is there a "delete" shortcut?

Mercy. My "Documents" file is really loaded with old records and assorted mish-mash of things I either no longer use or want. (But there are also many files in there that I need to save.) The only way I know how to get rid of my not-wants is to right-click each file icon, click Delete, click again (to tell it I am SURE I want to delete) then it is finally gone. This is fine UNLESS someone like me has about 50 they want out of there. Is there a way to delete at least 10 at a time, or more? I'm working my mouse, and fingers to the bone!