Maximize active window
Win+↑
Windows key and the Up direction.
17 shortcuts
Windows & desktops shortcuts
More overview, fewer clicks. Here are the most useful key combinations, each with a short explanation. Practise them in the AlphaType trainer afterwards.
Practise these shortcuts nowAll Windows & desktops shortcuts
Restore or minimize window
Win+↓
The result depends on the current window state.
Snap window to left
Win+←
The arrow direction matches the side of the screen.
Snap window to right
Win+→
The arrow direction matches the side of the screen.
Move window to left monitor
Win+Shift+←
Requires multiple monitors.
Move window to right monitor
Win+Shift+→
Requires multiple monitors.
Minimize all other windows
Win+Home
Only the active window stays visible.
Open Task View
Win+Tab
Shows open windows and virtual desktops.
Create new virtual desktop
Win+Ctrl+D
D for Desktop, plus Ctrl.
Switch to left virtual desktop
Win+Ctrl+←
Switches virtual desktops instead of windows.
Switch to right virtual desktop
Win+Ctrl+→
Switches virtual desktops instead of windows.
Close current virtual desktop
Win+Ctrl+F4
Practice this one with the on-screen keyboard.
Show Snap Layouts
Win+Z
Windows 11: window layout suggestions.
Switch to next open window
Alt+Tab
Keep holding Alt to keep cycling through the windows.
Switch to previous window
Alt+Shift+Tab
The Shift key reverses the order.
Open window system menu
Alt+Space
Menu with Move, Size and Minimize.
Close active window
Alt+F4
Practice this one only with the on-screen keyboard.
Learning Windows & desktops efficiently
Start with a few combinations you use often and repeat them in context. AlphaType shows the task, lets you practise the keys and gives immediate feedback.