Useful Keyboard Shortcuts

Documentation

Keyboard shortcuts are combinations of keystrokes that allow you to quickly perform an action. They are useful and often great time-savers. This page includes a guide to a few useful combinations that will help you complete tasks more quickly. 

Windows
Mac OSX
Where can I find these keys on my keyboard?

Windows

The list displays key combinations that are intended to be pressed and held until all are completed. For example, to copy text (Ctrl + "C"), you would highlight the text and press and hold the "Ctrl" (or control) key on your keyboard, then tap the "C" key before releasing both keys. 

  • Open a recently closed tab in your internet broswer: Ctrl + Shift "T"
  • Switch between open windows: Alt + Tab
  • Minimize everything and show desktop: (or between the desktop and Start screen in Windows 8.1): Windows Key + "D" 
  • Minimize window: Windows Key + Down Arrow
  • Maximize window: Windows Key + Up Arrow
  • Bold: Ctrl + "B"
  • Paste selected Item: Ctrl + "V"
  • Copy selected Item: Ctrl + "C"
  • Cut selected Item: Ctrl + "X" 
  • Underline: Ctrl + "U"
  • Italicize: Ctrl + "I" 
  • Undo an action: Ctrl + "Z"
  • Print: Ctrl + "P"
  • Select all: Ctrl + "A"
  • Take screenshot: PrtScr
  • Take screenshot of active screen: Ctrl + Alt + PrtScr
  • Delete permanently: Shift + Delete
  • Open properties for selected item: Alt + Enter
  • Close current window: Alt + F4
  • Open the Start Menu: Ctrl + Esc
  • Flip screen rotation: Ctrl + Alt + any arrow key
  • Open Task Manager: Ctrl + Shift + Esc
  • Lock your PC or switch users: Windows Key + "L"
  • Choose a presentation display mode: Windows Key + "P"
  • Zoom in and out: Windows Key and plus or minus sign
  • Search for files and folders: Windows Key + "F"
  • Help: Windows Key + "F1"
  • Quick system access menu: Windows Key + "X"

View more shortcuts on Microsoft's Page. 
 

Mac OSX

  • Eject disk: Command + "E"
  • Get information:  Command + "I"
  • Add to dock: Command + Shift + Control + "T"
  • Minimize all windows: Command + Option + "M"
  • Minimize front window: Command + "M"
  • Swich applications: Command + Tab
  • Take screenshot: Command + Shift + "3"
  • Quit application: Command + "Q"
  • Force quit application: Command + Shift + Option + Esc
  • New folder: Command + Shift + "N"
  • Log out: Command + Shift + "Q"
  • Paste selected item: Command + "V"
  • Cut selected item: Command + "X"
  • Copy selected item: Command + "C"
  • Close all windows: Command + Option + "W"
  • Select all items: Command + "A" 
  • Take screenshot: Command + Shift + "3" 
  • Find: Command + "F"
  • Print: Command + "P"
  • Save: Command + "S"
  • Move to trash: Command + Delete
  • Undo/redo: Command + "Z"
  • Show desktop: Command + F3
  • Hide or display dashboard: F12
  • Choose a presentation display mode: Command + F1

View more shortcuts on Apple's page. 
 

Where can I find these keys on my keyboard?

Windows (Scroll over for a larger image)

MacBook 

  

Notebook Computer Care Tips

Documentation

Notebook computers are precision machines that require a bit of careful handling. Though the ThinkPad computer is designed and tested to be a durable notebook computer that functions reliably in normal work environments, you need to use some common sense in handling it.

Below is a list of things you can do to prevent possible damage to your notebook computer.

  • Turn off all attached devices.
  • Turn off the computer and close the LCD.
  • Unplug all external cables, devices, and cords connected to your computer before you relocate it. 
  • Make sure all computer doors and covers are closed.
  • Use a quality carrying case that provides adequate cushion and protection.
  • Shut your computer off before transporting it.
  • Back up your files often in case of damage.
  • Be sure to keep your machine up to date to avoid software problems in the future.
  • Make sure your computer is password protected.
  • Regularly scan for viruses. Viruses can hide in places you wouldn’t expect and can slow down your machine without you realizing it.
  • Always make sure that software you download has come from a reliable source to prevent viruses.
  • Keep canned air handy to dust the machine regularly.
  • A re-image isn’t a bad thing! Re-imaging your machine at the beginning of the year can help keep your machine updated and can better prepare your machine for new class-related software.

Below is a list of things you should not do.

  • Subject your computer to physical punishment, such as dropping or bumping.
  • Place heavy objects on your computer.
  • Spill or allow liquids into your computer.
  • Pack your computer in a tightly packed suitcase or bag. The compression might cause internal damage.
  • Disassemble your computer.
  • Scratch, twist, hit, or push the surface of your computer display.
  • Place any objects between the display and keyboard or under the keyboard.
  • Pick up or hold your computer by the display. When picking up your open computer, hold it by the bottom (keyboard) half.
  • Turn your computer over while the AC Adapter is plugged in. This could break the adapter plug.
  • Store your computer where the temperature is below 41° F or above 95° F (5° C and 35° C).
  • Lend your computer to anyone while you are not present.
  • It is not recommended to use your machine anywhere near sand, dirt, gravel, etc. Sand can get into small places in the machine and could cause problems.
  • When cleaning the keyboard it is not advised to remove the keys yourself. It is possible to break a small piece on the key that holds it to the keyboard.
  • Do not torrent software! While file sharing may not inherently be bad, it is sometimes used illegally and can make your machine vulnerable to a lot of different viruses!
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