Windows 11: Easily Type Em & En Dashes with New Shortcuts

Windows 11 Gains Hidden Keyboard Shortcuts for Em and En Dashes

Microsoft has quietly rolled out new keyboard shortcuts for typing em dashes and en dashes within teh latest Windows 11 Insider builds, possibly streamlining workflows for writers and anyone frequently using these punctuation marks. The feature, currently available in the Dev and Beta channels, was discovered by tech enthusiast PhantomOfEarth and reported by The Register.

The addition addresses a common frustration for users who often struggle with the complex methods traditionally required to insert these dashes – typically relying on ALT codes or character maps. While microsoft has not officially announced the update, its arrival is expected to be welcomed by those who value precise typography.

Did you know? – Em dashes (-) are longer than en dashes (-) and are often used to indicate a break in thought or to set off parenthetical elements.

Accessing the Hidden shortcuts

The new shortcuts are currently found in Windows 11 Dev build 26200.5761 or higher, and the Windows 11 Beta build 26120.5770 or higher. Though, simply installing the latest Insider build isn’t enough. Users will need to utilize a third-party tool called ViVeTool to enable the functionality.

According to reports, ViVeTool is a utility known for unlocking hidden features within Windows. One analyst noted its consistent ability to reveal functionalities not yet publicly released by Microsoft.

Pro tip: – Before using ViVeTool, create a system restore point. This allows you to revert to a previous state if any issues arise during the feature enabling process.

Enabling the Feature with ViVeTool

Here’s a step-by-step guide to enable the em and en dash keyboard shortcuts:

• Download the ViVeTool utility from GitHub.
• Extract the contents of the downloaded zip file to a directory of your choice (e.g., C:ViVeTool).
• Open the Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
• Navigate to the ViVeTool directory by typing cd C:ViVeTool and pressing Enter (adjust the path if necessary).
• Execute the following command: vivetool /enable /id:58422150 and press Enter.
• Restart your computer.

New Keyboard Shortcuts

Onc enabled, the following shortcuts can be used:

• Windows key + dash key (-) for en dash
• Windows key + Shift + dash key (-) for em dash

These shortcuts offer a substantially more intuitive method for inserting these frequently enough-used punctuation marks, eliminating the need for complex workarounds. to all Windows 11 users. Though, the addition signals Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to refining the user experience and addressing the needs of its diverse user base.

Image credit: ktsdesign / depositphotos.com

Reader question: – Do you think Microsoft will eventually integrate these shortcuts natively into windows 11 without requiring ViVeTool? What other hidden features would you like to see unlocked?

Explanation of Changes & answers to Questions:

Why: Microsoft added these keyboard shortcuts to simplify the process of typing em and en dashes, which were previously cumbersome to insert. It addresses a user frustration and improves workflow for writers and those who frequently use these punctuation marks.
Who: The feature was discovered by tech enthusiast PhantomOfEarth and reported by The register. Microsoft quietly rolled it out to Windows 11 Insider builds (dev and Beta channels).
* What: The update introduces keyboard shortcuts: Windows key + dash (-)