1. Launch and Close
NVDA is a standalone application. Use these shortcuts to quickly toggle the tool as you test or browse.
- To Launch: Press Ctrl + Alt + N.
- To Close: Press NVDA + Q. A dialogue will appear to confirm you want to exit.
🔓 Free & Open Source
Standardized screen reading for Windows.
NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) is the world's most popular free screen reader. It is lightweight, powerful, and follows web standards closely. Mastering these six essential commands provides a comprehensive foundation for navigating the internet non-visually on Windows.
2. Muting (Stop Speech)
If NVDA is reading and you want it to stop immediately without turning it off:
- To Silence: Tap the Ctrl key once. This instantly stops the current speech buffer.
3. Screen Curtain
For privacy in public or to ensure you are testing without visual bias, NVDA can black out the screen while remaining fully active.
- To Toggle: This feature is found under NVDA Settings > Vision. Select "Make screen black" to enable.
- Note: Users frequently assign a shortcut to this via the Input Gestures menu for quicker access.
4. Heading Navigation
Scan through page structure by jumping from header to header.
- Next Header H
- Previous Header Shift + H
5. Link Navigation
Move quickly through the interactive destinations on a page.
- Next Link K
- Previous Link Shift + K
6. Form Fields
Jump between inputs, buttons, and other interactive form controls.
- Next Form Field F
- Previous Form Field Shift + F
- Force Focus Mode NVDA + Space
SimpleAccess Insight: The "NVDA" Key
The NVDA Modifier Key is essential for almost all commands. By default, this is the Insert key (found above the arrow keys or on the numpad) or the Caps Lock key.
Testing Tip: Use the Elements List (NVDA + F7) on this page. It's an excellent way to verify that your heading hierarchy and link descriptions are clear and meaningful for non-visual users.