **For macOS:** * Many Windows shortcuts work similarly, using **Cmd** instead of **Ctrl** (e.g., **Cmd+C**, **Cmd+V**, **Cmd+S**, **Cmd+A**, **Cmd+W**). * Arrow keys, **Tab**, **Space**, **Esc**, and **Enter** function similarly. * **Cmd+Tab** switches applications. * **Cmd+Space** searches the Mac. * **Ctrl+F2** focuses the menu bar, **Ctrl+F3** the dock. * **Cmd+`** opens the preferences pane for the current app. * **Shift + arrow keys** selects text. * **Shift+Option + arrow keys** selects words. * **Cmd+M** minimizes windows. * Menu items often display their keyboard shortcuts. * Keyboard navigation can be enhanced in System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts. * Mouse Keys (System Preferences > Accessibility > Pointer Control > Alternative Control Methods) enables pointer control with the numeric keypad.