On a Windows keyboard we find, along with the common letter and number keys, other keys whose function is less clear. Among those keys that are used so often are, for example, the Shift or CapsLock key, which, when combined with a letter, makes it uppercase. Less frequent, but extremely useful, are the combinations with the Ctrl key. This key does not have its own function assigned either , but, when used with other keys, it executes commands that are otherwise only accessible by going around with the mouse or through menus..
We show you a summary of the most useful keyboard shortcuts with the Ctrl key.
The abbreviation Ctrl comes from the English word control and is found on the keyboards of the vast majority of languages. The Control key has no function of its own, but only executes commands in combination with other keys , which vary depending on the active window. Thus, for example, the functions available are different in a word processor, in a web browser or in the operating system.
A Windows keyboard has two Ctrl keys in the bottom row . Its exact position depends on the model and manufacturer, but in most cases we find one on the left, next to the key with the Windows logo, and the other on the right, next to the AltGr key. The function of both keys is identical, so you can choose the most easily accessible key at any time..
On Apple keyboards there is a key labeled Ctrl and superscript ^ , but the functions offered by the Ctrl key on Windows are assumed by the Command Cmd key on Apple.
Keyboard shortcuts make it easy to execute commands that otherwise require several clicks. There are quite a few combinations with the Ctrl key that should be memorized, since with them you can execute the same usual commands in different programs ..
The functions for each key combination depend on the active window . The handy shortcuts are not only available in Windows, but also in the web browser and other applications.
With the Fn key you access the most used system settings with simple key combinations. Read our guide and find out how to turn the Fn key on and off.
Word processors like Microsoft Word offer a wide variety of handy Control-key shortcuts, so much so that, at first glance, it seems quite a challenge to memorize these combinations. However, in most cases, they can be deduced from the English word for the desired command . To execute the function, press the key containing the initial of the command and the Ctrl key simultaneously. An example: the English word for printing is print , so the print dialog is opened by pressing the [Ctrl] + [P] keys at the same time.