Mouse/Keyboard Alternatives

Some users have difficulty using a keyboard, others may find it hard to use a mouse.

In Windows, there are always several ways to do any one thing; you can experiment with alternatives until you find something that works for you:

Keyboard:

For example, if you are trying to cut, copy or paste selected text, photos or graphics you can use:

• The Edit menu in the menu bar of most applications, including your web browser, using the mouse to drop down the menu and click on your selection.
• The "keyboard shortcuts" listed next to most menu features such as Ctrl-C for Copy and Ctrl-V for Paste, using the Ctrl (control) key at the bottom left or right of the keyboard, at the same time as the C, V or other indicated key.

• The "alt-key shortcuts" indicated by underlined letters in the drop down menus. For example, see how the E is underlined in the Edit menu? Click the Alt (alternative) key located at the right and left of the spacebar at the bottom of your keyboard, at the same time as the "e" key.  The Edit menu should then drop down and you can then use the underlined key (on it's own) of the function you want to use, such as "p" for Paste.

Mouse:

To cut, copy and paste using the mouse, you click and drag the mouse to select your desired text, or click once on a graphic or picture to select it.  Then click the right-hand mouse button and a drop down menu will allow you to continue with the mouse to select the function you want.

Rule of Thumb - as a general rule, if you hands are already on the keyboard, try using the keyboard to do what you want, if you hand is on the mouse, try sticking with the mouse functions to do what you want.  Avoiding continuous switches back and forth keeps you on track , speeds you up, and decreases mistakes.