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The shortcuts provided through the links below are valuable alternatives to using the mouse - which many people overuse. Especially when your hands are already at the keyboard, using the mouse can mean unnecessary movement, over-exertion of the fingers and arm, extra strain on the shoulder and elbow, and wasted time. Many people don't realize that underlined letters in menus and dropdowns indicate that letter is a shortcut. You can type the underlined letter rather than using the mouse to highlight the choice. New computers come initially with the underlined letters de-activated, so you don't see the shortcut indicated. Please follow the directions below to unhide the underline letters on your menus if you don't see them! Unhide Underlined Letters Keyboard Shortcuts: PC computer shortcuts (PDF) PC computer shortcuts - comprehensive (PDF) Creating a shortcut on the PC Start Menu Macintosh shortcuts Costpoint shortcuts

Selecting words or data with the mouse can cause undue tension in the hand and fingers. You will find that keyboard commands are easier to use than the mouse.

There are times when using the mouse is the only option. However, knowing all options allows you to choose what is best at a given moment - and what fits your personal work style.

Almost every application has shortcuts available. Use the Help menu to search for keyboard shortcuts in most applications. In Microsoft Word use the help menu, select Index, and search for "shortcuts". You will find more detailed tools with great efficiency and hand-saving power - such as the use of Style Sheets for automatic formatting. Check it out!

If you would like to attend a class about keyboard shortcuts, contact Performance Based Ergonomics, http://www.pbergo.com/index.html, (510) 839-5716. Performance Based Ergonomics gives classes onsite for companies and groups who would like to learn better ways to perform office tasks, keyboard shortcuts, and retraining for pain-free typing.