Create a JAWS startup hotkey

Create a JAWS startup hotkey

Problem

If JAWS stops for any reason whilst in use or you the computer is shared among sighted users who don't need JAWS, it may be necerssary to set up a hotkey for restarting JAWS independantly.

Resolution

Method 1: Using a mouse

  1. Minimize all apps to view the desktop.
  2. Right click the JAWS icon for the version being used.
  3. Then choose "Properties" in the context menu.
  4. Then click in the "Shortcut key" edit box.
  5. Type in a single letter, for example J. This will yeild the shortcut control+alt+J for starting JAWS.
  6. Then click "Apply" then "OK" when done.

Method 2: Using the keyboard

  1. Press Windows+D to go to the Desktop and then press letter J until you get to the JAWS program icon.
  2. Press ALT+ENTER on it to open properties.
  3. Then press TAB to reach the “shortcut key” edit box, then just type a letter J here.
  4. Press TAB to move to the “OK” button and press SPACEBAR on it.

Testing the hotkey

Whilst JAWS is running hold down control and alt keys and press letter J to start JAWS. If it is already running you will notice either the JAWS window or the JAWS context menu will be spoken. In either case this indicates the hotkey will work even if JAWS is not loaded

    • Related Articles

    • JAWS - Add a desktop hotkey to start JAWS

      Problem A customer may need a hotkey so they can start JAWS independently. This may be useful in cases where JAWS may be needed to shut down to allow operation by sighted colleagues/helpers. Applies to JAWS Fusion Resolution Use the steps below ...

    • JAWS - General keystroke hotkeys

      Problem A customer wishes to familiarise themselves the general hotkeys that work with most Windows applications including web browsers. Applies to JAWS Resolution Please find below the list og general JAWS hotkey shortcuts that work for most apps. ...

    • JAWS – Create desktop application icon for Volume Panel

      Information This document provides steps to allow screen reader users to create a desktop icon for the Windows Volume panel application to allow easy adjustment of levels. Steps Use the steps below to create a desktop shortcut to the Windows volume ...

    • JAWS - Set up auto startup (registry items)

      Problem An IT Technician in a large organisation may need to manually add registry entries to allow JAWS to startup automatically for an end user. Resolution Notation for JAWS versions Throughout this document, [version] is used. From JAWS 2018 ...

    • JAWS - Alternative JAWS start-up for problem installations

      Problem JAWS auto-start up settings once set do not appear to work, JAWS does not start after signing into the Windows desktop. Resolution Note This problem is rare but when the workaround is implemented it will cause JAWS to start very slightly ...