Telegram Desktop is famously fast, and its keyboard set matches: chat hopping with Alt+arrows, instant lock, and full text formatting chords. This complete list of Telegram Desktop keyboard shortcut keys explains navigation, formatting and window shortcuts in plain words.
Chat Navigation Shortcuts
| Shortcut Key | Function |
|---|---|
| Alt + Up / Down Arrow | Move to the previous / next chat in the list |
| Ctrl + Tab / Ctrl + Shift + Tab | Move to the next / previous chat |
| Ctrl + F | Search inside the current chat (from the chat list: global search) |
| Esc | Cancel search, close the current panel, or go back |
| Ctrl + 1 – 8 (with chat folders) | Jump between your chat folders/tabs |
| PageUp / PageDown | Scroll the message history |
| Up / Down Arrow (chat list focused) | Move the selection in the chat list |
| Enter | Open the selected chat / send the message (in the composer) |
| Ctrl + W | Close the current chat view |
| Ctrl + M | Minimize Telegram |
| Ctrl + Q | Quit Telegram Desktop |
| Ctrl + L | Lock Telegram (when a local passcode is set) |
| Ctrl + 0 | Open Saved Messages quickly (your self-chat) |
Message and Formatting Shortcuts
| Shortcut Key | Function |
|---|---|
| Enter | Send the message |
| Shift + Enter or Ctrl + Enter | Start a new line without sending |
| Up Arrow (empty composer) | Edit your last sent message |
| Ctrl + B | Make the selected text bold |
| Ctrl + I | Make the selected text italic |
| Ctrl + U | Underline the selected text |
| Ctrl + Shift + X | Strikethrough the selected text |
| Ctrl + K | Add a link to the selected text |
| Ctrl + Shift + P | Format as spoiler (hidden until tapped) |
| Ctrl + Shift + M | Format as monospace |
| Ctrl + Shift + N | Remove formatting from the selected text |
| Ctrl + A | Select all text in the composer |
| Ctrl + Z / Ctrl + Shift + Z | Undo / redo typing |
| :name | Type after a colon to search emoji/stickers by name |
Tips for Telegram Users
Alt + Up/Down is the fastest chat hopping in any messenger — hold Alt and walk the list. Set a local passcode and Ctrl + L locks the whole app instantly when you step away. Saved Messages (Ctrl + 0) is your free cloud notepad: send files and notes to yourself and find them on every device.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I switch chats quickly in Telegram Desktop?
Use Alt + Up/Down Arrow or Ctrl + Tab to walk the chat list without touching the mouse.
How do I lock Telegram with the keyboard?
If you set a local passcode (Settings → Privacy and Security), Ctrl + L locks the app instantly.
How do I make text bold in Telegram?
Select the text and press Ctrl + B (Ctrl + I for italic, Ctrl + U for underline, Ctrl + K to add a link).
How do I edit my last message in Telegram Desktop?
With the message box empty, press the Up Arrow — your last message opens for editing.
By Umar Farooq, Tech Know.
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