Microsoft Word has long been the go-to word processing software for millions of users around the world. However, one area where it has fallen short in recent years is its keyboard shortcuts. While most desktop applications have settled on Ctrl+V for pasting and Ctrl+Shift+V for pasting as plain text (with all formatting removed), Microsoft Word has a different approach, requiring users to open the Paste Special menu to paste without formatting. This can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially for users who frequently paste content from one source to another.
Fortunately, Microsoft is now addressing this issue with an update in the works. In a recent blog post, the company acknowledged that the industry standard has diverged from Word’s initial implementation of these features. As a direct response to user feedback, Microsoft is updating Word’s keyboard shortcuts, including the long-awaited addition of a standard Ctrl+Shift+V shortcut for pasting as plain text.
Accessibility is a priority for Word, and Microsoft wants to make the cut, copy, and paste experience as seamless as possible. The new shortcut works exactly like the same shortcut in Google Docs, Microsoft Teams, Gmail, and many other apps. In addition, Microsoft is testing other changes to Word’s keyboard shortcuts, including shortcuts for Copy Format Painter, Paste Format Painter, and the copyright symbol, bringing them in line with most modern software.
The Paste Special menu is also getting a new shortcut, moving from Ctrl+Alt+V to Alt+H+V+S on Windows. On Mac, the Paste Special menu won’t be accessible at all with the keyboard. These changes will help streamline the pasting experience and make it easier for users to work efficiently within Word.
Not everyone likes their keyboard shortcuts to change, so Microsoft will allow users to revert the shortcuts to their original versions from Word’s settings. This means that users who prefer the old shortcuts can continue to use them, while those who prefer the new shortcuts can take advantage of them.
The new shortcuts are available in the Microsoft 365 Home and Business Standard Beta Channels, starting with version 16.0.15831.20174 for Windows, and version 16.67.1113.0 for Mac. This means that users who want to try out the new shortcuts can do so by signing up for the beta channel. However, it’s important to note that beta versions may contain bugs and other issues, so users should proceed with caution.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s decision to update Word’s keyboard shortcuts is a welcome change that will benefit millions of users around the world. By bringing Word’s shortcuts in line with industry standards, Microsoft is helping to make the cut, copy, and paste experience as seamless and efficient as possible. Whether you prefer the old shortcuts or the new ones, it’s great to see Microsoft taking user feedback into account and working to improve the user experience within Word.
