Shortcuts and Shortcut Keys

Shortcut keys and shortcuts are alternate methods for completing an action. A shortcut key consists of a letter, symbol, or function key, often pressed in combination with the CTRL, SHIFT, or ALT key. Shortcuts can be tools, buttons, or shortcut menus.

Principles

nUse 8-point uppercase for key names, but make the plus sign (+) 10 point (if there is one) so that it is readable online.

nFollow the Microsoft Publications Style Guide for formatting key combinations. Do not put a space between the plus sign and the key names. For example, CTRL+K. Do put a space between commas in a key sequence in which the user presses keys in sequence. For example, ALT, T, P.

nUse 10-point MS Sans Serif (the style that you are using for the list) for describing the shortcuts.

nShortcuts that are tools or buttons should have the icon to the left of the name of the tool or button and should not be formatted as a jump (Figure 4.x).

nDo not format a list or table of shortcuts as jump hot spots. Instead, repeat them as jump hot spots in the “See Also” section.

Strategies

nShortcut keys/shortcuts can be presented in a variety of ways:

nIn a paragraph within text

nAs a list in text

nAs a table

nIn a pop-up window