Revised May 4, 2011
The primary focus of this document is Windows computers but much of it also applies to Apple computers. For more information, search for “keyboard shortcuts” in their online help.
Advantages
Executing a command via the keyboard can be quicker than by using
the mouse.
You may not be able to see the mouse pointer due to a vision impairment.
You may not be able to physically operate a mouse due to pain or disability.
Disadvantages/Warnings
Using a keyboard to run Windows has many advantages over using a mouse
but beware of the following:
|
1 |
Using the keyboard will take longer to learn. |
|
2 |
You may get a sore neck if you have to look at keyboard. Learn to touch type. Putting tactile markers on keys you have difficulty finding can help. |
|
3 |
Just as it is possible to overuse your mouse, keyboard overuse is also possible. The best approach is balance. Use your mouse when the keyboard alternative requires more effort. |
|
4 |
If a keyboard command requires pressing 2 or more keys simultaneously, use 2 hands instead of adopting an awkward posture with one. |
Learning to use Windows without a mouse
1) Keyboard Guides on the Web
| If you are using an application that is not listed below, please let me know and I will add it. |
Lotus Notes
Microsoft
Windows and Other Microsoft Applications
Mozilla
The remainder of this document provides additional examples, resources and
tips on how to find and remember keyboard shortcuts.
2) Look for underlined
letters in menu bars, dialogue boxes, etc
To activate a function or menu, press the associated <underlined
letter> or press <Alt>+<underlined letter> (i.e., press and hold down the <Alt> key, press and release
the underlined letter, then release the <Alt> key). This can take some trial and error, but normally you need to
use the <Alt> key if pressing <underlined letter> alone will be interpreted as a character in a document or dialogue
box.
| In newer versions of Windows and some applications,
the underlines may not appear until you press the <Alt>
key. The underlines can be made to appear permanently. For Windows XP, follow the these steps (other operating systems may be similar):
|
Additional shortcuts are shown in the drop down menus. However, the
shortcuts you see there are for reminder purposes only. You won't
be able to use them while the drop down menu is open. You'll need
to close the menu first (usually by pressing <Esc> twice).
3) To learn more
shortcuts, point at icons or get your Microsoft Office Assistant to
include shortcuts in your daily tips.
To set this up for Microsoft Word 2002 (and possibly later versions as well):
<Alt> +<T> (Tools)
<C> (Customize)
<Alt> +<O> (Options)
<Alt> +<H> (Show Shortcut Keys In Screen Tips)
<Alt> +<T> (Show Screen Tips On Toolbars)
<Enter> (Close, since Close is the default
button for this dialogue box)
NOTE: Always be sure to check to see what the default button
is before you press <Enter>.
4) Use Windows on-line
help
For Windows XP (other operating systems may have something
similar):
<Start key> or <Ctrl>+<Esc> (start
menu)
<H> (Help)
Look up "keyboard shortcuts"
5) Use on-line help
for specific applications
For Microsoft Word 2007 (other applications may have something
similar):
<F1> or click on the question mark icon (Help)
Look up "keyboard shortcuts"
For more information
For further advice, please don't hesitate to contact Mike Papakyriakou
at mikepapa@yorku.ca or ext
33477 or take a look at more office
ergonomics tips.
