Whiteboard Keyboard Shortcuts
Many users find that using an external keyboard with keyboard shortcuts for Microsoft Whiteboard helps them work more efficiently. For users with mobility or vision disabilities, keyboard shortcuts can be easier than using the touchscreen, and are an essential alternative to using a mouse.
The following is a list of common keyboard shortcuts in Whiteboard.
Notes:
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The shortcuts in this topic refer to the US keyboard layout. Keys for other layouts might not correspond exactly to the keys on a US keyboard.
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A plus sign (+) in a shortcut means that you need to press multiple keys at the same time.
Universal Shortcuts
Press |
To do this |
||
---|---|---|---|
Alt + S |
Change the pointer to selecting mode, allowing you to select objects on the canvas. |
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Alt + W |
Open the ink toolbar and select the most recently used pen. |
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Alt + W + 1 |
Open the ink toolbar and select the first pen. |
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Alt + W + 2 |
Open the ink toolbar and select the second pen. |
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Alt + W + 3 |
Open the ink toolbar and select the third pen. |
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Alt + X |
Open the ink toolbar and select the Eraser tool. |
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Alt + Q |
Open the ink toolbar and select the Lasso tool. |
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Alt + H |
Open the ink toolbar and select the Highlighter pen. |
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Alt + L |
Open the ink toolbar and select the Laser pointer. |
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Alt + A |
Open the ink toolbar and select the most recently used pen in single arrow mode. If you are already in ink mode, Alt + A will toggle single arrow mode on/off. |
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Alt + Shift + A |
Open the ink toolbar and select the most recently used pen in double arrow mode. If you are already in ink mode, Alt + Shift + A will toggle double arrow mode on/off. |
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Alt + R |
Toggle the canvas Ruler tool. |
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Alt + Plus |
Zoom the canvas in. |
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Alt + Minus |
Zoom the canvas out. |
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Ctrl + A |
Select all objects on the canvas. |
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Ctrl + V |
Paste an object from the clipboard onto the canvas. |
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Ctrl + Z/Y |
Undo/redo the most recent canvas edit. |
Shortcuts for selecting objects
These shortcuts only work when the keyboard focus is on the object you’re trying to select.
Press |
To do this |
---|---|
Enter/Spacebar |
Select the object. |
Ctrl+Enter/Spacebar |
Add (or remove) the focused object to a multi-selection. |
Shortcuts that work with a single selection
These shortcuts only work when the keyboard focus is on a selected object.
Press |
To do this |
||
---|---|---|---|
Alt + B |
Convert the selected ink object into an ink shape. |
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Ctrl + C |
Copy the selected object. |
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Ctrl + Shift + ] |
Bring the select object to the front of other objects on the canvas. |
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Ctrl + Shift + [ |
Put the selected object behind other objects on the canvas. |
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Esc |
Deselects the object. |
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Del |
Delete the selected object. |
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Arrow keys |
Moves the selected object a fixed amount in the direction of the arrow key. |
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Shift + arrow keys |
Increase/decrease the size of the selected object. |
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Alt + Left/Right arrow keys |
Rotate the selected object clockwise/anti-clockwise. |
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Shift + Alt + arrow keys |
For an object that supports non-proportional sizing, increase or decrease the object’s width/height. |
Shortcuts that work with a multi-selection
These shortcuts work if the keyboard focus is on the multi-selection.
Press |
To do this |
||
---|---|---|---|
Ctrl + C |
Copy the selected object. |
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Del |
Delete the selected object. |
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Esc |
Deselects the object. |
||
Arrow keys |
Moves the selected object a fixed amount in the direction of the arrow key. |
Mouse keyboard modifiers
Press |
To do this |
---|---|
Spacebar + drag on canvas |
Hold down the Spacebar to temporarily switch to pan mode. |
Shift + drag on canvas |
Hold down the Shift key to enable multi-select with mouse drag. |
Ctrl + left-click |
Add (or remove) the clicked object to a multi-selection. |
Ctrl + right-click |
Summon the browser context menu (right-click normally summons the canvas context menu). |
Shift + drag (on shape size handle) |
Hold down the Shift key while dragging on a shape size handle to make the resize proportional. |
Shift + drag (while inserting a shape) |
Hold the Shift key while inserting a shape to temporarily switch from moving the shape rather than resizing it. |
Shortcuts for editing a text object (sticky note or text box)
The text object needs to be selected and have keyboard focus for these shortcuts to work.
Press this key |
To do this |
---|---|
Enter/Spacebar |
Open the text object for text editing. |
Shortcuts for zooming and panning the canvas
The keyboard focus needs to be on the canvas for these shortcuts to work.
Press this key |
To do this |
---|---|
Arrow keys |
Pan the canvas in the direction of the arrow key. |
Shift + Up/Down arrow |
Zoom the canvas in/out. |
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Microsoft Whiteboard is a powerful digital canvas that enables teams to collaborate and brainstorm ideas in real-time. To get the most out of this tool, it’s essential to master the Microsoft Whiteboard Shortcuts
These shortcuts can help you work more efficiently, streamline your workflow, and unlock the full potential of Microsoft Whiteboard. In this article, we’ll share a comprehensive list of Microsoft Whiteboard Shortcut keys to help you become a power user.
Action | MS Whiteboard Shortcuts |
---|---|
Copy the item to the clipboard | Ctrl + C |
Cut item to the clipboard | Ctrl + X |
Paste the item from the clipboard | Ctrl + V |
Undo the last action | Ctrl + Z |
Redo undone action | Ctrl + Y |
Select all items | Ctrl + A |
Move selected item | Arrow keys |
Rotate selected object | Alt + Left Arrow keys/Right Arrow keys |
Resize selected object | Shift + Up Arrow keys/Down Arrow keys |
Clear canvas | Ctrl + A then Delete |
Select multiple objects | Shift + Left Mouse Click |
Delete items | Delete |
Show context menu | Shift + F10 |
By incorporating these shortcut keys into your workflow, you’ll be able to create, edit, and share your whiteboard content with ease. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or business professional, Microsoft Whiteboard Shortcut keys can help you unlock the full potential of this powerful tool. Start using these shortcut keys today and take your Microsoft Whiteboard experience to the next level!
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In the age of digital collaboration, tools like Microsoft Whiteboard have transformed the way teams brainstorm, visualize ideas, and facilitate learning. With its intuitive interface, endless canvas, and capabilities for real-time collaboration, Microsoft Whiteboard allows users to create, connect, and organize their thoughts efficiently. However, just like any other productivity tool, mastering its features can significantly enhance your experience. One way to achieve this is by familiarizing yourself with keyboard shortcuts. These shortcuts can help streamline your workflow, allowing you to focus more on creativity and less on navigation. This article will explore nine essential Microsoft Whiteboard keyboard shortcuts that are bound to enhance your productivity.
1. The Power of Quick Selection: Ctrl + A
When working in Microsoft Whiteboard, managing multiple elements can become cumbersome. Enter the universal select-all shortcut: Ctrl + A. This command allows you to quickly select all items on your canvas, making it convenient to manipulate, move, or delete content without having to tediously click on each one.
Usage Tip: After selecting all elements, you can group them using Ctrl + G. This not only consolidates your items but also allows for easy manipulation later.
2. Instant Zoom and Focus: Ctrl + Plus / Ctrl + Minus
Navigating a vast canvas filled with ideas can be overwhelming. However, Microsoft Whiteboard has a solution with its zoom-in and zoom-out shortcuts. Use Ctrl + Plus (+) to zoom in and Ctrl + Minus (-) to zoom out. This functionality enables you to get a closer look at intricate details or pull back to view the entire layout of your whiteboard, respectively.
Usage Tip: If you need to quickly navigate to a specific section without losing context, the zoom feature becomes indispensable. For instance, zoom into a particular brainstorming bubble, refine your thoughts, and then zoom out to see how it fits into the larger picture.
3. Seamless Undo and Redo: Ctrl + Z and Ctrl + Y
Mistakes and revisions are part and parcel of any creative process. Microsoft Whiteboard’s undo and redo functionalities offer an easy way to tackle this. You can swiftly revert an action with Ctrl + Z and restore it with Ctrl + Y.
Usage Tip: Use these shortcuts liberally during brainstorming sessions or overlapping ideas. The ability to quickly undo changes encourages experimentation, allowing you to test different ideas without fear of permanent deletion.
4. Object Manipulation Made Simple: Shift + Arrow Keys
When it comes to arranging objects on your whiteboard, precision is key. By holding down the Shift key while using the arrow keys, you can move selected objects in small increments. This adjustment is particularly useful when positioning elements in a way that needs to be meticulously aligned.
Usage Tip: If you have a grid or specific layout in mind, using these keys can help you snap objects into place accurately, giving your board a more professional appearance.
5. Engaging and Creating: P and I
In Microsoft Whiteboard, creating new content is a constant activity. The keyboard shortcuts P and I allow you to quickly add a pen and an ink shape to your whiteboard, respectively. By simply pressing P, you can initiate drawing mode, while I allows the insertion of an ink shape that can be customized and edited later.
Usage Tip: Use these shortcuts to switch between different forms of content creation seamlessly. For example, while outlining your thoughts, switch to ink mode (P), and then back to shapes (I) to bring structure to your ideas progressively.
6. Text Entry Made Easy: T
Adding text to your whiteboard is as simple as pressing T. This command opens a text box at the cursor’s location, letting you start typing immediately. This efficiency is crucial during brainstorming sessions where ideas flow rapidly.
Usage Tip: Use this shortcut to drop key phrases or thoughts quickly. By jotting down quick notes while others are sharing ideas, you ensure that valuable contributions don’t get lost in the moment.
7. Fast Access to Templates: Ctrl + Shift + T
Templates are brilliant features of Microsoft Whiteboard that allow users to start their work with a predefined layout. The shortcut Ctrl + Shift + T opens the template gallery, helping you select from various available templates to kickstart your session.
Usage Tip: Don’t be afraid to use templates for structured discussions. For example, if your team needs to brainstorm ideas for a marketing campaign, a relevant template can set the stage for focused discussion and organization.
8. Navigate Through Layers: Ctrl + Up/Down Arrow
Collaboration often results in layered content. To navigate between different items and layers on your whiteboard, use Ctrl + Up Arrow to bring a selected item to the front and Ctrl + Down Arrow to send it to the back. This is especially useful when you have overlapping elements that you need to rearrange or manage.
Usage Tip: Use this shortcut to maintain clarity in your workspace. For example, if a note overlaps with a diagram, quickly adjust their layers to ensure all elements of your board are visible and usable.
9. Toggle Eraser and Selection Tools: E
When it comes to cleaning up your canvas, the eraser tool is essential. By pressing E, you can switch to the eraser mode, allowing you to remove unwanted elements quickly.
Usage Tip: Use this shortcut during collaborative sessions when ideas are rapidly changing. It allows you to effortlessly clear out redundant thoughts while keeping the board looking clean and streamlined, thus maintaining a clear focus on the task at hand.
Conclusion
Mastering the above keyboard shortcuts can dramatically change how you use Microsoft Whiteboard, leading to a more productive and enjoyable experience. In a tool where creativity, collaboration, and communication intersect, efficiency becomes paramount. By utilizing these shortcuts, you streamline your workflow, allowing for a more dynamic and engaging environment for you and your collaborators.
Each shortcut serves a specific purpose, optimizing the different ways you can navigate and manipulate your ideas. Whether you’re zooming into intricate details or quickly jotting down thoughts, these shortcuts position you to maximize the potential of Microsoft Whiteboard.
As you integrate these shortcuts into your routine, you’ll find yourself spending less time fumbling through menus and more time engaging with your content and peers. So make it a goal to incorporate these techniques into your next session, and prepare to elevate your productivity and creativity to new heights in Microsoft Whiteboard. Happy brainstorming!
Program information
Program name:
Microsoft Whiteboard
(Productivity)
Microsoft Whiteboard aims to recreate the experience of writing ideas to a whiteboard. It allows users to express their ideas, collaborate on designs, and help people learn new concepts. Microsoft Whiteboard is available on Windows, Web as well as iPhone and iPad.
Web page:
microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-…
How easy to press shortcuts: 83%
More information >>
Updated: Updated program information.
(2 updates.)
10/5/2021 11:54:56 AM New program added.
10/5/2021 11:58:19 AM Updated program information.
Shortcut count: 14
Platform detected: Windows or Linux
Other languages:
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Become a power user and use shortcuts to save time!
The Whiteboard editor supports many keyboard shortcuts to help you save time.
Shortcut | Description |
L | Activate the Lines tool |
Ctrl+C, ⌘+C | Copy selected shapes |
Ctrl+X, ⌘+X, Shift+Delete | Cut selected shapes |
Ctrl+V, ⌘+V, Shift+Insert | Paste previously copied or cut shapes |
Ctrl+D, ⌘+D | Duplicate selected shapes |
Ctrl+A, ⌘+A | Select all shapes on the page |
Esc | Clear selections |
Esc | (When text box is being edited) Finish text entry |
Ctrl+Z, ⌘+Z | Undo |
Ctrl+Y, Ctrl+Shift+Z, ⌘+Shift+Z | Redo |
Delete, Backspace | Delete the selected shapes |
Home | Bring selected shapes to Front |
End | Bring selected shapes to Back |
Left, Right, Up, Down | Move selected items |
Ctrl+Left, Ctrl+Right, Ctrl+Up, Ctrl+Down | Move selected items less |
Left, Right, Up, Down | (When zoomed in) Move the page |
F4 | (When zoomed) Reset zoom |
Shift+PageUp | Switch to the previous page |
Shift+PageDown | Switch to the next page |