shortcut key

Quick command trigger

A shortcut key is a key or key combination that triggers a command without navigating menus: Ctrl+C is the shortcut key for copy.

Also called a keyboard shortcut or hotkey.

Power users memorize shortcut keys to work faster; casual users may never learn them.

keyboard

keybind

Key assigned to command

altOutside the mainstream
shiftMovement or work period
commandAuthoritative instruction given

F1 · F3 · F5 · esc · tab · enter · spacebar · delete · backspace · modifier

commands

copy

Identical reproduction made

pasteThick sticky substance
cutSeverance or reduction
undoReverse a prior action

redo · save · print · find · replace · close · quit · new · open · refresh

workflow

time-saver

Efficiency-boosting method

efficiencyProductive without waste
streamlineRemove unnecessary elements
productivityOutput relative to input

automation · macro · speed · convenience · workflow · multitask · navigate · execute

interface

menu

List of available dishes

toolbarSoftware button strip
ribbonSlender ornamental strip
dropdownExpandable selection menu

tooltip · accessibility · navigation · click · icon · button · dialog · toggle · gesture

Categories

Quick Fixesduct tape fix, band-aid, superglue, duct tape, safety pin

Opposites

input method

shortcut keymenu selection

Chosen dish or option

menu navigation · dropdown menu · context menu · point-and-click · long way

efficiency/directness

shortcut keylong way

Considerable distance traveled

input modality

shortcut keymouse click

Pressing the pointer button

gesture control · voice command · point-and-click · touch input

Family

shortcut, shortcuts, keystroke, hotkey, keyboard shortcut, shortcut keys, function key

Familiarity: Top 200,000
Profile: Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G