Welcome to Basic Computing’s Learning Hub. What will you learn today?WelcomeWelcome to Basic Computing’s Learning Hub.What will you learn today?
WINDOWS SHORTCUT MASTERY · LESSON 21
Switch between open apps: Alt + Tab
FREE LESSON
3 minutesWindows 11Beginner
Section 1 of 33 minutes
Learn at your own pace
UNDERSTAND THE IDEA
When this helps
What am I going to do?
Read the idea, learn the key combination and answer a question about when it would help.
What will I learn?
Know when and how to switch between open apps.
You can return to another open app without hunting for its taskbar icon. Your work stays open as you move between apps.
LEARN THE SHORTCUT
The keys and what happens
Where it works Windows 11
Alt+Tab
Key names are shown separately, not as a keyboard layout. A + between key boxes means combine them. A box named Plus means the actual Plus key. Follow the steps below for alternatives.
1How to use it
Hold Alt and press Tab once. Keep holding Alt to see the window choices. Press and release Tab again until the window you want is highlighted, then release Alt to switch to it.
2What to watch for
A quick Alt + Tab usually switches to the last window you used. Windows can also include recent Microsoft Edge tabs, depending on its Multitasking settings. Read the highlighted choice before releasing Alt. Nothing is saved or closed by switching.
You can learn this shortcut without pressing it here. The real keys act on your computer or the app you are using.
CHOOSE THE USEFUL ACTION
When would you use it?
You have a message open behind a document and only need to check it briefly. Which use is suitable?
Bring the already-open message window to the front.
Progress is saved in this browser on this device.
Prefer a more personal, one-to-one lesson? Basic Computing can help. Explore our services.
