Windows Tools, Help & Guides

This is a guest post written by Kelly, from Barton Technology; find out more about Kelly at the conclusion of this post.

Microsoft’s latest version of the venerable Windows operating system is Windows 8. Unlike many other previous releases, such as Vista and Windows 7, Windows 8 is a major refresh of the operating system and appears quite different than the previous few versions; the biggest revamping since Windows 95.

Touchscreen technology has taken off of late with the introduction of several tablet PCs and the ever-popular iPad, and Windows 8 is designed primarily for use with a touchscreen, be it a tablet or some of the fancier new machines that offer touchscreen monitors.

However, not every user that is planning to upgrade to Windows 8 or purchase a new system is going to have the capability or desire to use a touchscreen. Fortunately, Windows 8 have anticipated this scenario and have included a number of keyboard shortcuts.

Windows + PrtScn
Pressing the Windows button plus the Print Screen button will take a screenshot of what is currently on your machine’s screen, saving it to the hard drive as a .png file in the new Screenshots folder. Not pressing the Windows key will still take a screenshot, but will only copy the shot to the clipboard.

Windows + Z
In previous versions of Windows, clicking with the right mouse button would bring up an options menu for whatever program you were working in. The Windows + Z shortcut serves this same purpose.

Windows + Tab
This shortcut works similar to the familiar Alt + Tab shortcut, but works for Metro apps. Instead of switching between windows, it switches between apps listed on the left side of the screen.

Windows + D
Some people might prefer the older style Windows desktop. This shortcut is a quick way to get to a more familiar-looking desktop. To return to the Metro style desktop, one can simply press the Windows button by itself.

Windows + I
If you need to access the system options, this shortcut is definitely your friend. Also, Windows 8 defaults to putting your computer or tablet to sleep rather than shutting it down and powering it off. By using this shortcut, you will be able to find the hidden option to power the system down completely.

Windows + Full Stop/Period
Pressing Windows + Full Stop will snap the current Metro app to the right of the screen, locking it there and allowing you to continue working on the left side. This is particularly useful for keeping an eye on Twitter.

Kelly has worked in the IT support industry for several years and currently works for [Barton Technology]. It is an exciting industry, which is constantly changing and has even seen the revival of the tablet. For more information, visit [www.barttech.co.uk].

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