What key combination is used to copy selected text in most applications?

The key combination used to copy selected text in most applications is Ctrl + C. This shortcut allows users to duplicate the highlighted text or object and place it on the clipboard, making it ready to be pasted elsewhere using the paste command, typically executed with Ctrl + V. This functionality is integral to productivity as it enables quick manipulation of text without the need for repetitive typing or reformatting.

Other key combinations mentioned serve different purposes: Ctrl + X is used for cutting, which removes the selected text from its original location, while Ctrl + A selects all text in the document. Ctrl + Z is the undo command, which reverses the last action taken. Understanding these differences is crucial for efficient keyboarding and formatting tasks.