Mac: useful keyboard shortcuts for everyday use

Keyboard shortcuts save time and make a Mac feel easier to use. Most start with the Command key, which sits next to the space bar.

Everyday shortcuts

• Command and C: copy what you have selected.
• Command and V: paste it.
• Command and X: cut it (copy it and remove it).
• Command and Z: undo your last action. Add Shift to redo.
• Command and S: save your work.
• Command and P: print.
• Command and A: select everything.
• Command and F: find a word on the page.

Opening, closing and switching

• Command and Space: open Spotlight search, to find apps and files quickly.
• Command and Tab: switch between open apps.
• Command and Q: quit the app. Command and W closes just the window.
• Command and N: a new window or document.
• Command and T: a new tab in a browser.
• Command and comma: open the settings of the current app.

Files and the desktop

• Command and Delete: move the selected file to the Trash.
• Command, Shift and Delete: empty the Trash. You will be asked to confirm.
• Space bar: preview a selected file in Finder without opening it.

Handy extras

• Control, Command and Space: show the emoji and symbols box.
• Option, Command and Esc: open Force Quit when an app is stuck.
• Command, Shift and 5: screenshots and screen recording.
• Control, Command and Q: lock your screen.

Learn them slowly

Pick two or three and use them for a week before trying more. If you are not sure what a shortcut does, look at the menus at the top of the screen. Shortcuts are shown beside many menu items.

When to get more help

Contact us if a shortcut does nothing, if the keys type the wrong characters, or if you want a Windows keyboard to work properly with a Mac.