How to use Windows File Explorer with 7 keyboard shortcuts

Windows File Explorer is an essential tool for managing files and folders, used daily by millions of users. However, most users only use a small portion of its features. Knowing and using keyboard shortcuts can significantly improve efficiency and productivity, reducing the time spent with the mouse.

This guide is aimed at technical users who want to optimize the use of File Explorer, learning practical and immediately applicable keyboard shortcuts. By the end of the guide, you will be able to navigate through folders, open files, and manage windows more quickly and efficiently.

• Navigation shortcuts: You will learn how to move between folders without using the mouse.
• Window management: You will discover how to open new application windows and maximize active windows.
• Quick access to properties: You will learn how to view the properties of files and folders with a simple shortcut.
• Administrator access: You will discover how to launch applications as an administrator without going through the context menu.
• Desktop view: You will learn how to view the desktop without minimizing windows.

Prerequisites

• Operating system: Windows 10 or later
• Hardware: Standard keyboard and mouse
• Software: Windows File Explorer

File Explorer Keyboard Shortcuts: Practical Guide

By the end of this guide, you will be able to use Windows File Explorer more efficiently thanks to seven fundamental keyboard shortcuts.

• Step 1: Open File Explorer
• Step 2: Configure the opening window
• Step 3: Navigate through folders
  • Press Alt + Left Arrow to go back to the previous folder following the full path.
  • Press Alt + Right Arrow to move forward one step in the history.
• Step 4: Open the properties of a file or folder
• Step 5: Open a separate new window of an application
  • Hold down Shift while clicking on the program icon in the application bar.
  • Alternatively, click the middle mouse button on the program icon.
• Step 6: Run an application as administrator
  • Hold down Ctrl + Shift while double-clicking the program.
• Step 7: View the desktop without minimizing windows
• Step 8: Maximize the active window

VERIFICATION AND TROUBLESHOOTING: How to test if it works and what to do if it fails

After learning and practicing the keyboard shortcuts for Windows File Explorer, it is important to verify that they work correctly and know how to troubleshoot any issues.

Testing the shortcuts

• Win + E: Press the Win and E keys simultaneously. A new File Explorer window should open. Verify that the window opens correctly and that you can navigate through the folders.
• Alt + Left/Right/Up Arrow: Navigate through the folders using these combinations. Ensure that the navigation is smooth and that the folders open correctly.
• Alt + Enter: Select a file or folder and press Alt + Enter. The Properties window should open. Verify that all information is displayed correctly.
• Shift + Click or Middle Mouse Button: Open a separate new window of a running program. Ensure that the new window opens correctly and is independent of the original window.
• Ctrl + Shift + Double Click: Launch an application as administrator. Verify that the application starts with administrator privileges.
• Win + Comma: Press Win + Comma to view the desktop. Ensure that the desktop appears instantly and that all windows return to their original position when you release the keys.
• Win + Up Arrow: Maximize the active window. Verify that the window occupies the entire screen and that the rest of the windows visually go to the background.

Troubleshooting

If a shortcut does not work as expected, here are some steps to follow:

• Check accessibility settings: Some accessibility settings can interfere with keyboard shortcuts. Go to Settings > Accessibility and make sure there are no settings that might cause problems.
• Update Windows: Make sure the operating system is updated to the latest version. Updates can fix bugs and improve compatibility with keyboard shortcuts.
• Restart the computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can solve temporary problems that might interfere with the functioning of the shortcuts.
• Check running applications: Some applications can interfere with keyboard shortcuts. Close unnecessary applications and check if the problem persists.
• Use safe mode: Start the computer in safe mode to check if the shortcuts work correctly. This can help identify if a specific application or service is causing the problem.

Educational Summary and Invitation to Practice

By the end of this guide, you will have learned seven fundamental keyboard shortcuts to optimize the use of Windows File Explorer. These techniques will allow you to work more efficiently, reducing mouse use and improving your productivity.

• Win + E: Instantly open a new File Explorer window.
• Alt + Enter: Open the Properties of a file or folder directly.
• Shift + Click: Open a separate new window of a running program.
• Win + Up Arrow: Maximize the active window for visual focus.

Practice these shortcuts daily to make them automatic. Once assimilated, you will notice a significant improvement in your work efficiency.