In Windows, the duplicate screen shortcut key is Win + P. A small panel opens with four choices; pick Duplicate and the same picture shows on the laptop and the projector, monitor or TV. Press Win + P again and use the arrow keys to switch modes.
For a wireless TV or display that supports casting, press Win + K to find and connect to it. On a Mac, Command + F1 turns mirroring on and off when a second display is attached.
Quick facts
Projection options
Win + PDuplicate
Win + P, DuplicateExtend
Win + P, ExtendWireless display
Win + KDisplay settings
Win + I, System, DisplayMac mirroring
Command + F1
Duplicate screen shortcut key: the four modes
| Mode | What you see |
|---|---|
| PC screen only | Laptop only; the projector goes blank |
| Duplicate | The same picture on both |
| Extend | Two separate desktops side by side |
| Second screen only | Projector only; the laptop goes dark |
Duplicate is best for presenting to a room while watching your own screen. Extend is better for working with two monitors at a desk. Windows remembers the last mode for each display, so the next time you connect the same projector it usually returns to Duplicate on its own.
Connect a projector in a classroom or meeting
- Connect the cable (HDMI or VGA) and switch the projector to that input.
- Press Win + P.
- Use the arrow keys to select Duplicate and press Enter.
- If the picture is cut off, open Display settings and match the resolution to the projector.
Some laptops also have a function key with a small two screen icon that does the same as Win + P; on most it is one of F1 to F12, pressed with Fn. See function keys F1 to F12.
Display keyboard shortcut for wireless screens
Win + K lists wireless displays and smart TVs nearby that accept casting. Choose one, and once connected the same Win + P options apply. Both devices must be on the same network, and some office networks block it. For sharing a screen in a video meeting, use the share button in the meeting app; each app has its own key, shown when you hover over the share button.
Mirror a Mac screen
With a display connected, Command + F1 toggles mirroring on many Macs; on keyboards where F1 controls brightness, press Fn + Command + F1. You can also open System Settings, Displays, and choose Mirror from the Use as menu. For wireless mirroring to a compatible TV, use Screen Mirroring in Control Centre.
When the second screen shows nothing
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| No signal on projector | Check the input source and cable, then press Win + P again |
| Picture stretched or blurry | Set the resolution to the projector's native size in Display settings |
| Win + K finds nothing | The TV is off, on another network, or does not support casting |
| Laptop screen went black | Second screen only was chosen; press Win + P and choose Duplicate |
Frequently asked questions
What is the duplicate screen shortcut key?
How do I extend my screen to a second monitor?
How do I connect to a wireless display?
Why is my projector showing no signal?
Check the input and cable, then choose Duplicate again.
What is the screen mirroring shortcut on a Mac?
How do I share my screen in a meeting?
Use the share button in the meeting app; its tooltip shows the key.