Navigating the Computer without a Mouse

By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
Updated June 27, 2025
Keyboard commands or shortcuts can improve efficiency and independence for all computer users, especially those with visual impairments. The following are reasons why students with visual impairments should learn keyboard commands:

​Why Learn Keyboard Commands?

  • Accessibility: Keyboard shortcuts provide an essential navigation alternative for users who may find mouse use challenging or inefficient.
  • Efficiency: Once mastered, keyboard commands allow faster execution of tasks than using a mouse—ideal for completing assignments or timed tasks.
  • Consistency: Keyboard commands often remain consistent across applications and platforms, making it easier to transfer skills.
  • Independence: Students can complete tasks and interact with digital content independently, without relying on visual prompts or a mouse.
  • Comfort & Familiarity: Though some students may prefer using a mouse initially, keyboarding can become intuitive and faster with practice.
  • Universal Design: Promotes accessible practices for all learners, not just those with visual impairments.

Navigating Without a Mouse

Accessing the Start Menu (Windows 10 & 11)
  • Press the Windows key (or Ctrl + Esc) to open the Start Menu.
  • Use arrow keys to move through options or press the first letter of the desired program.
  • Press Enter to select.
  • Press Esc to close the menu.
Note: Shortcut hints (underlined letters) for navigation are usually enabled by default on Windows 10/11. To adjust this:
Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard, and toggle “Underline access keys when available.”

Navigating Programs from the Start Menu

  • Arrow keys move through apps; typing a letter jumps to the first match.
  • Pressing the letter multiple times cycles through items starting with that letter.
  • Use Enter to launch a selected app.
  • Use the right arrow to expand folders.
  • Press Esc to back out of submenus.

Desktop Navigation

  • Windows + D: Minimize all windows and toggle focus to the desktop.
  • Tab / Shift + Tab: Cycle between elements (e.g., taskbar, system tray, open windows).
  • Arrow Keys: Move between desktop icons.
  • Type First Letter: Jumps to the first icon starting with that letter; press repeatedly to cycle through similar names.
  • Enter: Opens selected item.
  • Spacebar: Selects highlighted item.
  • Ctrl + Spacebar: Deselects a selected item.

Renaming Items Using the Keyboard

  1. Highlight the item using arrow keys.
  2. Press the Context Menu Key or Shift + F10.
  3. Use arrow keys to select Rename and press Enter.
  4. Type the new name and press Enter again to confirm.
Tip: Renaming icons with unique starting letters can make navigation even quicker via keyboard shortcuts.

​Helpful Shortcuts Summary

  • Open Start Menu: Windows Key or Ctrl + Esc
  • Minimize all / Show desktop: Windows + D
  • Move focus between areas: Tab / Shift + Tab
  • Rename selected item: Context Menu or Shift + F10
  • Select item: Spacebar
  • Deselect item: Ctrl + Spacebar
  • Open selected item: Enter
  • Exit menus: Esc

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