shortcut
Time-saving alternative
A shortcut is a quicker or more direct route than the usual one: We took a shortcut through the park.
The meaning extends to any method that saves time or effort: There are no shortcuts to learning a language.
In computing, a shortcut is a keyboard combination or icon that provides quick access to a function or file.
Programmed key combination
- keybindingKey assigned to command
- macroRecorded command sequence
- altOutside the mainstream
- shiftMovement or work period
function · keystroke · keypress · combo · bind · trigger · shorthand · accelerator
Reducing required duration
- streamlineRemove unnecessary elements
- optimizeMake maximally effective
- expediteSpeed up a process
- simplifyMake less complex
accelerate · lifehack · timesaver · productivity · speedup · workflow · fast-track · abbreviation
hotkey
Programmed key combination
- keybindingKey assigned to command
- macroRecorded command sequence
- altOutside the mainstream
shift · function · keystroke · keypress · combo · bind · trigger · shorthand · accelerator · F1
time-saving
Reducing required duration
- streamlineRemove unnecessary elements
- optimizeMake maximally effective
- expediteSpeed up a process
simplify · accelerate · lifehack · timesaver · productivity · speedup · workflow · fast-track · abbreviation
workaround
Makeshift bypass of difficulty
- circumventAvoid by going around
- sidestepEvade by moving aside
- skipTo deliberately exclude
evasion · dodge · avoidance · reroute · diversion · loophole · hack · cheat · exploit · end-run
detour
Alternate path around obstruction
crosscut · sidestreet · lane · passageway · trail · footpath · towpath · bridleway · greenway · pathway
- traveltrip, trips, journey, journeys, travel
- computingcomputer, computers, software, hardware, code
- alternate routesbypass, detour, alternate route, reroute, diversion
- game boardsgame board, squares, spaces, tiles, hex
- Mazesmaze, labyrinth, corn maze, hedge maze, ball maze
- pathspathway, trail, walkway, footpath, walking path
shortcutlong way
Considerable distance traveled
the long way around · detour · scenic route · main road · long way around
shortcutby the book
Following established procedures exactly
obey · due process · observe · follow the rules · official channels
- keyboard shortcutsKey combinations for commands
- shortcut keyKeystroke executing commands instantly
- desktop shortcut