Top 15 Keyboard Shortcuts Every Mac User Should Know in 2024
- Think Command-C and Command-V are all your Mac can do? Wait till you see these game-changers.
- Ready to turbocharge your Mac experience? These shortcuts are the secret sauce.
- Tired of the same old routine? Discover 15 keyboard hacks that'll make your Mac feel brand new.
If you're an avid Mac user, you're probably familiar with the classic Command-C and Command-V for copy and paste. But did you know there's a whole world of shortcuts that can make your life even easier? Let's dive into the top 15 keyboard shortcuts every Mac enthusiast should master in 2024.
1. Escape (Esc)
Don't underestimate the power of the Esc key. It's your go-to for canceling ongoing operations. For instance, if you're taking a screenshot and select the wrong area, just hit Esc to cancel and start over. It's a quick fix for many minor mishaps.
2. Command (⌘) + W
Need to close the active window in a flash? Command + W has you covered. And if you're looking to close all open windows of the active app, simply press Option + Command + W.
3. Command (⌘) + Y
Quick Look is a fantastic feature for previewing files without fully opening them. Select a file in Finder and press Spacebar, or use the shortcut Command + Y for a swift preview. It's a real time-saver when sifting through documents or images. Additionally, you can tap Command + I to quickly open the "Get Info" tab for more information about any file.
Photo via The Mac Observer // Quickly preview any file, including images, using Command + Y on your Mac.
4. Command (⌘) + Comma (,)
Accessing an app's preferences doesn't have to be a chore. While you can navigate through the menu bar, pressing Command + , (comma) gets you there instantly. It's one of those lesser-known shortcuts that, once you start using it, you'll wonder how you lived without it.
5. Command (⌘) + G
We all use Command + F to find words or phrases in a document. But what if you want to jump to the next occurrence? That's where Command + G comes in. It takes you to the next instance of your search term, making document navigation a breeze. Need to go back? Shift + Command + G has your back.
6. Command (⌘) + M
When your screen is cluttered with windows, Command + M minimizes the front window to the Dock. For a clean slate, use Option + Command + M to minimize all windows of the active app.
7. Command (⌘) + Option (⌥)
Want to quickly access your desktop or a specific app's windows? Hold down Command + Option and click anywhere on the desktop to hide all windows. Alternatively, click on an app's window to bring all its windows to the forefront.
8. Finder Shortcuts
Navigate your Mac with ease using these Finder shortcuts:
- Command + Shift + A: Open Applications folder.
- Command + Shift + U: Open Utilities folder.
- Command + Shift + D: Open Desktop folder.
- Command + Shift + H: Open Home folder.
- Command + Shift + I: Access iCloud Drive.
9. Command (⌘) + Spacebar
This combo summons Spotlight, your Mac's powerful search tool. Whether you're launching apps, searching for files, or doing quick calculations, Command + Spacebar is your gateway to efficiency.
Photo via Apple Support on X // Did you know? Hitting Command + Spacebar will open Spotlight search in a flash.
10. Command (⌘) + L in Safari
While browsing in Safari, Command + L highlights the address bar, ready for you to type a new URL or search query. It's the fastest way to navigate without touching the mouse.
11. Command (⌘) + Tab
Switch between open applications effortlessly. Hold Command and tap Tab to cycle through your active apps. It's multitasking made simple.
12. Command (⌘) + Option (⌥) + D
Need more screen real estate? Toggle the Dock's visibility with Command + Option + D. Press it once to hide the Dock, and again to bring it back.
13. Function (fn) + Left/Right Arrow
Jump to the top or bottom of a webpage or document instantly. Press fn + Left Arrow to go to the top, and fn + Right Arrow to reach the end. Alternatively, Command + Up/Down Arrow works similarly.
14. Command (⌘) + Left/Right Arrow
Navigate back and forth in your web browser history. Command + Left Arrow takes you back a page, while Command + Right Arrow moves you forward.
15. Control (⌃) + Command (⌘) + Spacebar
Express yourself with emojis and special symbols by pressing Control + Command + Spacebar. This opens the Character Viewer, allowing you to insert fun and unique characters into your text.
Photo via Intego // Macs have more keyboard shortcuts than you thought. Visit Apple's full list for many more time-saving shortcuts for your Mac in 2024 or 2025 (linked below).
Bonus Tips:
- Option (⌥) + Shift + Volume/Brightness Keys: Adjust your volume or screen brightness in smaller increments for finer control.
- fn Key Twice: Activate Dictation by pressing the fn key twice. Start speaking to have your words transcribed. Press fn once more when you're done.
Incorporating these shortcuts into your daily routine can significantly boost your productivity. It's like having a secret toolbox that streamlines your workflow. Give them a try, and you'll find yourself navigating your Mac like a pro.
Visit Apple's comprehensive guide for even more Mac keyboard shortcuts that will save you time.
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