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Master Your Workflow: Essential Keyboard Shortcuts for the i3 Window Manager

21 November 2025bpd · ubuntu

Navigate Like a Pro with Keyboard Commands

The true power of the i3 window manager, as highlighted in the ‘Ubuntu System Administration Guide’, lies in its keyboard shortcuts. By ditching the mouse for common tasks, you can navigate your desktop with incredible speed. Here are some of the fundamental commands to get you started:

  • Open a Terminal: Win + Enter
  • Launch an Application: Win + d (this opens a search bar at the top of the screen)
  • Switch Between Windows: Win + j/k/l/; or Win + Arrow Keys
  • Move a Window: Win + Shift + j/k/l/; or Win + Shift + Arrow Keys
  • Change Layout (Horizontal/Vertical Split): Win + h (horizontal) or Win + v (vertical) before opening a new window.
  • Toggle Fullscreen: Win + f
  • Close a Window: Win + Shift + q
  • Switch Workspaces: Win + [Number] (e.g., Win + 1 for workspace 1)

Mastering these basics will dramatically improve your productivity on Ubuntu.


This post is based from content of the book Ubuntu System adminstration guide. And the book can be found here https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mattias-Hemmingsson/author/B0FF5CQX13