Navigating with JAWS (Job Access With Speech) requires mastering various cursor types and mouse simulation commands. This guide covers essential JAWS keystrokes for users using the Desktop Keyboard Layout with standard keyboards.
By learning these shortcuts, JAWS users can efficiently switch between cursors, simulate mouse clicks, and control navigation across the screen.
Understanding JAWS Cursors
JAWS provides multiple cursors, each serving a unique function. Below are the keystrokes to control these cursors, along with useful hints.
1. PC Cursor – NUM PAD PLUS
The PC Cursor is the default cursor for navigating applications. If the Touch Cursor is active, press NUM PAD PLUS twice quickly to switch back.
2. JAWS Cursor – NUM PAD MINUS
The JAWS Cursor moves independently from the system focus, allowing navigation beyond standard text fields and buttons.
3. Invisible Cursor – NUM PAD MINUS (twice quickly)
Use the Invisible Cursor to read static text, such as error messages or content outside active windows.
4. Touch Cursor – SHIFT+NUM PAD PLUS
The Touch Cursor is designed for touchscreen devices, enabling interaction using touch gestures.
5. Route Touch Cursor to Focus Location – INSERT+NUM PAD PLUS
Moves the Touch Cursor to the object that currently has focus, improving interaction with elements.
6. Route PC Cursor to JAWS Cursor – INSERT+NUM PAD PLUS
Moves the PC Cursor to the location of the JAWS Cursor, but only if supported in that application section.
7. Route JAWS Cursor to PC Cursor – INSERT+NUM PAD MINUS
Moves the JAWS Cursor to the PC Cursor’s current location for seamless navigation.
8. Tether JAWS to PC – CTRL+INSERT+NUM PAD MINUS
This makes the JAWS Cursor follow the PC Cursor automatically. Press the command twice quickly to save this setting.
9. Restrict JAWS Cursor or Virtual PC Cursor – INSERT+R
Limits the movement of the JAWS Cursor or Invisible Cursor to specific areas:
- Real Window Restriction – Restricts to named windows, like dialog boxes.
- Current Window Restriction – Keeps navigation within the active window, useful in text fields.
- Frame Restriction – Limits movement within the current frame.
- Focus Window Restriction – Restricts movement to the window with focus.
- Application Window Restriction – Limits navigation to the current application.
- Unrestricted Mode – Allows movement anywhere on the screen.
In web dialogs, this also restricts Virtual Cursor navigation to just the dialog content.
Simulating Mouse Actions with JAWS (Desktop Layout)
JAWS allows full control over mouse actions using the keyboard.
10. Left Mouse Button Click – NUM PAD SLASH
Press once to single left-click. Press twice quickly to double-click.
11. Right Mouse Button Click – NUM PAD STAR
Press once for a right-click. Press twice quickly for a double right-click.
12. Left Mouse Button Lock – INSERT+NUM PAD SLASH
Holds the left mouse button down for dragging. Press again to release.
13. Right Mouse Button Lock – INSERT+NUM PAD STAR
Holds the right mouse button down, useful for dragging items or opening context menus.
14. Drag and Drop – CTRL+INSERT+NUM PAD SLASH
To move an item:
- Position the JAWS Cursor over the item and press
CTRL+INSERT+NUM PAD SLASH. - Navigate to the destination and press the command again to drop the item.
Navigating with the Mouse Using JAWS
JAWS provides full control over mouse movements using the keyboard.
15. Move Mouse Down – ALT+SHIFT+DOWN ARROW
Moves the mouse pointer downward.
16. Move Mouse Left – ALT+SHIFT+LEFT ARROW
Moves the mouse pointer left.
17. Move Mouse Right – ALT+SHIFT+RIGHT ARROW
Moves the mouse pointer right.
18. Move Mouse Up – ALT+SHIFT+UP ARROW
Moves the mouse pointer upward.
Advanced Cursor Information Commands
19. Say Active Cursor – ALT+DELETE
Announces the active cursor type and its position in pixels.
Tip: If JAWS announces row and column positions instead of pixels, switch to the JAWS Cursor (NUM PAD MINUS), then route it to the PC Cursor (INSERT+NUM PAD MINUS). Press ALT+DELETE again for pixel position.
20. Say Cursor Type – CTRL+INSERT+SHIFT+C
Announces the shape of the current mouse cursor.
Conclusion
By mastering these JAWS keystrokes for the Desktop Layout, users can efficiently navigate applications, control cursors, and simulate mouse actions without relying on a physical mouse.
Regular practice with these commands will enhance accessibility, improve workflow efficiency, and provide greater control over screen reading navigation.