Most users tend to have more than one program running at the same time (multitasking). For instance, they may be working in Photoshop and browsing the Internet. Instead of minimizing or clicking the Dock or Taskbar icon, use the shortcut key combination Alt+Tab on a Windows-based PC or Command+Tab on a Mac.

When switching between open program windows, it moves left-to-right by default. If you press Alt+Shift+Tab, it moves in the opposite direction. If you press Alt+Tab, you can continue to hold down Alt to leave the open programs window up and then switch between Tab and Shift+Tab while holding down Alt.

When working in a window with multiple tabs (e.g., an Internet browser) you can press Ctrl+Tab to switch between open tabs going left-to-right. If you press Ctrl+Shift+Tab, you can switch tabs going right-to-left.

  • See our Alt, Tab, and Command key definitions for further information and related links.
  • How to open a new tab in an Internet browser.
  • How to split the screen in Windows.
  • View two windows side-by-side using Smart Window.
  • How to resize a window.
  • Computer keyboard shortcuts