Technology Shortcuts Every Teacher Should Know
Posted by Erica Warren on
Mastering Keyboard and Device Shortcuts to Save Time and Boost Productivity
Keyboard shortcuts are one of the simplest ways to save time and work more efficiently—whether you’re writing a paper, designing a presentation, or managing daily tasks. Instead of clicking through menus, shortcuts let you perform actions instantly and stay in your flow.
Get a free Download of these printable shortcuts: CLICK HERE
This guide includes both Mac and PC shortcuts. Most commands are nearly identical—just remember:
Command (⌘) on a Mac = Control (Ctrl) on a PC
🖥️ Universal Shortcuts for Mac and PC
| Action | Mac Shortcut | PC Shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Copy | Command + C | Ctrl + C |
| Paste | Command + V | Ctrl + V |
| Cut | Command + X | Ctrl + X |
| Undo | Command + Z | Ctrl + Z |
| Redo | Command + Y | Ctrl + Y |
| Select All | Command + A | Ctrl + A |
| Save | Command + S | Ctrl + S |
| Command + P | Ctrl + P | |
| New Document / Tab | Command + N | Ctrl + N |
| Find | Command + F | Ctrl + F |
| Bookmark Page | Command + D | Ctrl + D |
| Quit / Close App | Command + Q | Alt + F4 |
| Switch Between Apps | Command + Tab | Alt + Tab |
| Zoom In / Out | Command + + / – | Ctrl + + / – |
| Bold / Italic / Underline | Command + B / I / U | Ctrl + B / I / U |
🍏 Mac-Only Shortcuts Worth Knowing
| Action | Shortcut | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Force Quit | Command + Option + Esc | Quickly close a frozen app |
| Hide Active Window | Command + H | Keeps your workspace clean |
| Minimize Window | Command + M | Sends the active window to the dock |
| Screenshot – Full Screen | Command + Shift + 3 | Saves an image of the full screen |
| Screenshot – Selection | Command + Shift + 4 | Capture a chosen portion of your screen |
| Preview File | Spacebar | Quick Look without opening |
| System Menu | Control + Eject | Sleep, shut down, or restart dialog |
📱 Shortcuts and Hidden Tricks on Other Devices
-
iPhone: Double-tap the spacebar for a period, space, and capitalization.
-
Selfies: Use the volume button as a shutter for steadier shots.
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Ask Siri: “Open Notes” or “Launch Calendar” instead of searching manually.
-
Google Search: Type define [word] for an instant definition.
-
Flights: Enter your flight number in Google for gate and departure info.
-
Camera Focus: Half-press the shutter before taking a photo to reduce lag.
-
Silence Calls: Press any side button to stop your phone from ringing.
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Dropdown Menus: Type the first letter repeatedly to scroll through options quickly.
🧠 Why Shortcuts Support Executive Functioning
Shortcuts don’t just save time—they strengthen executive functioning skills like organization, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. By automating routine actions, your brain conserves energy for higher-level thinking and problem-solving.
Start by mastering three or four shortcuts that fit your daily workflow. Once they become second nature, add more. Over time, you’ll notice increased efficiency, focus, and ease—both on your devices and in how you manage your day.
Shortcuts often require you to hold down one or more modifier keys while pressing another key. For example, to use the print shortcut, Command-P (print), hold down Command and press P, and then release both keys. Here is a list of the modifier keys:
- Command ⌘
- Shift ⇧
- Option/alt ⌥
- Control ⌃
- Caps Lock ⇪
- Function fn
To get a free, printable copy of this shortcut list, click on the image to download or click here: free PDF
I hope you find these tricks helpful!
Cheers, Dr. Erica Warren
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