As we continue to rely heavily on computers to carry out various tasks and increase our productivity, it is essential to learn shortcuts that make our work easier and faster. One such shortcut is the ability to quickly close open windows using shortcut keys. It might seem like a small trick, but it can save you time if you use it regularly.

The first thing you need to understand is that there are different ways to close open windows using shortcut keys, depending on the operating system you are using. For instance, Windows and Mac operating systems have different shortcut keys, so it is crucial to learn the correct shortcuts for your OS.

Here are some of the most commonly used shortcut keys to quickly close windows:

Windows operating system

There are several ways to close open windows using shortcut keys in the Windows operating system.

1. Alt + F4

Perhaps the most popular and easiest way to close any open window in Windows is to hold down the Alt key and press F4. This combination will immediately close the active window, without the need to use your mouse.

2. Windows key + D

If you have multiple windows open and want to minimize or close them all at once, the Windows key + D shortcut will help you do that. This combination will minimize or maximize all open windows on your desktop or bring up your desktop if your work is maximized.

3. Ctrl + W or Ctrl+F4

Another quick way to close a single window in Windows is by using the Ctrl + W or Ctrl + F4 shortcut. What makes this combination unique is that it works in different applications such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, or web browsers.

Mac OS

If you are a Mac user, you can use the following shortcuts to close open windows quickly:

1. Command + W or Command + Q

To close a single window in a Mac, you can use the Command + W or Command + Q shortcut. Hitting the Command + W combination will close the active window, while Command + Q will close the entire application.

2. Option + Command + Esc

In case your Mac is facing issues that require you to force quit all open applications or windows, you can use the Option + Command + Esc shortcut. This combination will bring up the force quit dialog box, from which you can select the app that you want to close.

In conclusion, whether you use a Windows or Mac operating system, quickly closing open windows using shortcut keys can save you time and improve your productivity. Practice and master these shortcuts, and you will notice a significant change in how much time you spend working on your computer.