HTTA is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

Function of the Alt+F3 keyboard shortcut

In the world of computing, keyboard shortcuts play a crucial role in enhancing productivity and efficiency. One such shortcut key is Alt+F3, which holds various functionalities depending on the context in which it is used. 

This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Alt+F3 shortcut key, exploring its significance across different operating systems and software programs.

Popular Programs That Use Alt + F3

Microsoft Word 2019A dialog box called “Create New Building Block”  allows users to define the properties of the AutoText entry they want to create.
KDE Plasma  DesktopServes as a shortcut to open the window operation menu for the currently active application or window.
Notepad ++Serves as a convenient tool for finding words or texts on Wikipedia.
OperaAllows users to quickly access and view detailed information about the currently displayed webpage or frame.
Python IDLE for WindowsHelps the users to access files to get relevant information quickly.

It is important to note that these descriptions are not exhaustive and there may be other programs where Alt + F3 performs different functions. Additionally, the functionalities associated with keyboard shortcuts can be customized by users in some software applications.

Practical Uses of Alt + F3

The keyboard shortcut Alt + F3  practical uses may vary depending on the specific software or system being used. In this response, we will explore some common practical uses of the Alt + F3 shortcut in different contexts.

General 

In this comprehensive response, we will explore the general practical uses of the Alt + F3 shortcut.

1. Opera

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut on Opera allows users to search for specific words or phrases within the current webpage they are viewing. When the shortcut is pressed, a search box will appear at the top right corner of the browser window, where users can enter their desired search term.

Once a search term is entered, Opera will highlight all instances of that term on the webpage. Users can then navigate through these instances using the up and down arrow keys. This shortcut is particularly useful when trying to locate specific information on a lengthy webpage or when conducting research.

2. Mapedit (Blood) in 2D mode: Global

In Mapedit (Blood) Alt + F3 serves as a micro scroll-down function in 2D mode: Global. It enables users to scroll down their maps in small increments, providing precise control over navigation and facilitating accurate modifications or exploration of different sections within a level.

3. Mapedit (Blood) in 3D mode: Floor/Ceiling

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in Mapedit (Blood) in 3D mode: floor/ceiling serves as a toggle to set the OFF state for the selected sector’s floor or ceiling. When this shortcut is used, it disables the rendering of the floor or ceiling texture in the 3D view.

It is important to note that while this shortcut affects the visual representation of the floor or ceiling texture in the 3D view, it does not modify any actual properties or attributes of the sector itself. It is purely a visual toggle for editing convenience.

Text Editing

The functionality associated with the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in text editors can vary depending on the specific editor being used. Here are the various applications that use this shortcut for text editing.

1. Microsoft Word 2019

When you press Alt + F3, the Create New Building Block dialog box will appear. This dialog box allows you to define and save a new Building Block based on the selected content in your document. 

You can specify a name for the Building Block, assign it to a gallery (such as Quick Parts or AutoText), add a description, and set other properties. It allows users to save and reuse frequently used content or formatting elements, saving time and effort in creating documents.

2. Sublime Text

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in Sublime Text is a powerful tool for simultaneously selecting and editing multiple occurrences of a word or phrase. It provides a convenient way to make changes efficiently, saving time and effort in the process.

3. Brackets

When the Alt + F3 shortcut is pressed, Brackets will search for the currently selected text or the word under the cursor and highlight all instances of it in the document. This can be particularly useful when working with large files or when trying to identify and modify multiple occurrences of a specific element or code snippet.

4. Notepad2

This shortcut is used to find and save text within the document. When this shortcut is pressed, it activates the ” find” function in Notepad2, allowing users to search for specific words or phrases within the text.

5. Notepad3 (v5.21)

In Notepad3 (v5.21), the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut is used as a predefined function for saving or finding text.

6. WriteMonkey

When the Alt + F3 shortcut is pressed, WriteMonkey will search for the word or phrase currently selected by the user or the word under the cursor. It will then select all occurrences of that word or phrase throughout the entire document.

This keyboard shortcut can be particularly useful when working with large documents or when needing to make global changes to specific words or phrases. By using Alt + F3, users can easily select and modify multiple instances of a word or phrase simultaneously, saving time and effort.

7. WordPerfect X8

In WordPerfect X8, pressing Alt + F3 shortcut provides users with a powerful tool for understanding and manipulating the formatting codes within their documents. By revealing the underlying codes, users can have greater control over the appearance and layout of their documents, as well as troubleshoot any formatting issues that may arise.

Imaging

Here are five programs that use the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut for imaging:

1. CorelDRAW 2020

Using Alt + F3  allows users to open the Lens Docker window. This shortcut eliminates the need for users to navigate through menus or search for specific options, saving time and improving workflow efficiency.

Also, when the Alt + F3 shortcut is pressed, it opens the Find and Replace dialog box in CorelDRAW 2020. This dialog box provides various options for searching and replacing text, giving users flexibility in their editing tasks.

2.  Autodesk 3ds Max 2021

Pressing Alt + F3  in Autodesk 3ds Max 2021 enables axis constraints in the snaps toggle feature. It restricts movement or rotation along a specific axis while using snapping options, providing greater control and precision during modeling tasks.

3. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2018

The shortcut activates the Lens tool. The Lens tool allows you to create and edit lens effects, such as drop shadows, glows, and bevels, in your CorelDRAW graphics. With the Lens tool, you can add depth and dimension to your designs, making them more visually

4.  LightWave 3D

Using Alt +F3 allows users to toggle the visibility of SubPatch cages. Showing or hiding these cages can assist in analyzing topology, understanding subdivision effects, and focusing on final results.

System Tools

Here are different programs that Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in system tools:

1.  KDE Plasma Desktop

When the Alt + F3 combination is pressed, it triggers a signal to the KDE Plasma Desktop, which then opens the Window Operations menu. This menu provides various options and functions related to managing and manipulating windows within the desktop environment.

2. Mintty 3.4.0

To use the Alt + F3 shortcut, simply press and hold the Alt key on your keyboard and then press the F3 key. This will activate the search function in Mintty, and you can start typing your search query, allowing users to quickly find specific text within their terminal session.

In addition, by using this keyboard shortcut, you can easily search for specific text within the scrollback buffer without having to manually scroll through all the content. This feature is particularly useful when working with long outputs or logs in the terminal.

Developer Tools

Here are the programs that use the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in the developer tools:

1. Notepad++

By using this keyboard shortcut, users can easily access information from Wikipedia while working on their text documents in Notepad++. This can be particularly useful when writing or editing content that requires referencing or fact-checking.

2. Python IDLE for Windows

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in Python IDLE for Windows is used to find a specific text or pattern within multiple files simultaneously. This feature is commonly referred to as “Find in Files”. It enhances productivity and aids in code analysis and comprehension.

3. IDA Pro 7.4

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in IDA Pro 7.4 is used to close the current window. When this shortcut is pressed, the active window in IDA Pro will be closed, allowing the user to quickly navigate and manage multiple windows within the software.

4. Sublime Text 4

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in Sublime Text 4 is used to find all occurrences of a word or phrase in the current document. This shortcut is a powerful tool for quickly locating specific text within a large document, and it can be especially useful when combined with other search commands.

5. Atom (Windows)

Alt + F3 is a powerful keyboard shortcut in Atom that allows you to select all the matching words in a file at once. It differs from other selection shortcuts like Cmd + D and Ctrl + D in that it selects words based on their boundaries, and it is specific to Atom on Windows. By using Alt + F3, you can save time and effort when working with long code snippets in Atom.

In addition, The Alt + F3  shortcut also finds and replaces all occurrences of a selected text. When you press Alt + F3 in Atom on Windows, the find and replace functionality is activated, allowing you to search for a specific text within the current document. The “select all” option is also available, which selects all occurrences of the searched text.

6. winIDEA

When the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut is pressed in winIDEA, it triggers the “Find” functionality within the software. This allows users to search for specific text within the code or other text-based files open in the IDE. The “Find” functionality typically opens a search dialog box where users can enter the text they want to search for.

7. Free Pascal IDE

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in the Free Pascal IDE is used to close the active window.

File Manager

Here are  the programs that use the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in file manager:

1. PeaZip

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut is a system search feature in PeaZip, a free and open-source file archiver and compression utility. When this keyboard combination is pressed, it triggers the system search functionality within PeaZip, allowing users to quickly search for specific files or folders within the application.

Media Player

Here is the program that uses the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in the media player:

KMPlayer

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut is used to reset the font size to the default size in KMPlayer.

Games

Here are the programs that use the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut for gaming: 

1. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

In Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, Alt key + F3 is used as a modifier key to Select 3.

2. Oxygen Not Included (PC)

In Oxygen Not Included (PC), the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut is a hotkey that can be used to trigger the Debug Collect Garbage action in Oxygen Not Included on PC. This action recycles unused objects and frees up memory, which can help improve the game’s performance and reduce the risk of crashes or freezes.

Productivity

Here are the programs that use the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut for productivity:

1. Nuendo 10

When you press Alt + F3, the MixConsole window will appear or disappear depending on its previous state. This shortcut provides a quick and convenient way to access or hide the MixConsole while working on your project in Nuendo 10.

2. Steinberg Cubase 10.5

When the Alt + F3 shortcut is pressed, it triggers the opening or closing of the MixConsole window. This window provides a comprehensive view of all the audio channels in the project, allowing users to make precise adjustments to each track’s volume, panning, effects, and other parameters.

3 . Macro Pulover

When using the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut, Macro Pulover opens a dialog box or window that displays a list of variables currently defined in the macro. This is particularly useful when working with complex macros that involve multiple variables, as it allows users to easily view and manage the variables being used.

4. Ninja Trader 8

When the Alt + F3 shortcut is pressed, it activates the arrow down feature to work.

5. NextGen EHR

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in NextGen EHR opens the Work Flow module. This module allows users to create, manage, and track clinical workflows within the electronic health record (EHR) system.

6. Dynamics 365 Business Central

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in Dynamics 365 Business Central performs several functions. Firstly, it is used to toggle filtering to the selected value. This allows users to quickly filter data based on a specific field or value, without having to navigate through menus or buttons.

Secondly, it applies a column filter on the selected field value in the list. This does the same as choosing Filter to this value from a column heading. It opens the filter pane, and sets the filter to the selected value, while the focus remains on the cell in the list.

Lastly, it clears the filter on a filtered column. This shortcut is specifically designed for situations where a column has already been filtered, and you want to remove that filter.

7. SAGE PE Batigest i7

When the Alt + F3 shortcut is used, it triggers a command that changes the display mode on SAGE PE Batigest i7. This allows you to switch from one display mode to another (with or without structure components)

8. MindManager 21

When this shortcut is pressed, the selected object will be positioned at the center of the MindManager workspace, allowing for better visibility and focus.

9. Evernote for Windows (legacy)

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in Evernote for Windows (legacy) is used to navigate to the left panel shortcuts. When this keyboard combination is pressed, it allows users to quickly access and switch between different shortcuts available in the left panel of the Evernote application.

10. TallyPrime

When you press the Alt + F3 keys together in TallyPrime, it opens the Select Company screen. This screen allows you to choose a different company from the list of available companies in the specified data path. 

11. FeatureCAM 2023

By using the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut, you can single-step simulation in FeatureCAM 2023 and analyze the toolpath and machining process in more detail. This can be a useful feature when you need to make adjustments to the toolpath or when you are new to using FeatureCAM 2023.

12. Notezilla

When you have a list of notes or tasks in Notezilla, the Alt + F3 shortcut allows you to quickly filter and narrow down the displayed items based on specific criteria. This can be particularly useful when you have a large number of notes or tasks and want to focus on a particular subset.

13. Tally ERP 9

When you press the Alt + F3 keys together in Tally ERP 9, it opens the Company Info menu. This menu allows you to perform various tasks related to creating, altering, and shutting a company.

14. Dynamics NAV (Windows client)

When using Dynamics NAV, users often work with large amounts of data and need to narrow down their search or analysis. The Alt + F3 shortcut provides a convenient way to filter data without having to navigate through menus or use the mouse.

15. Chief Architect X15

When the Alt + F3 shortcut is pressed, it gives users access to the Display Setting Tools for the Drawing Sheet. It offers a comprehensive set of customization options that allow users to fine-tune the appearance and layout of their architectural drawings according to their specific needs.

Scientific

Here are the programs that use the Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut in scientific scenarios:

1. Femap 2020.2

 In Femap 2020.2, Alt + F3 is used to access the “Picture > Replay” feature. This feature is a useful tool for reviewing and analyzing visualizations created within the software. It allows users to easily playback and study picture sequences or animations, providing a comprehensive understanding of their models or simulations 

2. PowerScribe 360

The Alt + F3 keyboard shortcut is used to create new AutoText from selected text. AutoText is a feature in PowerScribe 360 that allows users to save and reuse commonly used phrases or templates. By selecting a specific portion of text and using the Alt + F3 shortcut, users can quickly create an AutoText entry for future use.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Alt + F3 is a versatile keyboard shortcut that serves different purposes across various applications and operating systems.

Its functionality ranges from opening context menus and dialog boxes to triggering specific actions within software programs.

Understanding the usage of Alt+F3 can significantly enhance productivity and streamline workflow for users in different computing environments.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *