How do you use keyboard shortcuts and hotkeys to switch between multiple monitors quickly and easily? (2024)

Keyboard shortcuts and hotkeys are combinations of keys that perform specific actions or commands without using the mouse or the graphical user interface. For example, Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V are keyboard shortcuts for copying and pasting, while Win+L is a hotkey for locking your computer. Keyboard shortcuts and hotkeys can save you time, reduce errors, and improve accessibility.

One of the most common keyboard shortcuts for switching between multiple monitors is Win+P, which opens a menu that lets you choose how to project your display. You can select PC screen only, Duplicate, Extend, or Second screen only. Extend is the option that allows you to use multiple monitors as one large workspace, while Duplicate shows the same content on both screens. You can use the arrow keys or the mouse to select an option and press Enter to apply it.

Another way to switch between multiple monitors is to use hotkeys that move your active window from one screen to another. The default hotkeys for this are Win+Shift+Left arrow and Win+Shift+Right arrow, which move your window to the left or right monitor, respectively. You can also use Win+Left arrow and Win+Right arrow to snap your window to the left or right half of the current monitor, or Win+Up arrow and Win+Down arrow to maximize or minimize your window.

If you want to customize the default keyboard shortcuts and hotkeys for switching between multiple monitors, you can use the built-in Windows settings instead of third-party software or editing the registry. To do this, open the Settings app, click on System and then on Display. Scroll down to the Multiple displays section and click on Advanced display settings. Click on Display adapter properties for Display 1 (or whichever monitor you want to customize), click on the Monitor tab and then on the Properties button. Click on the Driver tab and then on the Update Driver button. Select Generic PnP Monitor and click Next, Close, and OK to apply the changes. Repeat these steps for each monitor you want to customize, then restart your computer to activate the new drivers. After restarting your computer, open the Settings app again and click on Devices and then Keyboard. Scroll down to the Keyboard shortcuts section and click on Advanced keyboard settings. Click on Language bar options and then on Advanced Key Settings. Click on Change Key Sequence and select the keyboard shortcut or hotkey you want to change. Click OK and then Apply to save the changes. Repeat these steps for each keyboard shortcut or hotkey you want to change.

Sometimes, keyboard shortcuts and hotkeys may not function correctly or at all, due to various issues such as outdated drivers, conflicting software, hardware problems, or user mistakes. To fix this, ensure your monitors are connected and detected by your computer by pressing Win+P. Also, make sure your keyboard is working and the layout and language settings are correct. Additionally, check if your drivers are up to date and compatible with your monitors and keyboard. Furthermore, make sure you are using the right keyboard shortcut or hotkey for your action and monitor. Lastly, close any unnecessary or suspicious applications or processes that are running in the background or in the system tray to avoid interference with your keyboard shortcuts and hotkeys.

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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