Windows Shortcut Keys

If you want a quick way to launch Windows applications using the keyboard, use Shortcut keys. 

We'll use the Windows Calculator application shortcut as our demo, but this technique works with Windows shortcuts that are stored on your Desktop or in your All Programs menu.  To assign the Shortcut key, simply right-click on the Shortcut icon and select Properties.  You'll see the properties dialog box and the "Shortcut" tab as shown below.

In the "Shortcut key" field, simply type a letter or number.  Windows will automatically add the "Ctrl + Alt".

Now, from anywhere, simply press the selected keys to launch your program!

Notes: be careful not to assign a character that is already in use; if so your shortcut will be ignored by Windows.  This technique won't work for shortcuts stored in your Quick Launch bar, or any location other than the Desktop or the All Programs menu.  This applies to Windows Shortcuts (which can be set up to launch applications and files), and does not apply directly to the files or executable programs directly.