Author: William Johnson

Using keyboard shortcuts in Windows can dramatically improve productivity. While many default shortcuts already exist—like Ctrl + C for copy or Alt + Tab to switch windows—you can also create custom keyboard shortcuts for launching programs, opening folders, or executing scripts.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to create custom keyboard shortcuts in Windows using built-in methods and trusted third-party tools. This step-by-step article is based on my personal experience setting up shortcuts on Windows 10 and Windows 11, combined with verified information from reliable sources.

If you frequently open the same apps or perform repetitive actions, custom shortcuts can save you clicks and time.

What You Need to Know Before You Begin

• You can create shortcuts for applications, folders, and files.
• Windows has built-in support for assigning hotkeys to desktop shortcuts.
• You can use third-party tools like AutoHotKey for more advanced customization.
• Shortcuts must use a combination of Ctrl, Alt, or Shift with a letter or number.

Now, let’s get started with the simplest method first.

Method 1: Create Custom Shortcuts Using Desktop Shortcut Properties

This is the easiest and most reliable way to create custom keyboard shortcuts in Windows.

Step 1: Create a Desktop Shortcut

1. Right-click on your desktop.
2. Select New > Shortcut.
3. In the location field, type the path to the file, folder, or app.
   For example:
   • C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe
   • Or browse manually by clicking Browse.
4. Click Next, name the shortcut, and click Finish.

Step 2: Assign a Keyboard Shortcut

1. Right-click on the shortcut you just created.
2. Select Properties.
3. In the Shortcut tab, click on the Shortcut key field.
4. Press the key combination you want to use (e.g., Ctrl + Alt + C).
5. Click Apply, then OK.

Your custom shortcut is now active. Test it by pressing the key combination. It should launch the associated file, folder, or application instantly.

Note: Windows automatically prefixes the shortcut with Ctrl + Alt. You cannot remove that prefix using this method.

Method 2: Use Taskbar Shortcuts (Limited Customization)

If the program is pinned to the taskbar, you can open it using Windows key + number, based on its position.

Example:

• First item on the taskbar: Win + 1
• Second item: Win + 2

This isn’t a custom shortcut per se, but it’s useful for quick access.

Method 3: Use Windows Settings to Assign Shortcuts (For Accessibility Tools)

Some Windows utilities like Magnifier, Narrator, and Snipping Tool allow built-in shortcut customization.

Example: Assign shortcut to Snipping Tool

1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.
2. Enable the shortcut for Snipping Tool or other accessibility tools.
3. Follow on-screen instructions.

These shortcuts are often predefined by Windows, but in some cases you can change them in Registry Editor or using scripting tools.

Method 4: Use AutoHotKey for Advanced Shortcuts

If you want more control—like automating tasks, running scripts, or assigning shortcuts without desktop icons—AutoHotKey is a powerful tool.

Step 1: Download and Install AutoHotKey

• Visit autohotkey.com
• Download and install the latest version.

Step 2: Create a New Script

1. Right-click on your desktop.
2. Choose New > AutoHotKey Script.
3. Name the file something like MyShortcuts.ahk.

Step 3: Edit the Script

1. Right-click the script and select Edit Script.
2. Add a line like:

cpp

CopyEdit

^!c::Run “C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe”

This line means Ctrl + Alt + C will open Chrome.

1. Save and close the file.
2. Double-click the .ahk file to run it. The shortcut is now active.

You can add as many shortcuts as you like in one script.

To make it permanent:

• Add the script to Startup folder so it runs every time Windows starts.

Method 5: Use Windows Registry Editor (Advanced Users Only)

Registry editing allows deep-level customization, but it’s risky and not recommended for casual users. You can bind custom key combinations to specific Windows functions using registry tweaks, but this process is manual and error-prone.

Unless you’re experienced, it’s better to stick with AutoHotKey or shortcut properties.

How to Disable or Remove Custom Keyboard Shortcuts

For Shortcut Properties:

1. Right-click the desktop shortcut.
2. Go to Properties > Shortcut tab.
3. Clear the Shortcut key field.
4. Click Apply and then OK.

For AutoHotKey:

1. Exit the script from the taskbar icon.
2. Or delete the .ahk file to remove all bindings.

Best Practices for Creating Shortcuts

• Use combinations that don’t conflict with system shortcuts (avoid Ctrl + C, Alt + F4).
• Keep it consistent. For example, use Ctrl + Alt + W for web apps.
• Avoid overly complex combinations.
• Document your shortcuts if you’re using many, especially with AutoHotKey.

My Personal Experience with Custom Shortcuts

I rely on custom shortcuts daily to launch apps like Notepad++, Chrome, and my Downloads folder. Using AutoHotKey, I’ve even created shortcuts for inserting predefined text while writing or coding.

Once set up, these shortcuts make tasks smoother and reduce mouse reliance. I always recommend starting with basic desktop shortcut methods before moving to scripting tools. It’s a habit that builds up speed over time.

Use Cases for Custom Shortcuts

• Launch a frequently used app (e.g., Photoshop, Chrome).
• Open a specific folder (e.g., Project folder).
• Run a batch file or PowerShell script.
• Paste canned email responses using AutoHotKey.
• Open websites directly from a hotkey.

Conclusion

Creating custom keyboard shortcuts in Windows is a powerful way to improve workflow and efficiency. Whether you use the basic desktop method or advanced scripting via AutoHotKey, Windows gives you multiple options to tailor your experience.

Start small—assign shortcuts to the apps you open daily. Once you get comfortable, explore more powerful automation using scripts.

In my daily routine, custom shortcuts have become second nature. With just a few key presses, I can open tools, start tasks, or even paste full templates. This guide provides all you need to start building your own shortcut system that works for your needs.

Voice Typing in Windows 11 is a built-in feature that allows you to dictate text using your voice, eliminating the need for manual typing. This tool is particularly beneficial for users seeking hands-free interaction with their PC, whether for accessibility reasons or convenience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up and use Voice Typing effectively.

What Is Voice Typing in Windows 11?

Voice Typing is Windows 11’s integrated speech-to-text functionality, enabling users to input text by speaking. It’s powered by Microsoft’s online speech recognition services and works across various applications where text input is possible, such as Notepad, Microsoft Word, web browsers, and more.

Prerequisites for Using Voice Typing

Before you begin, ensure the following:

• Internet Connection: Voice Typing relies on online speech recognition, so a stable internet connection is necessary.
• Microphone: A working microphone is required. This can be built-in or external.
• Language Settings: Ensure that your preferred language is set up for speech recognition.

How to Enable and Use Voice Typing

Step 1: Open a Text Input Field

Click on any area where you can type text, such as a document, search bar, or text field in an application.

Step 2: Activate Voice Typing

• Using Keyboard Shortcut: Press Windows + H keys simultaneously.
• Using Touch Keyboard: If you’re on a touchscreen device, tap the microphone icon next to the spacebar on the touch keyboard.

A small Voice Typing toolbar will appear on the screen.

Step 3: Start Dictating

Once the toolbar indicates it’s listening, begin speaking clearly. Your speech will be transcribed into text in real-time.

Step 4: Stop Dictating

To stop Voice Typing, you can:

• Click the microphone icon on the Voice Typing toolbar.
• Press Windows + H again.

Customizing Voice Typing Settings

Click the settings (gear) icon on the Voice Typing toolbar to access customization options:

• Auto Punctuation: Toggle this on to allow Windows to insert punctuation marks automatically based on your speech patterns.
• Voice Typing Launcher: Enable this to have the Voice Typing toolbar appear automatically when you click on a text field.

Supported Languages

Voice Typing supports multiple languages, including:

• English (United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, India)
• French (France, Canada)
• German
• Spanish (Spain, Mexico)
• Chinese (Simplified, Traditional)

To switch languages:

• Click the language switcher on the taskbar.
• Press Windows + Spacebar to cycle through installed languages

Tips for Effective Voice Typing

• Speak Clearly: Articulate your words to improve recognition accuracy.
• Use Commands for Punctuation: Say “comma,” “period,” “question mark,” etc., to insert punctuation.
• Edit as Needed: Review the transcribed text and make corrections manually if necessary.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Voice Typing Not Activating: Ensure your microphone is connected and not muted. Check that online speech recognition is enabled in Settings > Privacy & security > Speech.
• Poor Recognition Accuracy: Background noise can affect performance. Try using a headset or moving to a quieter environment.
• Unsupported Language: Verify that your desired language is installed and set as the default input language.

Conclusion

Voice Typing in Windows 11 is a powerful tool that enhances productivity and accessibility. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently dictate text across various applications. Remember to speak clearly and utilize the customization options to tailor the experience to your needs.

Managing virtual desktops in Windows is a powerful way to organize your workspace, especially when juggling multiple projects or tasks. This feature allows you to create separate desktops for different activities, reducing clutter and enhancing focus. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, virtual desktops can streamline your workflow effectively.

What Are Virtual Desktops?

Virtual desktops enable you to create multiple, separate desktop environments on a single physical monitor. Each virtual desktop can host different applications and windows, allowing you to switch between tasks without overlapping windows. For instance, you can have one desktop for work-related applications and another for personal browsing or entertainment.

How to Create a Virtual Desktop

Using Task View:

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon on the taskbar.
   • Alternatively, press Windows + Tab on your keyboard.
2. Create a New Desktop:
   • In the Task View interface, click on New desktop.
   • A new virtual desktop will appear, and you can switch to it immediately.

Using Keyboard Shortcut:

• Press Windows + Ctrl + D to create and switch to a new virtual desktop instantly.

Switching Between Virtual Desktops

Using Task View:

• Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
• Select the desktop you want to switch to from the list of available desktops.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts:

• Press Windows + Ctrl + Left Arrow to move to the previous desktop.
• Press Windows + Ctrl + Right Arrow to move to the next desktop.

Using Touchpad Gestures (Windows 11):

• Swipe four fingers left or right on the touchpad to switch between desktops.

Renaming Virtual Desktops

Assigning meaningful names to your virtual desktops can help you stay organized.

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Rename Desktop:
   • Right-click on the desktop you want to rename.
   • Select Rename and enter the desired name.

Customizing Desktop Backgrounds (Windows 11)

In Windows 11, you can set different backgrounds for each virtual desktop to distinguish them visually.

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Change Background:
   • Right-click on the desktop thumbnail.
   • Select Choose background.
   • In the settings window, select a picture to set as the background for that desktop.

Note: Custom backgrounds are only supported when using pictures, not solid colors or slideshows.

Moving Windows Between Desktops

You can move open windows from one virtual desktop to another to better organize your tasks.Lifewire

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Move Window:
   • Right-click on the window you want to move.
   • Select Move to and choose the target desktop.

Alternatively, you can drag and drop the window to the desired desktop thumbnail in Task View.

Showing Windows on All Desktops

If you want a particular window to appear on all virtual desktops:

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Show on All Desktops:
   • Right-click on the window.
   • Select Show this window on all desktops.

To revert this setting, repeat the steps and uncheck the option.

Closing a Virtual Desktop

When you’re done with a virtual desktop, you can close it without losing your open applications.

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Close Desktop:
   • Hover over the desktop you want to close.
   • Click the X button that appears.

Note: Closing a desktop moves its open windows to the previous desktop.

Keyboard Shortcuts for Virtual Desktops

• Create New Desktop: Windows + Ctrl + D
• Close Current Desktop: Windows + Ctrl + F4
• Switch Desktops: Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow
• Open Task View: Windows + Tab

Personal Experience

As someone who frequently multitasks between different projects, virtual desktops have been invaluable. I typically have one desktop dedicated to work-related applications like email and documents, another for research and browsing, and a third for communication tools. This separation helps me maintain focus and reduces the clutter on each desktop.

Conclusion

Virtual desktops in Windows are a versatile tool for enhancing productivity and organization. By effectively utilizing this feature, you can create distinct workspaces tailored to your specific tasks, leading to a more streamlined and efficient workflow.

Experiencing high CPU usage in Windows Task Manager can lead to sluggish performance, unresponsive applications, and overheating. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to identify and resolve high CPU usage issues in Windows 11.

Understanding High CPU Usage

High CPU usage indicates that your computer’s processor is working at or near its maximum capacity. Common causes include:

• Background processes: Unnecessary applications running in the background.
• Malware: Malicious software consuming system resources.
• Outdated drivers: Drivers that are incompatible or outdated.
• System services: Windows services like SysMain or Windows Search.
• Antivirus software: Security programs performing intensive scans.

Step-by-Step Solutions

1. Identify Resource-Intensive Processes

Steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click on the Processes tab.
3. Click the CPU column header to sort processes by CPU usage.
4. Identify processes consuming high CPU resources.
5. Right-click on the process and select End task if it’s unnecessary.

Note: Be cautious when ending system processes, as this may cause instability.

2. Restart Your Computer

A simple restart can resolve temporary issues causing high CPU usage.

Steps:

1. Click on the Start menu.
2. Select Power > Restart.

3. Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated software can lead to performance issues.

Update Windows:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

Update Drivers:

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand categories and right-click on devices to select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

4. Scan for Malware

Malware can cause high CPU usage by running unwanted processes.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Privacy & security > Windows Security.
3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
4. Select Quick scan or Full scan for a comprehensive check.

5. Disable Background Apps

Limiting background apps can free up CPU resources.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Apps & features.
3. Click on the three dots next to an app and select Advanced options.
4. Under Background apps permissions, choose Never.

6. Adjust Power Settings

Optimizing power settings can reduce CPU usage.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to System > Power & battery.
3. Click on Power mode and select Best performance.

Advanced Adjustment:

1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.
2. Go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
3. Click on Change plan settings next to your selected plan.
4. Click on Change advanced power settings.
5. Expand Processor power management and set Maximum processor state to 90%.

7. Disable SysMain Service

SysMain (formerly Superfetch) can cause high CPU usage.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down and double-click on SysMain.
3. Click Stop to halt the service.
4. Set Startup type to Disabled.
5. Click OK to apply changes.

8. Check for Windows Search Issues

Windows Search indexing can consume CPU resources.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate Windows Search and double-click it.
3. Click Stop to halt the service.
4. Set Startup type to Manual or Disabled.
5. Click OK to apply changes.

9. Investigate System Interrupts

High CPU usage by “System Interrupts” may indicate hardware issues.

Steps:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Check for devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
3. Update or disable problematic drivers.
4. Consider disconnecting external devices to identify the cause.

10. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help identify software conflicts.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Under the General tab, select Selective startup and uncheck Load startup items.
3. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
4. Click OK and restart your computer.

Conclusion

High CPU usage in Windows 11 can stem from various sources, including background processes, malware, and system services. By systematically identifying and addressing these issues, you can optimize your system’s performance and ensure a smoother computing experience.