How to Set Hotkeys

Posted on September 2nd, 2009 by Marck

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We all want a fast, efficient way of computing, but you don’t need to have the latest hardware to optimize computing. You can use shortcut keys and hotkeys to make your computing experience faster and more efficient. Here are some ways to set hotkeys.

What are Hotkeys?

Many people still use the mouse to navigate through operating systems and programs. It may seem that there’s no big time difference between using a mouse or a keyboard to operate and navigate through programs, but you can significantly cut time and effort by using shortcut keys.

Hotkey Sequences

Most shortcut keys in programs come already pre-defined. In most programs running on Microsoft Windows, for example, the sequence for hotkeys are denoted by underlined letters in menus and dialog boxes. To trigger the hotkey sequence, you need to press the Alt key together with the underlined letter. Here are some common hotkeys in most programs that run on Microsoft Windows:

Alt+F opens the File menu.
Alt+E opens the Edit menu in many programs that allow you to edit video, text, and pictures.
Alt+H opens the Help menu.
Alt+F4 closes a window. When pressed repeatedly, it shows the dialog box for system shutdown.
Ctrl+Alt+Delete is the hotkey sequence for a warm boot.

Function Keys

The 12 function keys on a standard 101-key computer refer to certain shortcut functions that do not need to be accessed through shortcut key sequences. Here are some important function keys found in many programs:

F1 is the shortcut key for Help.
F2 renames files and folders in Windows Explorer.
F3 enables searching text.
F5 refreshes the program to allocate more memory.
F11 and F12 toggles between windowed modes and fullscreen.

Defining Hotkeys

There are two ways to define hotkeys:

Hardware-Specific Hotkeys

Some computer keyboards come with hotkeys that you can configure to launch specific programs or functions for your computer. Some of these utilities include:

Quick-launch buttons for launching e-mail clients and Internet browsers.
Media playback buttons.

Most specialty keyboards come with installer CDs where you can install drivers and utilities that can enable you to configure and use these shortcut keys. You may also download drivers and utilities from the manufacturer’s website.

Program-Specific Hotkeys

Hotkeys are very useful in computer games, where the gamer needs a fast and accessible way to perform certain actions like switching weapons, commanding a team, or moving through a menu. Most gamers already memorize the shortcut keys from the manual or from extensive practice, while some prefer to designate specific hotkeys from the “Options” menu of the game. (see Top tips to you become a fighting game expert)

Hotkeys are extremely important if you want a fast and efficient way of accessing your computer’s most vital and important functions. With these tips, you can have a faster computing experience even with an entry-level or mid-range computer. If you enjoy reading this article, might as well read how to get rid of computer slowness.