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.

Below are links to related keyboard shortcuts and individual key pages.

  • Alt+K
  • Ctrl

Ctrl, Hyperlink, K, Keyboard shortcut, Keyboard terms

  • Computer keyboard shortcuts.
  • Top 10 keyboard shortcuts everyone should know.
  • Keyboard help and support.