Mac Shortcuts Search

Mac Shortcuts

Shortcuts for Mac
Mac Shortcuts
Mac Shortcuts
Common Shortcuts Sleep & Shut Down Finder & System Accessibility Safari Spotlight Mail Photos Disk Utility Startup Tricks & Secrets
Mac Keyboard Shortcuts

Common shortcuts

  • Command-X: cut the selected item and copy it to the Clipboard.
  • Command-C: copy the selected item to the Clipboard. This also works for files in the Finder.
  • Command-V: paste the contents of the Clipboard into the current document or app. This also works for files in the Finder.
  • Command-Z: undo the previous command. You can then press Shift-Command-Z to Redo, reversing the undo command.
  • Command-A: select all items.
  • Command-F: find items in a document or open a Find window.
  • Command-G: find again – find the next occurrence of the item found previously.
  • Command-H: hide the windows of the front app.
  • Command-M: minimize the front window to the Dock.
  • Command-O: open the selected item or open a dialog to select a file to open.
  • Command-P: print the current document.
  • Command-S: save the current document.
  • Command-T: open a new tab.
  • Command-W: close the front window.
  • Option-Command-Esc: force quit an app.
  • Command-Space bar: show or hide the Spotlight search field.
  • Control-Command-Space bar: show the Character Viewer, from which you can choose emoji and other symbols.
  • Control-Command-F: use the app in full screen, if supported by the app.
  • Space bar: use Quick Look to preview the selected item.
  • Command-Tab: switch to the next most recently used app among your open apps.
  • Command-Grave accent (`): switch between the windows of the app you’re using.
  • Shift-Command-5: in macOS Mojave or later, take a screenshot or make a screen recording.
  • Shift-Command-N: create a new folder in the Finder.
  • Command-Comma (,): open preferences for the front app.
Mac Sleep, Log Out, and Shut Down Shortcuts

Mac Sleep, Log Out, and Shut Down Shortcuts

  • Power button: press to turn on your Mac or wake it from sleep mode. Press and hold for 1.5 seconds to put your Mac into sleep mode. Continue holding to force your Mac to turn off.
  • Option-Command-Power button: or Option-Command-Media Eject: put your Mac into sleep mode.
  • Control-Shift-Power button: or Control-Shift-Media Eject: put your displays into sleep mode.
  • Control-Power button: or Control-Media Eject: display a dialogue asking whether you want to restart, sleep or shut down.
  • Control-Command-Power button: force your Mac to restart, without prompting to save any open and unsaved documents.
  • Control-Command-Media Eject: quit all apps, then restart your Mac. If any open documents have unsaved changes, you will be asked whether you want to save them.
  • Control-Option-Command-Power button: or Control-Option-Command-Media Eject: quit all apps, then shut down your Mac. If any open documents have unsaved changes, you will be asked whether you want to save them.
  • Control-Command-Q: lock your screen immediately.
  • Shift-Command-Q: log out of your macOS user account. You will be asked to confirm. To log out immediately without confirming, press Option-Shift-Command-Q.
Finder and System Shortcuts

Finder and System Shortcuts

  • Command-D: duplicate the selected files.
  • Command-E: eject the selected disk or volume.
  • Command-F: start a Spotlight search in the Finder window.
  • Command-I: show the Get Info window for a selected file.
  • Command-R: (1) when an alias is selected in the Finder – show the original file for the selected alias. (2) In some apps, such as Calendar or Safari, refresh or reload the page. (3) In Software Update, check for software updates again.
  • Shift-Command-C: open the Computer window.
  • Shift-Command-D: open the desktop folder.
  • Shift-Command-F: open the Recents window, showing all of the files you have viewed or changed recently.
  • Shift-Command-G: open a Go to Folder window.
  • Shift-Command-H: open the Home folder of the current macOS user account.
  • Shift-Command-I: open iCloud Drive.
  • Shift-Command-K: open the Network window.
  • Option-Command-L: open the Downloads folder.
  • Shift-Command-N: create a new folder.
  • Shift-Command-O: open the Documents folder.
  • Shift-Command-P: show or hide the Preview pane in Finder windows.
  • Shift-Command-R: open the AirDrop window.
  • Shift-Command-T: show or hide the tab bar in Finder windows.
  • Control-Shift-Command-T: add selected Finder item to the Dock (OS X Mavericks or later).
  • Shift-Command-U: open the Utilities folder.
  • Option-Command-D: show or hide the Dock.
  • Control-Command-T: add the selected item to the sidebar (OS X Mavericks or later).
  • Option-Command-P: hide or show the path bar in Finder windows.
  • Option-Command-S: hide or show the Sidebar in Finder windows.
  • Command-Slash (/): hide or show the status bar in Finder windows.
  • Command-J: show View Options.
  • Command-K: open the Connect to Server window.
  • Control-Command-A: make an alias of the selected item.
  • Command-N: open a new Finder window.
  • Option-Command-N: create a new Smart Folder.
  • Command-T: show or hide the tab bar when a single tab is open in the current Finder window.
  • Option-Command-T: show or hide the toolbar when a single tab is open in the current Finder window.
  • Option-Command-V: move the files in the Clipboard from their original location to the current location.
  • Command-Y: use Quick Look to preview the selected files.
  • Option-Command-Y: view a Quick Look slideshow of the selected files.
  • Command-1: view the items in the Finder window as icons.
  • Command-2: view the items in a Finder window as a list.
  • Command-3: view the items in a Finder window in columns.
  • Command-4: view the items in a Finder window in a gallery.
  • Command-Left Bracket ([): go to the previous folder.
  • Command-Right Bracket (]): go to the next folder.
  • Command-Up Arrow: open the folder that contains the current folder.
  • Command-Control-Up Arrow: open the folder that contains the current folder in a new window.
  • Command-Down Arrow: open the selected item.
  • Right Arrow: open the selected folder. This only works when in list view.
  • Left Arrow: close the selected folder. This only works when in list view.
  • Command-Delete: move the selected item to the Bin.
  • Shift-Command-Delete: empty the Bin.
  • Option-Shift-Command-Delete: empty the Bin without confirmation dialogue.
  • Command-Brightness Down: turn video mirroring on or off when your Mac is connected to more than one display.
  • Option-Brightness Up: open Displays preferences. This works with either Brightness key.
  • Control-Brightness Up or Control-Brightness Down: change the brightness of your external display, if supported by your display.
  • Option-Shift-Brightness Up or Option-Shift-Brightness Down: adjust the display brightness in smaller steps. Add the Control key to this shortcut to make the adjustment on your external display, if supported by your display.
  • Option-Mission Control: open Mission Control preferences.
  • Command-Mission Control: show the desktop.
  • Control-Down Arrow: show all windows of the front app.
  • Option-Volume Up: open Sound preferences. This works with any of the volume keys.
  • Option-Shift-Volume Up or Option-Shift-Volume Down: adjust the sound volume in smaller steps.
  • Option-Keyboard Brightness Up: open Keyboard preferences. This works with either Keyboard Brightness key.
  • Option-Shift-Keyboard Brightness Up or Option-Shift-Keyboard Brightness Down: adjust the keyboard brightness in smaller steps.
  • Option key while double-clicking: open the item in a separate window, then close the original window.
  • Command key while double-clicking: open a folder in a separate tab or window.
  • Command key while dragging to another volume: move the dragged item to the other volume, instead of copying it.
  • Option key while dragging: copy the dragged item. The pointer changes while you drag the item.
  • Option-Command while dragging: make an alias of the dragged item. The pointer changes while you drag the item.
  • Option-click a disclosure triangle: open all folders within the selected folder. This only works when in list view.
  • Command-click a window title: see the folders that contain the current folder.
Document Shortcuts

Document Shortcuts

  • Command-B: boldface the selected text, or turn boldfacing on or off.
  • Command-I: italicise the selected text, or turn italics on or off.
  • Command-K: add a web link.
  • Command-U: underline the selected text or turn underlining on or off.
  • Command-T: show or hide the Fonts window.
  • Command-D: select the Desktop folder from within an Open or Save dialogue.
  • Control-Command-D: show or hide the definition of the selected word.
  • Shift-Command-Colon (:): display the Spelling and Grammar window.
  • Command-Semicolon (;): find misspelt words in the document.
  • Option-Delete: delete the word to the left of the insertion point.
  • Control-H: delete the character to the left of the insertion point. Or use Delete.
  • Control-D: delete the character to the right of the insertion point. Or use Fn-Delete.
  • Fn-Delete: forward delete on keyboards that don’t have a Forward Delete key. Or use Control-D.
  • Control-K: delete the text between the insertion point and the end of the line or paragraph.
  • Fn-Up Arrow: Page Up – scroll up one page.
  • Fn-Down Arrow: Page Down – scroll down one page.
  • Fn-Left Arrow: Home – scroll to the beginning of a document.
  • Fn-Right Arrow: End – scroll to the end of a document.
  • Command-Up Arrow: move the insertion point to the beginning of the document.
  • Command-Down Arrow: move the insertion point to the end of the document.
  • Command-Left Arrow: move the insertion point to the beginning of the current line.
  • Command-Right Arrow: move the insertion point to the end of the current line.
  • Option-Left Arrow: move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous word.
  • Option-Right Arrow: move the insertion point to the end of the next word.
  • Shift-Command-Up Arrow: select the text between the insertion point and the beginning of the document.
  • Shift-Command-Down Arrow: select the text between the insertion point and the end of the document.
  • Shift-Command-Left Arrow: select the text between the insertion point and the beginning of the current line.
  • Shift-Command-Right Arrow: select the text between the insertion point and the end of the current line.
  • Shift-Up Arrow: extend text selection to the nearest character at the same horizontal location on the line above.
  • Shift-Down Arrow: extend text selection to the nearest character at the same horizontal location on the line below.
  • Shift-Left Arrow: extend text selection one character to the left.
  • Shift-Right Arrow: extend text selection one character to the right.
  • Option-Shift-Up Arrow: extend text selection to the beginning of the current paragraph, then to the beginning of the following paragraph if pressed again.
  • Option-Shift-Down Arrow: extend text selection to the end of the current paragraph, then to the end of the following paragraph if pressed again.
  • Option-Shift-Left Arrow: extend text selection to the beginning of the current word, then to the beginning of the following word if pressed again.
  • Option-Shift-Right Arrow: extend text selection to the end of the current word, then to the end of the following word if pressed again.
  • Control-A: move to the beginning of the line or paragraph.
  • Control-E: move to the end of a line or paragraph.
  • Control-F: move one character forwards.
  • Control-B: move one character backwards.
  • Control-L: centre the cursor or selection in the visible area.
  • Control-P: move up one line.
  • Control-N: move down one line.
  • Control-O: insert a new line after the insertion point.
  • Control-T: swap the character behind the insertion point with the character in front of the insertion point.
  • Command-Left Curly Bracket ({): left align.
  • Command-Right Curly Bracket (}): right align.
  • Shift-Command-Vertical Bar (|): centre align.
  • Option-Command-F: go to the search field.
  • Option-Command-T: show or hide a toolbar in the app.
  • Option-Command-C: Copy Style – copy the formatting settings of the selected item to the Clipboard.
  • Option-Command-V: Paste Style – apply the copied style to the selected item.
  • Option-Shift-Command-V: Paste and Match Style – apply the style of the surrounding content to the item pasted within that content.
  • Option-Command-I: show or hide the inspector window.
  • Shift-Command-P: page setup – display a window for selecting document settings.
  • Shift-Command-S: display the Save As dialogue or duplicate the current document.
  • Shift-Command-Minus sign (-): decrease the size of the selected item.
  • Shift-Command-Plus sign (+): increase the size of the selected item. Command-Equals sign (=) performs the same function.
  • Shift-Command-Question mark (?): open the Help menu.
Accessibility Shortcuts

Accessibility Shortcuts

  • Control-Option-Command-8: invert colours.
  • Control-Option-Command-Comma (,) and Control-Option-Command-Full stop (.): reduce contrast and increase contrast.
  • Control-F2 or Fn-Control-F2: move focus to the menu bar. You can then use the arrow keys to navigate the menu, press Return to open a selected menu or choose a selected menu item, or enter the menu item’s name to jump to that item in the selected menu.
  • Control-F3 or Fn-Control-F3: move focus to the Dock.
  • Control-F4 or Fn-Control-F4: move focus to the active window or next window.
  • Control-F5 or Fn-Control-F5: move focus to the window toolbar.
  • Control-F6 or Fn-Control-F6: move focus to the floating window.
  • Control-Shift-F6: move focus to the previous panel.
  • Control-F7 or Fn-Control-F7: change the way Tab moves focus – between navigation of all controls on the screen, or only text boxes and lists.
  • Control-F8 or Fn-Control-F8: move focus to the status menu in the menu bar.
  • Command-Grave accent (`): activate the next open window in the front app.
  • Shift-Command-Grave accent (`): activate the previous open window in the front app.
  • Option-Command-Grave accent (`): move the focus to the window drawer.
  • Tab and Shift-Tab: move to the next control, move to the previous control.
  • Control-Tab: move to the next control when a text field is selected.
  • Control-Shift-Tab: move to the previous grouping of controls.
  • Arrow keys: move to the adjacent item in a list, tab group or menu, or move sliders and adjusters (Up Arrow to increase values, Down Arrow to decrease values).
  • Control-Arrow keys: move to a control adjacent to the text field.
  • Option-Command-F5 or triple-press Touch ID: show the Accessibility Shortcuts panel.
Safari Shortcuts

Safari Shortcuts

  • Command-T: open a new tab.
  • Command-Shift-T: reopen the last closed tab.
  • Command-W: close the current tab.
  • Command-Option-W: close all tabs.
  • Command-L: highlight the address bar.
  • Command-R: reload the current page.
  • Command-Shift-R: reload the page without using cache.
  • Command-F: open the find bar.
  • Command-Option-F: open the find bar and focus the search field.
  • Command-N: open a new Safari window.
Spotlight Shortcuts

Spotlight Shortcuts

  • Command-Space: open Spotlight.
  • Command-Option-Space: open Spotlight in the Finder window.
  • Esc: close Spotlight.
  • Arrow keys: navigate the search results.
  • Command-Return: open the selected item.
Mail Shortcuts

Mail Shortcuts

  • Command-N: create a new message.
  • Command-Shift-N: create a new message with the current message selected.
  • Command-R: reply to the selected message.
  • Command-Shift-R: reply all to the selected message.
  • Command-Shift-F: forward the selected message.
  • Command-Delete: delete the selected message.
  • Command-Shift-J: mark a message as junk.
  • Command-Option-F: search for the message.
Photos Shortcuts

Photos Shortcuts

  • Command-N: create a new album.
  • Command-Delete: delete the selected photo.
  • Command-Shift-N: create a new folder for albums.
  • Command-I: show information about a selected photo.
  • Command-Option-1: switch to the photo library view.
  • Command-Option-2: switch to the albums view.
  • Spacebar: quickly preview the selected photo.
Disk Utility Shortcuts

Disk Utility Shortcuts

  • Command-N: open a new Disk Utility window.
  • Command-R: repair the selected volume.
  • Command-D: duplicate the selected disk image.
  • Command-E: eject the selected disk or volume.
Preview Shortcuts

Preview Shortcuts

  • Command-P: print the document.
  • Command-Plus (+): zoom in.
  • Command-Minus (-): zoom out.
  • Command-Option-1: switch to the first view mode.
  • Command-Option-2: switch to the second view mode.
Startup Shortcuts

Startup Shortcuts

  • Command-R: restart the Mac.
  • Command-Option-R: start macOS Recovery over the internet.
  • Command-Shift-Option-Delete: start up from the recovery partition.
Mac Shortcuts & Secrets
Tricks & Secrets

How to take screenshots on a Mac?

Taking screenshots on a Mac is simple and quick. Here are the common ways:

  • Command + Shift + 3: Capture the entire screen. This will automatically save the screenshot as a file on your desktop.
  • Command + Shift + 4: Capture a selected portion of the screen. After pressing the combination, drag to select the area you want to capture.
  • Command + Shift + 4, then Spacebar: Capture a specific window.
  • Command + Shift + 5: Open the screenshot toolbar to capture or record the screen.

Did you know? You can change where screenshots are saved by using the Screenshot toolbar (Command + Shift + 5).

How to force restart my Mac?

If your Mac freezes, you can force restart it with these steps:

  • Control + Command + Power: Force restart your Mac.
  • Command + Option + Esc: Open “Force Quit” to close any unresponsive applications.

Tip: Holding the power button for 10 seconds will force a complete shutdown.

How to access hidden files and folders on Mac?

To view hidden files in Finder, use these shortcuts:

  • Command + Shift + Period (.): Toggle the visibility of hidden files in Finder.
  • Go to Folder: Use Command + Shift + G to navigate directly to a hidden folder.

Warning: Be cautious when editing hidden files as they are system files.

How to switch between open apps?

Switch between open apps with these shortcuts:

  • Command + Tab: Open the app switcher to cycle through apps.
  • Command + ~: Switch between open windows of the same app.
  • Command + H: Hide the current app.

Quick Tip: Use Command + Tab and hold it to quickly navigate apps.

How do I take a screenshot of a specific window?

If you want to capture only one window on your screen, here’s how:

  • Command + Shift + 4: After pressing this, tap the spacebar. The cursor will change to a camera. Click on the window you want to capture.

Tip: This is great for capturing a specific window without the surrounding desktop elements.

How to find files quickly on Mac?

Searching for files on your Mac is simple with Spotlight:

  • Command + Space: Open Spotlight to search for apps, files, and web results.
  • Command + Option + Space: Open Spotlight in Finder to search for files specifically.

Tip: You can search for anything on your Mac with Spotlight, including email, documents, or even web results!

How to manage multiple desktops on Mac?

Use the following shortcuts to manage desktops and workspaces:

  • Control + Up Arrow: Open Mission Control to see all your desktops.
  • Control + Left/Right Arrow: Switch between multiple desktops or full-screen apps.

Tip: You can have multiple desktops to organize your workspaces and apps.

How to force quit an app on Mac?

If an app is frozen and unresponsive, you can force quit it:

  • Command + Option + Esc: Open the “Force Quit” window and select the app to close it.

Tip: You can also force quit by right-clicking on the app in the dock while holding the Option key.

How to quickly lock your Mac?

Locking your Mac to secure it quickly:

  • Command + Control + Q: Lock your Mac screen immediately.

Tip: Great for when you need to step away from your Mac and don’t want others to access it.

How to open the Preferences menu on a Mac?

Quickly access system preferences with:

  • Command + Comma (,): Open the preferences window for the currently active app (e.g., Safari preferences).

Tip: This shortcut works across most apps, making it easier to adjust settings.

How to mute your Mac’s volume?

Quickly mute the volume on your Mac with:

  • Command + Option + F11: Mute your Mac’s sound immediately.

Tip: Use the volume keys on your Mac keyboard to adjust the sound level more easily.

How to quickly open a new Finder window?

To open a new Finder window:

  • Command + N: Open a new Finder window.

Tip: Pressing this shortcut multiple times will open multiple Finder windows.

How to empty the Trash on Mac?

To quickly empty the Trash:

  • Command + Shift + Delete: Empty the Trash on your Mac.

Tip: Make sure you don’t need any files before emptying the Trash, as it’s permanent!

How to adjust the brightness on a Mac?

Adjusting the brightness on your Mac:

  • F1/F2: Decrease or increase the brightness on your Mac’s screen.

Tip: You can also adjust brightness in System Preferences under Displays.

How to clear browser history on Safari?

Clear your browsing history in Safari:

  • Command + Y: Open the History menu in Safari.
  • Command + Shift + Delete: Clear history in Safari.

Tip: Regularly clear your history for better performance and privacy.

MacBook Secrets

Secrets of the MacBook

  • 1. Quick Preview: Select a file and press Spacebar to preview it without opening an app.
  • 2. Split Screen: Hold the green maximize button to use split-screen mode.
  • 3. Emoji Shortcut: Press Control + Command + Space to access the emoji and symbols menu.
  • 4. Custom Keyboard Shortcuts: Create shortcuts in System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts.
  • 5. Spotlight for Calculations: Use Command + Space to open Spotlight and perform calculations or conversions.
  • 6. Hidden Trackpad Gestures: Swipe three fingers up to open Mission Control.
  • 7. Screenshots Made Easy: Use Command + Shift + 5 for advanced screenshot options.
  • 8. Digital Signatures: Use the Preview app to sign documents with your trackpad or camera.
  • 9. Night Shift Mode: Reduce blue light by enabling Night Shift in Display settings.
  • 10. Startup Secrets: Hold Option during startup to select a boot disk, or Command + R for Recovery Mode.
Mac vs Windows Comparison

Mac vs Windows: A Comparison

FeatureMacWindows
User InterfaceSleek and minimal with a consistent design.Highly customizable but varies by manufacturer.
Hardware IntegrationSeamless integration with Apple hardware.Wide variety of hardware options from many brands.
Software CompatibilityOptimized for creative tools like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro.Better compatibility with a wide range of software and games.
SecurityStrong security with fewer vulnerabilities.More frequent vulnerabilities but stronger antivirus options.
GamingLimited gaming options.Excellent support for gaming with DirectX and more titles.
PricePremium pricing with fewer budget options.Wide range of pricing options, from budget to high-end.
Software UpdatesRegular updates with long-term support for older devices.Frequent updates but varies by Windows version.
CustomizabilityLimited customizability.Highly customizable in both software and hardware.
EcosystemWorks seamlessly with other Apple products (iPhone, iPad).Compatibility with many third-party peripherals and devices.
Mac FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Mac

How to force restart a Mac?

To force restart your Mac when it’s unresponsive:

  • Press and hold the Power button: Hold for 10 seconds until the Mac turns off.
  • Press the Power button again: After a few seconds, press the Power button to restart it.

How to take a screenshot on a Mac?

There are different ways to take a screenshot on a Mac:

  • Command + Shift + 3: Capture the entire screen.
  • Command + Shift + 4: Capture a selected portion of the screen.
  • Command + Shift + 5: Open the screenshot toolbar for more options, including screen recording.

How to check Mac storage?

To check your Mac’s storage:

  • Click the Apple logo: Located in the top-left corner.
  • Select About This Mac: Click on the Storage tab to view your disk usage and available space.

How to turn on dark mode on Mac?

To enable dark mode:

  • Open System Preferences: Click on the Apple logo and select System Preferences.
  • Select General: Under the “Appearance” section, select Dark. You can also set it to Auto to switch between dark and light mode based on the time of day.

How to uninstall apps on Mac?

To uninstall an app on your Mac:

  • Open Finder: Go to the Applications folder.
  • Drag the app to the Trash: Or right-click and select Move to Trash.
  • Empty the Trash: Don’t forget to empty the Trash afterward to free up space.

How to use Time Machine on Mac?

Time Machine is a built-in backup feature on macOS:

  • Open System Preferences: Select Time Machine.
  • Turn on Time Machine: Select a backup disk, and Time Machine will automatically back up your files at regular intervals.

How to clear browser cache on Mac?

To clear your browser cache:

  • In Safari: Go to Safari > Preferences > Advanced, then enable Show Develop menu in menu bar. In the Develop menu, click Empty Caches.
  • For other browsers: Check their respective settings under privacy or browsing history.

How to improve Mac performance?

To speed up your Mac:

  • Close unused applications.
  • Remove unnecessary login items.
  • Clear your system cache.
  • Use Disk Utility: Repair your disk and check for issues.
  • Upgrade your RAM or SSD: If possible, upgrading your hardware can significantly improve performance.

How to reset PRAM on Mac?

Resetting the PRAM can help resolve various issues:

  • Shut down your Mac.
  • Turn it on: Immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R for about 20 seconds.
  • Release the keys: Let your Mac restart.

How to transfer files from Mac to iPhone?

To transfer files:

  • Use AirDrop: Enable AirDrop on both devices and select the file you want to send.
  • Use iCloud Drive: Upload the files to iCloud Drive and access them on your iPhone via the Files app.
  • Use iTunes or Finder: Sync files between your Mac and iPhone.