In recent years, working from home has transitioned from a novelty to a mainstream reality for millions of Canadians. The flexibility, comfort, and time saved on commuting are undeniable perks, but remote work also brings challenges: managing distractions, staying organized, handling multiple devices, and maintaining productivity across different digital platforms. The good news is that everyday technology—when used strategically—can dramatically simplify life at home, save time, and reduce frustration. Beyond fancy gadgets or expensive software, the real game-changers are often simple shortcuts, hidden features, and clever routines built around the technology most of us already have.
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1. Keyboard Shortcuts: The Unsung Heroes of Productivity
The first and most accessible set of shortcuts comes from the keyboard. Across operating systems—Windows, MacOS, and Linux—keyboard shortcuts allow you to execute tasks without removing your hands from the keys, saving seconds or minutes that quickly add up.
Some universally useful shortcuts include:
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Copy, Cut, Paste – Ctrl/Cmd + C, X, V
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Undo/Redo – Ctrl/Cmd + Z / Ctrl/Cmd + Y
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Switch between applications – Alt + Tab (Windows) / Cmd + Tab (Mac)
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Screenshot – Windows: Win + Shift + S; Mac: Cmd + Shift + 4
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Close and open tabs – Ctrl/Cmd + T (open), Ctrl/Cmd + W (close)
Beyond the basics, many applications have their own sets of shortcuts. Email platforms, project management tools, and word processors often hide time-saving features. For example, Gmail users can press “C” to compose a new message, “E” to archive, or “/” to search instantly. Learning these small shortcuts can make navigating your day less stressful, especially during long stretches of typing or responding to messages.
