In most desktop applications, you can use keyboard shortcuts to copy selected text and then paste it somewhere else. You can use ________ to copy selected text, and ________ to paste it in a document.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: CTRL+C, CTRL+V

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Copy and paste are among the most frequently used commands on a computer. They allow users to reuse text, images and other content quickly without having to retype or recreate them. Most operating systems and applications support standard keyboard shortcuts for these actions. This question tests whether you know the common key combinations used to copy selected text and then paste it into a document on a typical PC keyboard.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The context is standard desktop or laptop usage with a typical keyboard.
  • We focus on copying selected text and pasting it in a document.
  • The system uses common shortcut conventions such as those found in Windows, Linux and many macOS applications.
  • Modifier keys mentioned include CTRL, SHIFT and ALT.


Concept / Approach:
Across many software packages, the key combination CTRL+C is used to copy the currently selected item into the clipboard, and CTRL+V is used to paste the contents of the clipboard at the cursor position. These shortcuts are part of a broader standard where CTRL+X cuts and CTRL+Z undoes an action. CTRL+P, by contrast, usually opens the Print dialogue, and SHIFT or ALT combinations shown in the distractors are not standard for copy and paste. Therefore, the correct pair of shortcuts is CTRL+C for copy and CTRL+V for paste.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Recall that the widely used copy shortcut for selected text or objects is CTRL+C. Step 2: Remember that after copying, the data is kept in an area called the clipboard until it is pasted or replaced. Step 3: Identify CTRL+V as the standard keyboard shortcut for pasting the clipboard contents at the insertion point. Step 4: Note that CTRL+P is conventionally used for printing, not pasting, so any option pairing CTRL+C with CTRL+P is incorrect. Step 5: Observe that SHIFT and ALT combinations given in other options are not standard copy or paste shortcuts. Therefore the correct pair is CTRL+C, CTRL+V.


Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, you can open any word processor or text editor, type some text, highlight it and press CTRL+C, then move the cursor to another place and press CTRL+V. The text appears in the new position, confirming that copying and pasting have taken place. Pressing CTRL+P opens the print window instead. Software manuals, help files and keyboard shortcut lists for common programs all list CTRL+C as copy and CTRL+V as paste. This consistent behaviour across many applications supports the answer.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • CTRL+C, CTRL+P: The first part (CTRL+C) correctly copies, but CTRL+P normally triggers printing, not pasting, so the pair is incorrect.
  • SHIFT+C, ALT+V: These combinations are not standard shortcuts for copy and paste and generally do nothing or perform different functions depending on the program.
  • SHIFT+C, ALT+P: Again, non standard and unrelated to typical clipboard operations.
  • CTRL+V, CTRL+C: Reverses the correct order; you must copy before you can paste, and significant applications do not treat CTRL+V as a copy command.


Common Pitfalls:
Some users confuse CTRL+P with paste because they associate P with place or paste. However, in standard shortcut sets, P is reserved for print. Another mistake is to press CTRL+X and then think they have copied, when CTRL+X actually cuts (removes) the text. A good memory aid is C for copy, V for insert (because V shape points down like inserting something), and P for print. Knowing this pattern helps prevent wrong key combinations in both exams and daily computer work.


Final Answer:
You can use CTRL+C to copy selected text and CTRL+V to paste it into a document.

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