The shortcut key for right click in Windows is Shift + F10. It opens the context menu for whatever is selected, such as a file in File Explorer, a cell in Excel or a word in a document. Use the arrow keys to choose an option and Enter to run it.
Many full size keyboards also have a Menu key, marked with a small list icon, between Alt Gr and the right Ctrl. It does the same job with one press. On a Mac, hold Control and click.
Quick facts
Right click
Shift + F10Menu key
MenuMouse Keys on or off
Alt + Shift + Num LockTouchpad
Two finger tapMac
Control + click
Shortcut key for right click: three methods
| Method | How |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | Shift + F10 |
| Menu key | Press the key with the list icon |
| Touchpad | Tap or click with two fingers, or press the lower right corner |
| Mouse Keys | Use the number pad to choose the right button, then click |
Shift + F10 works on the item that has focus, so select the file or click the cell first. In a text box it acts on the text cursor position.
Cursor shortcut key: move the pointer with Mouse Keys
- Press Alt + Shift + Num Lock (left Alt and left Shift) and confirm Yes to turn on Mouse Keys.
- Use the number pad: 8, 2, 4 and 6 move the pointer up, down, left and right; 7, 9, 1 and 3 move diagonally.
- Press the minus key on the number pad to select the right button, then 5 to click with it.
- Press the slash key on the number pad to go back to the left button.
Mouse Keys is useful when a mouse stops working. It needs a number pad, and Num Lock must be on. Typing without a mouse is also covered in on screen keyboard shortcut.
Right click on a laptop touchpad
Most touchpads give a right click when you tap with two fingers, or press the lower right corner of the pad. If neither works, open Settings, Bluetooth and devices, Touchpad, and check Taps; turn on Tap with two fingers to right click. Precision touchpads also let you pick whether the corner press is enabled.
Right click on a Mac
Hold Control and click, or click with two fingers on the trackpad. You can also set the right corner as a secondary click in System Settings, Trackpad. On a Magic Mouse, enable Secondary click under Mouse settings. On keyboards, Control + Return opens the context menu in many apps when an item is selected.
Frequently asked questions
What is the shortcut key for right click?
Where is the Menu key?
Between Alt Gr and the right Ctrl key on full size keyboards.
How do I right click on a laptop touchpad?
Tap with two fingers, or press the lower right corner.
How do I move the cursor with the keyboard?
Turn on Mouse Keys with Alt + Shift + Num Lock and use the number pad.
How do I right click on a Mac?
Hold Control and click, or click with two fingers.
Why does Shift + F10 not work?
Your function keys may be in media mode; press Fn with it.