Following are the two approaches to invoke SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) in various versions of SQL Server.

Regular Approach (4 Steps)

• Click on Start
• Go to All Programs
• Go to Microsoft SQL Server <<Version>> (like Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2)
• Click on SQL Server Management Studio

Shortcut Approach (3 Steps)

• Click on Start > Click on Run… (or alternatively press Windows + R)
• Type the following
  • sqlwb (for SSMS 2005)
  • ssms (for SSMS 2008/2008 R2/2012)
• Click on OK or Hit Enter

This simple 3 step process launches SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) for corresponding version of SQL Server).

If you know of any other interesting shortcuts, then share it by leaving a comment below.

Reference: http://dattatreysindol.blogspot.in/2009/09/shortcuts-to-invoke-sql-server-client.html

Take a look at the other Tips and Tricks in this Series on Tips, Tricks, Techniques, and Shortcuts to Improve Productivity, and Design and Coding Skills.