Ctrl+Esc only brings up the Start menu which is probably the least common thing power users do. Instead the Windows key is used for shortcuts such as Win+UpArr

Ctrl+Esc only brings up the Start menu which is probably the least common thing power users do. Instead the Windows key is used for shortcuts such as Win+UpArrow (maximize window), and Win+E (Windows Explorer), Win+L (lock desktop), Win+Tab (cycle through windows), etc. Modern keyboards also have the "context menu" key which does the same thing as right-click on the mouse. A very convenient key to minimize lifting the hand from the keyboard and grab the mouse only for a right-click menu.