Weekly Computer Tip # 210
12 October 2007

WIN is for shortcut
(Microsoft Windows)

One of the downsides of this computer age is Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) which is why I always try to wean people from the mouse. Almost a year ago I shared some of Jonathan Grant's favourite Windows (WIN) keyboard shortcuts. (See tip_181.php if you signed up between 8 December and now.) But thanks to David, Budge, Adrienne and Steph I can add two more to the list:

1. WIN + D: show Desktop; AND
2. WIN + L: lock your computer

(The WIN key is the key with the Windows logo on it, to the left of the ALT key.)

Mind you, I know keyboard shortcuts aren't everybody's cup of tea ... some of last Friday morning's course participants didn't seem keen to find out how to accomplish stuff on the computer using nothing but their keyboard. "It's an age thing", one of them said. "He's such a charmer" somebody else added. Oh no, he wasn't! He was referring to me being an old git, who was brought up using mouseless computing. OK, I know my back goes out more than I do, but I'm happy to commemorate Douglas Engelbart who started the point-and-click revolution more than 20 years before Apple. Now stop messing about and press WIN + E to access Livelink Explorer. (Or Windows Explorer if you don't have a clue what I'm talking about.)

Finally, if you are looking to create more sophisticated and impressive slide shows but the very thought of spending a day in front of a computer in a classroom puts you off ... our next half day Boost PowerPoint beyond bullet points seminar will be held at the iconic Sun House in Cambridge on the morning of 1 November. GBP97 only! (Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis after which I will try to offer alternative dates if possible. See beyond_bullet_points.html for full details.)

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