Alternatively called Control+W and C-w, ^w, Ctrl+W is a keyboard shortcut often used to close a program, window, tab, or document.

How to use the Ctrl+W keyboard shortcut

To use this keyboard shortcut, press and hold either Ctrl key, and while continuing to hold, press W.

  • How to use the Ctrl+W keyboard shortcut.
  • Ctrl+W in an Internet browser.
  • Ctrl+W in Excel.
  • Ctrl+W in Microsoft PowerPoint.
  • Ctrl+W in Word and other word processors.
  • Related keyboard shortcuts and keys.
  • Related information.
  • Computer keyboard shortcuts.

Ctrl+W in an Internet browser

In all major Internet browsers (e.g., Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera), pressing Ctrl+W closes the current tab. If there aren’t multiple tabs open, pressing Ctrl+W closes the browser.

  • Firefox shortcuts
  • Google Chrome shortcuts
  • Internet Explorer shortcuts

Ctrl+W in Excel

In Microsoft Excel and other spreadsheet programs, pressing Ctrl+W closes the current workbook.

To restore or undo a closed tab use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+Tab

  • Full list of Excel shortcuts.

Ctrl+W in Microsoft PowerPoint

In Microsoft PowerPoint, Ctrl+W closes the current presentation.

If you’re editing the contents of a cell and press Ctrl+W, nothing will happen.

  • Full list of PowerPoint shortcuts.

Ctrl+W in Word and other word processors

In Microsoft Word and other word processors, pressing Ctrl+W closes the current document. If there are any unsaved changes in the document, you are prompted to save the document before closing it.

  • Full list of Microsoft Word shortcuts.

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

  • Alt+W
  • Ctrl+F4
  • Ctrl

Close, Ctrl, Keyboard shortcut, Keyboard terms, W

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