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Shortcuts on the keyboard are a great way to save time. It’s much easier to tap two or three keys at once than to dig through options. But shortcuts require information and muscle memory, so you have to put in the time to learn them before you can use them in the long run. Most Mac users probably know that Command-C means copy and Command-V means paste, but there are a lot of other tools that make life much easier for Mac users. I put together this short collection to show this point:
Some keys on Apple keyboards have special symbols and tasks, like adjusting the brightness of the screen, the brightness of the keyboard, and more. If your keyboard doesn’t have these features, you might be able to make some of them work by making your own keyboard shortcuts. Combine these keys with the Fn key to use them as F1, F2, F3, or other normal function keys.
Why Mac Keyboard Shortcuts Matter?
On a Mac, keyboard shortcuts are important for a number of reasons, including that they help make the user more efficient, productive, and happy overall. Here’s why Mac users should use keyboard shortcuts:
- Reduced Reliance on the Mouse: Using the mouse less can reduce hand pain and the chance of getting an injury from doing the same thing over and over again. This is especially important for people who use their computers for long amounts of time.
- Consistency: On macOS, many keyboard tools work the same way in different programs and features. By learning a set of computer shortcuts, you can move quickly between apps.
- Accessibility: Shortcuts on the keyboard give people who have trouble moving around or don’t want to use a mouse another way to connect with a computer. This usability feature is important for making sure that everyone can use computers.
- Professionalism: Using computer shortcuts can make you look more skilled and professional, especially when giving a presentation or working with other people.
Best Mac Keyboard Shortcuts
You may do jobs more quickly with the help of keyboard shortcuts since they eliminate the need to navigate through menus or utilize the mouse. This is especially helpful when performing actions that are repetitive or when you have a limited amount of time to finish chores.
General Shortcuts:
Shortcut | Description |
---|---|
Cmd + C | Copy selected item(s) |
Cmd + X | Cut selected item(s) |
Cmd + V | Paste copied/cut item(s) |
Cmd + Z | Undo |
Cmd + Shift + Z | Redo |
Cmd + A | Select all items |
Cmd + Tab | Switch between open applications |
Cmd + Space | Open Spotlight search |
Cmd + W | Close active window/tab |
Cmd + Q | Quit active application |
Cmd + S | Save current document |
Text Editing Shortcuts
Shortcut | Description |
---|---|
Cmd + B | Bold text |
Cmd + I | Italicize text |
Cmd + U | Underline text |
Cmd + C | Copy selected text |
Cmd + X | Cut selected text |
Cmd + V | Paste copied/cut text |
Cmd + Z | Undo |
Cmd + Shift + Z | Redo |
Tips for Mastering Mac Shortcuts
Mastering Mac shortcuts can make you much more productive and help you work more efficiently. Here are some tips that will help you get good at Mac shortcuts:
- Start slowly. Don’t try to learn all the quick cuts at once or you’ll be too overwhelmed. Start with a few important ones and add to your information over time.
- Use “cheat sheets.” Keep a written or digital list of common shortcuts close by until you know them by heart.
- Learn Shortcuts for Each Application: Focus on shortcuts that are useful for the programs you use most often. Many programs, like browsers, text editors, and design tools, have their own set of shortcuts.
- Practice often: Use shortcuts as part of your daily practice to help you remember things and build muscle memory.
FAQs
A: On a Mac, keyboard shortcuts are sets of keys that let you do different things quickly and easily without using a mouse or trackpad. They make it easy to move around the macOS interface, control apps, perform system tasks, and run commands.
A: To use keyboard shortcuts on a Mac, you just need to press the set of keys at the same time. For example, press Command + C to copy text. The exact keys and combinations depend on the job or action you want to do.
A: Many computer shortcuts are the same across all Mac programs, so they are consistent and easy to use. But some programs may have their own special keyboard shortcuts or different ways to use them. It’s always a good idea to look at the application’s documentation or Help area to find out what shortcuts it supports.