Alternatively written as Control+K, ^k, and C-k, Ctrl+K is a keyboard shortcut that varies depending on the program used. For example, in certain programs, Ctrl+K is used to insert a hyperlink, and in some browsers, Ctrl+K focuses on the search bar.
How to use the Ctrl+K keyboard shortcut
To use this keyboard shortcut, press and hold either Ctrl key, and while continuing to hold, press K.
On Apple computers, the most similar keyboard shortcut is Command+K.
- How to use the Ctrl+K keyboard shortcut.
- Ctrl+K in an Internet browser.
- Ctrl+K in Excel and other spreadsheet programs.
- Ctrl+K in Outlook.
- Ctrl+K in Microsoft PowerPoint.
- Ctrl+K in Word and other word processors.
- Related keyboard shortcuts and keys.
- Related information.
- Computer keyboard shortcuts.
Ctrl+K in an Internet browser
With Internet browsers, Ctrl+K has a specific function in each browser.
- Chrome - Focus the omnibox.
- Edge - Focus on the search bar.
- Firefox - Focus on the search bar.
- Internet Explorer - Duplicate the current tab.
Ctrl+K in Excel and other spreadsheet programs
In Microsoft Excel, Ctrl+K inserts a hyperlink in the currently-active cell or location.
- Full list of Excel shortcuts.
- Google Sheets shortcuts.
Ctrl+K in Outlook
In Microsoft Outlook, pressing Ctrl+K completes the name or e-mail being typed in the e-mail field if it’s found in the address book.
- Full list of Outlook shortcuts.
Ctrl+K in Microsoft PowerPoint
In Microsoft PowerPoint, Ctrl+K inserts a hyperlink into the current slide or object.
- Full list of PowerPoint shortcuts.
Ctrl+K in Word and other word processors
In Microsoft Word and other word processors, pressing Ctrl+K inserts a hyperlink at the text cursor’s current location.
- Full list of Microsoft Word shortcuts.
Related keyboard shortcuts and keys
Below are links to related keyboard shortcuts and individual key pages.
- Alt+K
- Ctrl
Ctrl, Hyperlink, K, Keyboard shortcut, Keyboard terms
Related information
- Computer keyboard shortcuts.
- Top 10 keyboard shortcuts everyone should know.
- Keyboard help and support.