Many actions and commands that you perform with the mouse can also be performed using combinations of keys on your keyboard. And the keyboard is often faster if multiple mouse clicks are required.

Here are some shortcuts using the Windows Key, or WinKey, that work in Windows Vista. The WinKey is the key with the Windows logo shown on it and it is usually found between the Ctrl and Alt keys on your keyboard. These shortcuts are also known as Microsoft keyboard shortcuts. It is not necessary to capitalize the letter you press in combination with the WinKey.

WinKey
Open and close the Start Menu

WinKey + D
Minimize all windows to the desktop. Press again to reverse action

WinKey + E
Open Computer in Windows Explorer

WinKey + L
Lock the computer

WinKey + F
Open the Search window to find files and folders

WinKey + M
Minimise all windows

WinKey + Shift + M
Maxmise all windows after minimizing them

WinKey + R
Open the Run dialog box

WinKey + X
Open Windows Mobility Center

WinKey + E
Open Windows Explorer

WinKey + Tab
Activates Flip 3D. Use mouse wheel to cycle windows

WinKey + U
Open Ease Of Access Center

WinKey + Pause
Opens the Systems Properties dialog box

WinKey + F1
Opens Windows Help & Support

WinKey + B
Sets focus on the Task bar, Allows navigation using arrow keys; opens applications on pressing Enter key.

Apart from the standard WinKey shortcuts available to you in Vista, you can also create your own special WinKey shortcuts. To do so, you will have to use this freeware application.

WinKey is a nifty freeware from Copernicus, which has now been discontinued, but works well with Vista. It allows you to create your own WinKey Shortcuts. It : Allows you to create shortcuts with the Windows key, Starts your favorite applications, folders and Web pages instantly; Automatically creates more than 10 ADDITIONAL useful shortcuts; Supports about 200 key combinations. You can use almost any key combination and create shortcuts to system folders such as Computer, Control Panel, Recycle Bin, etc.