Table of Contents
Creating a shortcut key for a folder on Windows 10 can be a time-saving and convenient way to access your frequently used directories. With just a simple key combination, you can instantly open the folder without having to go through multiple clicks or searches. In this blog post, we will explore different methods to create shortcut keys for folders on Windows 10 and discuss the benefits they offer. Whether you are a casual user or a power user, this guide will help you optimize your workflow and enhance your productivity.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Creating Shortcut Keys for Folders on Windows 10
Windows 10 provides various ways to customize and personalize your user experience, but creating shortcut keys for folders is not a built-in feature. This can be a challenge for users who rely heavily on specific directories and want quick access to them. Luckily, there are alternative methods and third-party tools available that can help overcome this challenge and make the process of creating shortcut keys easy and efficient.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we dive into the methods of creating shortcut keys for folders, there are a few things you should prepare for. These will ensure a smooth and successful implementation of the shortcut keys:
1. Identify the folders: Determine which folders you want to create shortcut keys for. These can be frequently used directories, project folders, or any other folders that you access frequently.
2. Choose the key combinations: Decide on the key combination you want to assign to each folder shortcut. Make sure it is a combination that is easy to remember but also not conflicting with existing system shortcuts.
3. Select a method: Understand the different methods available for creating shortcut keys for folders on Windows 10. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, so choose the one that suits your needs and preferences.
Method 1: Using the “Sent To” Feature
The first method we will explore uses the "Sent To" feature in Windows 10. This feature allows you to conveniently send files or folders to different locations, including the desktop. By taking advantage of this feature, we can create shortcut keys for folders on the desktop. Here’s how to do it:
1. Start by navigating to the folder you want to create a shortcut key for.
2. Right-click on the folder and select the "Send to" option from the context menu.
3. In the "Send to" sub-menu, choose "Desktop (create shortcut)."
4. A new shortcut will be created on your desktop for the selected folder.
5. Now, you can assign a shortcut key to the created desktop shortcut. Right-click on the shortcut and select "Properties."
6. In the "Properties" window, go to the "Shortcut" tab and click on the "Shortcut key" field.
7. Press the desired key combination that you want to assign as the shortcut key. For example, you can use "Ctrl + Alt + [Key]" or "Ctrl + Shift + [Key]."
8. After pressing the key combination, it will be automatically filled in the "Shortcut key" field. Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.
Pros:
1. Simple and built-in feature of Windows 10.
2. Can be done without the need for any third-party tools.
3. Quick and easy to set up once you understand the steps.
Cons:
1. Limited to creating shortcut keys on the desktop only.
2. Key combination options may be limited due to conflicts with existing system shortcuts.
Method 2: Via AutoHotkey
AutoHotkey is a powerful scripting language that allows you to automate tasks and create hotkeys for various actions on Windows. By utilizing AutoHotkey, you can create custom shortcut keys for folders anywhere on your system, not just limited to the desktop. Here’s how to do it:
1. Start by installing AutoHotkey from the official website (https://www.autohotkey.com/).
2. Once installed, create a new script file by right-clicking on the desktop or any desired location, selecting "New," and then "AutoHotkey Script."
3. Name the script file with a suitable name and open it in a text editor of your choice.
4. In the script file, add the following line:
#+[Key]:: Run "path\to\your\folder"Replace [Key] with the desired key combination and "path\to\your\folder" with the actual path of the folder you want to create a shortcut key for.
5. Save the script file and double-click on it to run the AutoHotkey script.
Pros:
1. Offers flexibility in creating shortcut keys for any folder on the system.
2. Can use a wide range of key combinations, even those that are not available in the "Sent To" feature.
3. Provides advanced scripting capabilities for automation and customization.
Cons:
1. Requires the installation of a third-party tool (AutoHotkey).
2. Requires basic knowledge of the AutoHotkey scripting language.
3. May have a learning curve for beginners.