01
Install AutoHotkey
Download the **AutoHotkey v2** installer from the official website. Complete the installation using the normal setup options.
Install **AutoHotkey v2**, create a script, and verify a custom shortcut works.
Requirements
- Windows 11 25H2 x64
- AutoHotkey v2 installer from https://www.autohotkey.com/
- Permission to install desktop software
Instructions
02
Create a script
Right-click the desktop and create a new **AutoHotkey Script** where the shell option is available. Otherwise create a text file with the proper script extension.
Shortcuts.ahk
03
Edit the script
Open the script in a text editor. Add a version directive and a shortcut that opens Notepad.
#Requires AutoHotkey v2.0
^!n::Run('notepad.exe')
04
Run the script
Save the file and double-click it. Confirm that the **AutoHotkey** script icon appears in the notification area.
05
Test the shortcut
Press the assigned shortcut. Verify that **Notepad** opens.
Ctrl + Alt + N
06
Manage script startup
Decide whether the shortcut should run manually or at sign-in. Use the Windows Startup folder only if automatic launching is desired.
tipUse unique shortcuts to avoid conflicts with existing application hotkeys.
Common issues
The script reports a syntax error.
Confirm the file uses AutoHotkey v2 syntax and that the installed interpreter is version 2.
The shortcut does nothing.
Check whether the script is running and whether another application has captured the shortcut.
Frequently asked
Can AutoHotkey v1 scripts run in v2?
Many require changes because v2 uses different syntax.
Can scripts start with Windows?
Yes. Place a script shortcut in the user Startup folder.
How to undo this
Exit the running script, delete the script file and any startup shortcut, and uninstall **AutoHotkey** through Installed apps.
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