Depending on your typing environment, inserting an em dash or an en dash can range from a straightforward task to a frustrating ordeal. However, recent updates in the Insider builds of Windows 11 are set to simplify this process significantly, thanks to the introduction of new keyboard shortcuts.
Unlocking New Shortcuts
Microsoft has discreetly integrated a couple of new keyboard shortcuts designed specifically for these essential punctuation marks. Currently, these shortcuts are tucked away in the Dev and Beta builds, specifically in Windows 11 Dev build 26200.5761 or higher and Windows 11 Beta build 26120.5770 or higher. Interestingly, this addition has not been highlighted in the official release notes, leaving many users unaware of this welcome enhancement that is likely to be embraced by writers, editors, and grammar enthusiasts alike.
The discovery of these hidden shortcuts was made by the user known as PhantomOfEarth, who shared the news via Twitter:
If you want to enable the new em/en dash keyboard shortcuts rolling out in recent Dev and Beta preview CUs, run vivetool /enable /id:58422150 (enables feature “EnAndEmDash”) https://t.co/bP5fY7ozgt— phantomofearth 🌳 (@phantomofearth) August 30, 2025
The Register also reported on this development, emphasizing that simply having the latest Windows Insider builds installed is not sufficient; users will need to utilize a tool called ViVeTool to unlock these features. This utility has garnered attention for its ability to reveal hidden functionalities within Windows.
Steps to Enable the Shortcuts
To activate the em dash and en dash keyboard shortcuts, follow these steps:
- Begin by downloading the ViVeTool utility from GitHub.
- Extract the contents of the zip file to a location, such as C:ViVeTool.
- Open the Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
- Type cd C:ViVeTool and press Enter (adjust the path if necessary).
- Type vivetool /enable /id:58422150 and press Enter.
- Restart Windows.
Once these steps are completed, users can take advantage of the new shortcuts, eliminating the need to memorize ALT codes:
- Windows key + dash key (-) for en dash.
- Windows key + Shift + dash key (-) for em dash.
As these features are currently in the Dev and Beta builds—and remain hidden—it may take some time before they become available by default for all users.
Image credit: ktsdesign / depositphotos.com
