Erase Smarter: The CTRL + Backspace Trick to Supercharge Your Typing

‘LPT: When you’re constantly hitting backspace to delete the mistake you made letter by letter, you can hold CTRL and hit backspace to delete word by word instead’

This tip works because it leverages a simple keyboard shortcut to streamline editing. First, CTRL + Backspace deletes whole words at once, speeding up corrections compared to erasing single characters. Second, it reduces repetitive strain, as you press fewer keys to fix errors.

Third, it’s universal—most text editors and operating systems support this shortcut, making it a reliable tool across platforms. By using this trick, you’re not just fixing mistakes—you’re making your typing workflow smoother and more efficient, especially during long writing sessions.

This shortcut has extra perks:

• Boosts productivity: Faster edits mean you stay in the flow of writing.
• Reduces frustration: Correcting big chunks of text feels less tedious.
• Works everywhere: From Word to web browsers, it’s a consistent time-saver.

Have you used CTRL + Backspace to speed up editing? How did it change your typing experience? What would you do if you found more shortcuts to make your workflow smoother?

This Redditor’s trick is like finding a turbo button for your keyboard. Deleting word by word with CTRL + Backspace is a massive time-saver, especially when you’re churning through reports or essays. The struggle is real: typos and edits can break your writing rhythm, and pecking at backspace feels like wading through mud. This shortcut keeps you in the zone.

Keyboard shortcuts are a cornerstone of productivity. A 2023 study by TechSmith found that 68% of knowledge workers use shortcuts to boost efficiency, yet many overlook simple ones like CTRL + Backspace (TechSmith). This tip is a low-effort, high-impact fix for a common pain point.

Productivity expert Dr. Melissa Gratias explains, “Mastering keyboard shortcuts like CTRL + Backspace reduces cognitive load and physical strain, letting you focus on the task, not the tool” (Psychology Today). Her insight backs the Redditor’s advice: this shortcut isn’t just about speed—it’s about staying engaged and reducing wrist fatigue.

To make it work, practice using CTRL + Backspace in your next email or document. Pair it with other shortcuts like CTRL + Arrow Keys to jump words or CTRL + Shift + Arrow Keys to highlight them. If you’re on a Mac, try Option + Backspace. Feeling stuck? Explore shortcut guides online. What’s your favorite typing hack? Share it below to boost everyone’s workflow!

Take a look at the comments from fellow users:

The Reddit crowd jumped in with a mix of mind-blown reactions and cheeky quips, lighting up the thread like a keyboard shortcut spree.

These takes make you wonder: is CTRL + Backspace the ultimate editing hack, or are there other shortcuts stealing the show? What’s your go-to move?

This Redditor’s tip is a small tweak with big payoffs. CTRL + Backspace turns editing from a slog into a slick, efficient process, saving time and sanity. It’s not just about deleting words—it’s about owning your workflow. Have you tried CTRL + Backspace or other shortcuts? How did they change your typing game? Drop your story below—what would you do to make your workflow even smoother with more shortcuts?