Mastering keyboard shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow and reduce reliance on the mouse. Here’s the best way to learn and use them effectively:

1. Start with Essential Keyboard Shortcuts #

Focus on universal shortcuts that work across most applications:

• Copy: Ctrl + C (Cmd + C on Mac)
• Paste: Ctrl + V (Cmd + V on Mac)
• Undo: Ctrl + Z (Cmd + Z on Mac)
• Redo: Ctrl + Y (Cmd + Shift + Z on Mac)
• Switch Apps: Alt + Tab (Cmd + Tab on Mac)

2. Learn Keyboard Shortcuts Specific to Your Workflow #

• Identify the software you use most (e.g., Excel, Photoshop, Windows 11) and learn key shortcuts for your most used functions.
• Start with tasks that you do the most, and spend a few days doing them with their corresponding shortcut only.
• Refer to your shortcut cheat sheet to learn additional shortcuts.

3. Practice Daily #

• Commit to using a few shortcuts every day.
• Force yourself to avoid the mouse whenever possible.

4. Use Shortcut Trainer Tools #

• Apps like KeyCombiner, ShortcutFoo, and KbdGym help reinforce shortcut memory.
• Some software offers built-in reminders when you use the mouse for a shortcut action. You may have to turn on the reminders or tool tips in the settings.

5. Customize Your Own Shortcuts #

• Many applications allow custom shortcut creation (e.g., in Windows, Mac, and Adobe programs).
• Set shortcuts that match your natural hand placement.

6. Use a Macro Tool for Repetitive Tasks #

• Tools like AutoHotkey (Windows) or Keyboard Maestro (Mac) let you automate complex tasks with a single keystroke.
• You can also purchase macro peripherals like the Elgato Stream Deck to set up push button shortcuts to your most used applications and functions.

7. Gradually Expand Your Shortcut Knowledge #

• Once you’re comfortable with the basics, learn advanced shortcuts like:
  • Virtual Desktops: Ctrl + Win + D (Windows) / Ctrl + Up (Mac)
  • Clipboard History: Win + V (Windows)
  • Snipping Tool: Win + Shift + S (Windows) / Cmd + Shift + 4 (Mac)
  • Screenshots: Win + Shift + S (Windows) / Cmd + Shift + 3 (Mac)

8. Stay Consistent & Be Patient #

• The more you use shortcuts, the more natural they become.
• Over time, your productivity will increase as tasks become second nature.

Start small, be consistent, and watch your efficiency soar!

Ready to boost your productivity? #

Check out Kitable Planet’s keyboard shortcut bundles for Adobe, Windows, Mac, and Linux power users.