keyboard shortcuts for ubuntu
Ubuntu makes use of a variety of keyboard shortcuts for quick access to built-in functions. Some of these shortcuts are similar to those found under Windows, while some are unique
shortcut keys description
Alt+F4 Quit application
F1 Context-sensitive help
F10 Open a program’s File menu; use left/right cursor keys to move between other menus
Alt+F1 Open main menu; use left/right cursor keys to move between menus
Alt+F2 Open “Run Application” dialog box, whereby applications can be started by typing their
filenames
Alt+Tab Switch between applications
Shift+Alt+up cursor Switch between applications using a live preview of each window (like Mac OS’s
Exposé feature)
Ctrl+Alt+ left/right cursor Switch between virtual desktops
Windows+E Switch between virtual desktops by viewing a live preview of each desktop (double-
click to select)
Windows+M Invert colors on desktop (useful for partially-sighted people, or if using the computer
at night)
Windows+N Invert colors in top-most program window
Ctrl+Alt+Backspace Restart the graphical subsystem (X); should only be used in emergencies because
the restart is instant and without confirmation—all data will be lost!
Alt+F9 Minimize window
Alt+F10 Maximize window
Alt+F5 Restore window after maximizing
Alt+F7 Allows you to move window using cursor keys; hit Enter when done
Alt+F8 Allows you resize window using cursor keys; hit Enter when done
PrintScreen Take screenshot of whole desktop
Alt+PrintScreen Take screenshot of currently active program window
