By Marlo Anderson – The Tech Ranch
Need a file that’s sitting on your desktop, but it’s buried under a stack of open windows? Don’t minimize them one at a time. Press Windows key + D and every window gets out of the way.
The Shortcut
- Windows key + D: shows the desktop
- Press Windows key + D again to bring your windows back
- Works on Windows 10 and Windows 11
Press It Again to Bring Everything Back
When you’re done, press Win + D a second time. Your windows come right back where you left them.
Bonus Tip: Lock Your PC with Win + L
Stepping away from your desk? Press Windows key + L to lock your PC in one press, so no one can see your screen while you’re gone. Sign back in with your PIN or password. On a Mac, press Control + ⌘ + Q.
More Keyboard Shortcuts, Explained
This is part of my Keyboard Shortcuts Explained series: quick, plain-English tips that make everyday computer work faster. Watch the whole series on YouTube and subscribe to The Tech Ranch so you don’t miss the next one.
Got a shortcut you can’t live without? Tell me in the YouTube comments and it might show up in a future video.
