Every Microsoft Paint Keyboard Shortcut for Windows 10 and 11
Microsoft Paint is one of the original Windows tools, since it was included in the first version of the operating system in 1985. Many people hold nostalgic memories for it—the program often served as a fun distraction from school or work, and its simple tools meant that anyone could pick it up and start drawing.
Though in 2017 it looked like the beloved image editing tool would be replaced by Paint 3D, classic Paint reigned supreme. After some years of neglect, Microsoft redesigned Paint for Windows 11. While Microsoft Paint pales in comparison to free third-party alternatives, it still provides an accessible canvas for all ages and abilities.
If you use Microsoft Paint on Windows 10 or Windows 11, you should make use of its keyboard shortcuts. These will help you navigate the program quickly, giving you the room to focus on creating your masterpiece. To help you out, we’ve rounded up all of Microsoft Paint’s keyboard shortcuts.
FREE DOWNLOAD:This cheat sheet is available as a downloadable PDF from our distribution partner, TradePub. You will have to complete a short form to access it for the first time only. Download theMicrosoft Paint Keyboard Shortcuts Cheat Sheet.
Microsoft Paint Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows 10 and 11
Select the entire canvas
Bold, when text is selected
Copy the selection to the clipboard
Open the Image Properties window
Show/hide grid lines
Italicize, when text is selected
Create a new file
Open an existing file
Show/hide ruler
Underline, when text is selected
Paste from the clipboard
Open the Resize and Skew window
Move the selection up
Down arrow
Move the selection down
Left arrow
Move the selection left
Right arrow
Move the selection right
Ctrl + Numpad plus (+)
Increase the width of the active tool
Ctrl + Numpad minus (-)
Decrease the width of the active tool
Ctrl + Page up
Ctrl + Page down
Shift + F10
Show the context menu
View in full screen
Save as new file
Close Paint
Are You Ready to Graduate From Microsoft Paint?
Microsoft Paint is fantastic for quick doodles and edits, but it’s not so useful when it comes to more advanced image editing. If you think it’s time to graduate from Microsoft Paint, don’t worry about shelling out for a Photoshop license—there are plenty of free Microsoft Paint alternatives.
Microsoft has retired MS Paint in favor of Paint 3D. Not impressed? We have found free Microsoft Paint alternatives for all your image viewing and editing needs.
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