Windows 8.1: These are the most helpful keyboard shortcuts

Many users of Windows 8 consider the tile-based operation without a touchscreen to be unfavorable, even if the reintroduction of the start button since Windows 8.1 has been somewhat scaled back. Microsoft still has to put up with a lot of criticism because of the "Metro" interface in tile design. Be that as it may: not only power users should know a few keyboard shortcuts to be able to use the current Windows faster.

The Windows key is a central control element. When pressed briefly, you can use it to switch between the currently open application and the start screen.

If you do not have a keyboard with corresponding hotkeys, you can also use Windows + E to open Internet Explorer.

Use Windows + D to return to the desktop.

Some Windows 8 key combinations have even been extended in their scope: even in the last edition of the operating system, Windows + X could be used to access some system settings. In Win 8.1, however, a context menu opens, which also allows the computer to be shut down, thus saving the user a few detours via the menu.

To start an application or app, simply enter the name. With Windows + Q you open a search window and can start typing straight away without having to use the mouse.

Also useful is the ability to lock a PC with Windows 8 key combinations in an unfamiliar environment or at the workplace - if you need to do this quickly, you can do so with Windows + L without any further detours.

Handling windows of a running application is also possible with shortcuts: Combine the Windows key + up arrow key to maximize the window; Windows + down arrow key to minimize the view.

If you have connected a laptop to a projector for a presentation, you can open the options for a second screen directly with Windows + P.

And if you want to show a photo or screenshot to friends, you can open the Share menu in the Charm bar by pressing Windows + H.

Of course, you can reach every menu and all settings in an operating system with the mouse - but it can't hurt to know a few Windows 8 shortcuts. This can often save you detours and make using Windows even smoother.

If you use the required shortcuts in practice, you will quickly notice how productivity increases. This is especially true if you don't access certain menus very often and have to search for a long time using the mouse.

By the way: Even if Microsoft changes the operating concept again in future versions, the functions of the key combinations you have learned are usually retained, which saves you getting used to them.

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