Streamline Your Database: Essential Microsoft Access Shortcuts

Microsoft Access shortcuts

When it comes to managing data efficiently, Microsoft Access is one of the most powerful tools in the Microsoft 365 suite. From creating databases to building queries and reports, Access helps you organize and analyze information effectively.

But if you’re relying solely on your mouse, you might be slowing yourself down. Keyboard shortcuts can drastically improve your speed and precision — especially when navigating large databases or designing forms.


Essential Microsoft Access Keyboard Shortcuts

General Shortcuts

  • Ctrl + N → Create a new database

  • Ctrl + O → Open an existing database

  • Ctrl + S → Save the current object

  • F12 → Save As

  • Ctrl + P → Print

Navigation

  • F6 → Switch between design panes or sections

  • Ctrl + Tab → Switch between open objects

  • Ctrl + F6 → Move between windows in Access

  • Ctrl + W / Ctrl + F4 → Close the current database object

  • Alt + F4 → Exit Access

Data Entry

  • Ctrl + ; → Insert the current date

  • Ctrl + : → Insert the current time

  • Ctrl + ‘ → Copy data from the field above

  • Ctrl + + → Add a new record

  • Ctrl + - → Delete the current record

Form & Report Design

  • Ctrl + Enter → Switch between Design and Form view

  • Ctrl + G → Open the Immediate window (for macros/VBA)

  • Ctrl + Arrow Keys → Move controls in small increments

  • Shift + Arrow Keys → Resize selected controls

  • Ctrl + S → Save layout changes

Filtering & Searching

  • Ctrl + F → Open Find dialog box

  • Ctrl + H → Open Replace dialog box

  • Shift + F2 → Zoom box for field entry

  • Ctrl + Shift + L → Toggle filters on/off

Why Use Shortcuts in Access?

Microsoft Access is built for speed and accuracy — and shortcuts help you make the most of it. With just a few keystrokes, you can:

✅ Quickly switch between forms, tables, and reports
✅ Enter and edit data faster
✅ Navigate large databases efficiently
✅ Customize forms and layouts precisely


Final Thoughts

Whether you’re designing a database or entering daily data, these Microsoft Access shortcuts help streamline your workflow and reduce the time spent on repetitive clicks.

🚀 At Computer & Communications Innovations (CCI), we’re passionate about helping businesses save time and work smarter with the Microsoft tools they already use. Start applying these Access shortcuts today and take control of your data like a pro!

📞 Call: 615-928-2438
🌐 Visit: www.cciustn.com

Next
Next

Microsoft 365 Icons Get a Fresh New Look — And No, You Didn’t Break Anything!