The expert called "hot keys" for convenient work on the computer

Using "hot keys" — combinations of buttons for quick execution of commands — allows you to save dozens of minutes every day and reduces the strain on your hands when working at a computer. Artem Pishchulin, brand communications manager for the Russian computer equipment manufacturer iRU, told Izvestia on January 29.

According to the expert, the basic set of commands that most users know includes copy, paste, undo, and highlight operations for all text. In Windows, combinations with the Ctrl key (Ctrl + C / V / X / Z / A) are used for this, and in macOS — with the Command key (⌘). The difference between the systems lies mainly in this modifier key, while the logic of actions is the same.

"Combinations that allow you to manage windows and applications are useful for effective multitasking. In Windows, these are Alt+ Tab for switching between programs, Win+D for quick access to the desktop, and Win + arrows for pinning a window to a part of the screen. In macOS, similar functions are performed by Command + Tab, Control + arrows to switch between desktops and Command + M to minimize the window," Pishchulin shared.

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A quick search through the system and files is also activated using the keys: in Windows — Win + S, in macOS — Command + Space (Spotlight). For convenient file management, Windows uses Win + E (opening File Explorer), and macOS uses Command + N (opening Finder).

In browsers and text editors, there are universal combinations that work in both operating systems, replacing Ctrl with Command for Mac: opening a new tab (Ctrl/Command + T), closing a tab (Ctrl/Command + W), restoring a closed tab (Ctrl/Command + Shift + T) and search the page (Ctrl/Command + F).

Pishchulin noted that the "hotkeys" can be customized for individual tasks, especially useful for professionals working in professional software. In macOS, the configuration is performed through the system settings, in Windows — using third-party utilities or settings of specific programs.

"You don't need to master all the combinations at once. The expert recommends starting with the five to seven most used combinations and gradually adding new ones. In just a few weeks, this will significantly increase the speed of work and reduce dependence on the mouse. He also recalled the importance of locking the computer during a break: Windows uses Win + L for this, macOS uses Control + Command + Q, which is especially important when working with confidential data," the specialist concluded.

On December 24, 2025, Galen Hunt, the company's lead engineer, announced Microsoft's plans to translate the code of software products into the Rust language. It was noted that the task will mainly be performed by artificial intelligence (AI) agents.

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