Keyboard shortcuts are widely praised for boosting expert efficiency. However, over-reliance on shortcuts can create accessibility barriers, steep learning curves, and poor discoverability. This paper argues for minimizing shortcut key usage in user interfaces by prioritizing intuitive controls, on-screen actions, and alternative input methods. We present guidelines for designers to reduce cognitive load and improve inclusivity without sacrificing productivity.
Here are the shortcuts for every major operating system. minimize shortcut key
: Adobe Photoshop (historically shortcut-heavy) Problem : New users couldn’t find “Merge Layers” (shortcut Ctrl+E ). Solution : Added a visible Layer menu option, right-click context menu, and a “Search commands” bar. Result : Increased feature usage among novices, while power users kept shortcuts. Keyboard shortcuts are widely praised for boosting expert
This is the "panic button." It instantly clears your screen. Hitting it again brings everything back. Windows Key + Home . We present guidelines for designers to reduce cognitive
This sends the window down into the right side of your Dock. Command (⌘) + H .
You can minimize a window in roughly 0.2 seconds with a shortcut, compared to the 1-2 seconds it takes to aim and click a mouse.