Useful keyboard shortcuts
This page provides an overview of keyboard shortcuts that can help you use your desktop and applications more efficiently. If you cannot use a mouse or pointing device at all, see Keyboard navigation for more information on navigating user interfaces with only the keyboard.
Getting around the desktop
Alt+F1 or the Super key
Switch between the Activities overview and desktop. In the overview, start typing to instantly search your applications, contacts, and documents.
Alt+F2
Pop up command window (for quickly running commands)
Super+Tab
Quickly switch between windows. Hold down Shift for reverse order.
Super+
Switch between windows from the same application, or from the selected application after Super+Tab.
This shortcut uses key is above Tab. On all other keyboards, the shortcut is Super plus the key above Tab..
Ctrl+Alt+Tab
Give keyboard focus to the top bar. In the Activities overview, switch keyboard focus between the top bar, dash, windows overview, applications list, and search field. Use the arrow keys to navigate.
It is not currently possible to use the arrow keys to navigate the windows overview. To switch windows, exit the overview and use Super+Tab and Super+
Super+A
Show the list of applications.
Super+Page Up and Super+Page Down
Switch between workspaces.
Super+Shift+Page Up and Super+Shift+Page Down
Move the current window to a different workspace.
Ctrl+Alt+Delete
Log out.
Ctrl+Alt+L
Lock the screen.
Super+M
Open the message tray. Press Super+M again or Esc to close.
Common editing shortcuts
Capturing from the screen
More Information
Desktop, apps & windows — Introduction, keyboard shortcuts, calendar, notifications…
Keyboard — Keyboard layouts, cursor blinking, keyboard accessibility…
Tips & tricks — Special characters, middle click shortcuts…
See Also
Keyboard navigation — Use applications and the desktop without a mouse.
Set keyboard shortcuts — Define or change keyboard shortcuts in Keyboard settings.
What is the Menu key? — The Menu key launches a context menu with the keyboard rather than with a right-click.
What is the Super key? — The Super key opens the activities overview. You can usually find it next to the Alt key on your keyboard.
