Application-specific shortcuts are keyboard shortcuts that are specific to certain applications or programs. These shortcuts can be very helpful in improving productivity when using these programs. In this article, we will discuss some commonly used application-specific shortcuts for PC computers.
Photoshop Shortcuts
Photoshop is a powerful image editing software with a wide range of features. Here are some commonly used Photoshop shortcuts:
Ctrl + J: Duplicate Layer
Ctrl + Alt + Shift + E: Merge Visible Layers
Ctrl + T: Transform
Ctrl + Shift + N: New Layer
Ctrl + Shift + Alt + N: New Layer (no dialog)
Ctrl + Shift + Alt + E: Stamp Visible
Ctrl + Shift + I: Inverse Selection
Ctrl + D: Deselect
Ctrl + Alt + Shift + S: Save for Web & Devices
Ctrl + Alt + Z: Step Backward
Example: Let’s say you are working on an image and want to duplicate a layer. You would press Ctrl + J to quickly duplicate the layer.
Excel Shortcuts
Excel is a spreadsheet program used to organize and analyze data. Here are some commonly used Excel shortcuts:
Ctrl + N: New Workbook
Ctrl + O: Open Workbook
Ctrl + S: Save Workbook
Ctrl + P: Print Workbook
Ctrl + Z: Undo
Ctrl + Y: Redo
Ctrl + C: Copy
Ctrl + V: Paste
Ctrl + X: Cut
Ctrl + F: Find
Example: Let’s say you are working on a budget spreadsheet and want to find a specific value. You would press Ctrl + F to bring up the Find dialog box and search for the value.
Word Shortcuts
Word is a word processing program used to create and edit documents. Here are some commonly used Word shortcuts:
Ctrl + N: New Document
Ctrl + O: Open Document
Ctrl + S: Save Document
Ctrl + P: Print Document
Ctrl + Z: Undo
Ctrl + Y: Redo
Ctrl + C: Copy
Ctrl + V: Paste
Ctrl + X: Cut
Ctrl + F: Find
Example: Let’s say you are working on a report and want to copy a section of text. You would press Ctrl + C to quickly copy the text.
PowerPoint Shortcuts
PowerPoint is a presentation program used to create and deliver presentations. Here are some commonly used PowerPoint shortcuts:
Ctrl + N: New Presentation
Ctrl + O: Open Presentation
Ctrl + S: Save Presentation
Ctrl + P: Print Presentation
Ctrl + Z: Undo
Ctrl + Y: Redo
Ctrl + C: Copy
Ctrl + V: Paste
Ctrl + X: Cut
Ctrl + F: Find
Example: Let’s say you are giving a presentation and want to quickly move to the next slide. You would press the space bar to move to the next slide.
Premiere Pro Shortcuts
Premiere Pro is a video editing software used to create and edit video content. Here are some commonly used Premiere Pro shortcuts:
Ctrl + N: New Sequence
Ctrl + O: Open Sequence
Ctrl + S: Save Sequence
Ctrl + P: Export
Ctrl + Z: Undo
Ctrl + Y: Redo
Ctrl + C: Copy
Ctrl + V: Paste
Ctrl + X: Cut
Ctrl + F: Find
Example: Let’s say you are editing a video and want to quickly export it. You would press Ctrl + P to bring up the export dialog box and export the video.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you improve your computer skills using keyboard shortcuts:
Practice, Practice, Practice
The more you use shortcuts, the more comfortable you will become with them. Try to incorporate keyboard shortcuts into your workflow as much as possible, and practice using them whenever you can. This will help you memorize the shortcuts and use them more efficiently.
Customize Your Shortcuts
Many applications allow you to customize keyboard shortcuts to suit your preferences. Take advantage of this feature and create shortcuts that are more intuitive and easier for you to remember.
Use Shortcut Cheat Sheets
If you’re just starting to use keyboard shortcuts, it can be helpful to have a cheat sheet nearby. You can print out a list of shortcuts for your favorite applications and keep it handy while you work.
Use Your Mouse Less
One of the main benefits of keyboard shortcuts is that they allow you to perform tasks without using your mouse. This can save you time and help you work more efficiently. Try to rely less on your mouse and more on keyboard shortcuts whenever possible.
Take Breaks
Working on a computer for long periods of time can be tiring and can strain your eyes and hands. It’s important to take breaks regularly and stretch your muscles. This can help prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
Keyboard shortcuts are a great way to improve your computer skills and increase your productivity. There are many shortcuts available for both Windows and application-specific programs, and mastering them can help you work more efficiently and reduce the strain on your hands and eyes. Take the time to learn and practice keyboard shortcuts, and customize them to suit your needs. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be using shortcuts like a pro in no time.