If you’re using a Chromebook, you might have noticed a key with a rectangle and two vertical lines.
This is known as the Show Windows key. But what is the Show Windows key on Chromebook, and how do you use it?
This manual explains everything you need to know.
The Show Windows button is placed in the top row of your Chromebook’s keyboard.
You’ll find it between the full-screen key and the brightness down key.
While it may look simple, it can do a lot. Some people call it the Overview key, Window Switcher, or even the Launcher key.
Let’s explore what it does, how to use it, and what to do if it stops working.
What Does the Show Windows Key Do?
So, what is the Show Windows key on Chromebook actually used for?
When you press it, your Chromebook shows a preview of all the open apps and windows.
It brings up an organized view on your screen, showing thumbnails of everything that is currently active. This makes it easy to jump between tasks.
Press the button once to open this view. Press it again to return to your current screen.
From this overview, you can do the following:
| Task | What You Can Do |
| View all apps | See every app and window that is open |
| Switch between them | Click a thumbnail to bring that app forward |
| Close apps | Tap the “X” at the corner of any window to close it |
| Use split-screen | Drag windows to the side to arrange them |
| Use virtual desks | Create and manage multiple desktops |
This key is like the Mission Control feature on Apple devices or the Task View on Windows computers. It’s a quick and simple way to handle your open windows.
Other Ways to Open the Overview Screen
If the key doesn’t work or if you prefer gestures, there are other ways to reach the overview screen.
Using the Touchpad
Here’s how to open the overview screen using your touchpad:
- Place three fingers on the touchpad
- Swipe upwards in a single motion
- To close the view, swipe down with the same three fingers
This gives the same result as pressing the Show Windows key.
On Touchscreen Chromebooks
If your Chromebook has a touchscreen:
- Swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen
- Hold your finger in the middle of the display
The screen will then show your open apps and windows.
These options are helpful if the key isn’t working or if you just prefer touch gestures.
Using the Key to Take Screenshots
Another common use of this key is taking screenshots. If you’re wondering what the Show Windows key on Chromebook is useful for, this is one of its main functions.
Here are the shortcuts:
| Shortcut | What It Does |
| Ctrl + Show Windows | Takes a full-screen screenshot |
| Ctrl + Shift + Show Windows | Opens the screen capture menu |
When you use the screen capture tool, you can:
- Take a screenshot of a selected area
- Capture just one open window
- Record your screen if needed
This makes it a very useful button for work or school tasks.
Troubleshooting: What If the Key Doesn’t Work?
Sometimes, pressing the Show Windows button might not do anything. This happens if your Chromebook is using the top-row keys as function keys (like F1 to F12).
There are two ways to fix this:
Change the Keyboard Settings
Here’s how to make the key work again:
- Open the Settings menu
- Select Device
- Click on Keyboard
- Turn off the setting: “Treat top-row keys as function keys”
Once this is off, the Show Windows key will work as expected.
Use the Search Key as a Shortcut Modifier
If you want to keep using function keys, you can still use the Show Windows key by holding the Search key at the same time.
Here’s how it works:
| Shortcut | Result |
| Search + Show Windows | Opens the overview screen |
| Search + Ctrl + Show Windows | Takes a full screenshot |
| Search + Ctrl + Shift + Show Windows | Opens the screen capture tool |
This way, you don’t have to give up function keys to use Chromebook shortcuts.
Bonus Tip for Keyboard Shortcuts
Want to see all the shortcut keys for your Chromebook?
- Press Ctrl + Alt + / to open the keyboard shortcut viewer
- It will show you every available shortcut on your device
This is helpful if you want to learn faster ways to use your Chromebook.
Final Fixes If Nothing Works
Still asking what is the Show Windows key on Chromebook is good for if yours doesn’t function? Try these final steps:
- Restart your Chromebook
- Check for system updates by going to Settings > About ChromeOS
- If needed, contact the device maker
- As a last option, do a Powerwash (factory reset) to fix any system errors
These steps can often restore the key’s function.
Make the Most of the Show Windows Key
Now that you know what the Show Windows key is on Chromebook, you can start using it to save time and work better.
Whether you’re switching between apps, creating new desktops, or taking screenshots, this key makes things quicker.
It’s a small button, but a very powerful one once you know how to use it. Get comfortable using it, and your Chromebook experience will feel much smoother.
The more you practice with it, the more confident you’ll become in handling your device like a pro.
