What’s the keyboard shortcut to directly open the Windows Task Manager?

Ctrl + Shift + Escape is the Windows shortcut that directly opens the Task Manager with no additional input. This is a quick and efficient way to access the Task Manager for troubleshooting or managing applications. Alternatively, the widely recognized shortcut Ctrl + Alt + Delete also provides access to the Task Manager. However, this shortcut brings up a menu with additional options, such as locking your PC, switching users, logging off, or shutting down.

For those who frequently use keyboard shortcuts, here are some other timeless and highly useful Windows shortcuts:

Lock your PC: Windows key + L
Minimize all windows: Windows key + M
Minimize the active window: Windows key + Down Arrow
Close the active window or exit the current app: Alt + F4
Display properties for the selected item: Alt + Enter
Switch to the most recently used window: Alt + Tab
Rename the selected item: F2

Keyboard shortcuts like these can significantly improve productivity and streamline everyday tasks.

Want to discover even more time-saving shortcuts? Check out our Shortcut Extravaganza feature for tips and tricks across a variety of platforms and operating systems.