Avoiding Plus Signs for Mixed Input Actions
Avoiding Plus Signs for Mixed Input Actions records a distinct source-supported procedure-writing task while keeping adjacent procedure choices, accessibility concerns, and implementation mechanics outside the page.
Do not write a mixed keyboard-and-mouse action as though it were a keyboard shortcut with a plus sign; spell out the combined action instead.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
This boundary applies to mixed input actions such as holding a key while using a mouse; genuine keyboard shortcuts use their own shortcut-formatting conventions.
Further guidance
Content
Do not write a mixed keyboard-and-mouse action as though it were a keyboard shortcut with a plus sign; spell out the combined action instead.
Purpose
The guidance gives readers a consistent, scannable way to follow the procedure without adding unsupported requirements.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Describing alternative input methods — Microsoft Style Guide (opens in a new tab)Microsoft · Current Microsoft guidance for documenting keyboard, mouse, touch, pen, joystick, and multiple input methods in procedures.