Most people curse the Windows key and its awkward placement on their keyboards, but it can actually be quite useful if you understand how to use it.

Here are a few simple and useful keyboard shortcuts that utilize the Windows key:

• Windows key + D: Show desktop
• Windows key + F: Find files or folders
• Windows key + L: Lock desktop
• Windows key + M: Minimize all applications
• Windows key + Shift + M: Unminimize all applications
• Windows key + R: Run menu

Now stop trying to pry it off of your keyboard – put it to good use instead!