Common Keyboard Shortcuts
macOS provides keyboard shortcuts that help you navigate your computer, manage applications, and complete everyday tasks more efficiently.
This guide covers commonly used keyboard shortcuts for office work, including working with documents, switching applications, capturing screenshots, and managing windows.
Tip: Most Windows shortcuts that use the Ctrl key use the Command (⌘) key on macOS. Some shortcuts may vary by application.
1. Everyday Keyboard Shortcuts
- Command + C: Copy selected text or files.
- Command + V: Paste copied content.
- Command + X: Cut selected text in supported applications.
- Command + Z: Undo the previous action.
- Shift + Command + Z: Redo the previous action in supported applications.
- Command + A: Select all available content.
- Command + S: Save the current document.
- Command + P: Open the Print dialog.
- Command + F: Find text within a document or application.
2. Managing Applications
- Command + Tab: Switch between open applications.
- Command + Q: Quit the current application.
- Command + W: Close the current window or tab.
- Command + M: Minimize the current window.
- Command + H: Hide the current application.
- Option + Command + Esc: Open Force Quit Applications.
Note: Closing a window with Command + W does not always quit the application. Use Command + Q to fully quit an application.
3. Files and Finder
- Command + N: Open a new Finder window when Finder is active.
- Shift + Command + N: Create a new folder in Finder.
- Command + Delete: Move selected files to the Trash.
- Command + I: Display information about a selected file.
- Space: Preview a selected file using Quick Look.
- Shift + Command + G: Open Go to Folder in Finder.
- Option + Command + V: Move a copied file to the current Finder location.
Tip: To move a file in Finder, copy it with Command + C, navigate to the destination, then press Option + Command + V.
4. Taking Screenshots
- Shift + Command + 3: Capture the entire screen.
- Shift + Command + 4: Capture a selected portion of the screen.
- Shift + Command + 4, then Space: Capture a specific window.
- Shift + Command + 5: Open screenshot and screen recording controls.
Tip: Screenshots are typically saved to your Desktop unless you have changed the save location.
5. Windows and Desktop Navigation
- Control + Up Arrow: Open Mission Control to view open windows and desktops.
- Control + Down Arrow: View windows belonging to the current application.
- Control + Left Arrow: Switch to the previous desktop or Space.
- Control + Right Arrow: Switch to the next desktop or Space.
- Command + `: Switch between windows of the same application.
- Control + Command + F: Enter or exit full screen in supported applications.
Note: Some navigation shortcuts depend on your keyboard settings and whether multiple desktops are configured.
6. Search and System Shortcuts
- Command + Space: Open Spotlight Search.
- Control + Command + Q: Lock your Mac.
- Option + Command + D: Show or hide the Dock.
- Option + Command + F5: Open Accessibility Shortcuts on supported Macs.
- Command + Comma (,): Open preferences or settings for the current application, when supported.
Tip: Spotlight Search is a quick way to find applications, files, and settings. Press Command + Space and begin typing.
7. Working with Multiple Displays
macOS does not have a direct equivalent to the Windows + P shortcut for switching between extended and mirrored displays.
To manage external displays:
- Select the Apple menu.
- Open System Settings.
- Select Displays.
- Choose your preferred display arrangement or mirroring option.
Tip: Use Mission Control shortcuts to navigate windows and desktops when working with multiple monitors.
Troubleshooting / Notes
- Shortcut not working: Confirm the correct application is active. Some shortcuts only work in certain applications.
- Different keyboard layout: Shortcut keys may vary depending on the keyboard and macOS settings.
- Application not responding: Use Option + Command + Esc to open Force Quit Applications.
- Shortcut conflicts: Some applications may use or override standard macOS shortcuts.
Additional Resources
For additional support and self-help resources, visit the ITS Service Catalog at help.maricopa.edu or contact the District Information Technology Service support line at 480-731-8632.