If you use Mac for work, school, or business, learning Mac keyboard shortcuts can significantly improve your productivity. Instead of constantly switching between your keyboard, mouse, and trackpad, shortcuts allow you to complete everyday tasks faster and with less effort.
This Mac keyboard shortcuts cheat sheet covers the most useful commands for macOS, including file management, screenshots, browsing, and system navigation. Whether you are a new Mac user or a long-time Apple fan, these shortcuts will help you work smarter and more efficiently.
Essential Mac Keyboard Shortcuts
These keyboard shortcuts work across most applications on macOS and are the foundation of everyday productivity.
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Copy | Command (⌘) + C |
| Paste | Command (⌘) + V |
| Cut | Command (⌘) + X |
| Undo | Command (⌘) + Z |
| Redo | Command (⌘) + Shift + Z |
| Select All | Command (⌘) + A |
| Find | Command (⌘) + F |
| Save | Command (⌘) + S |
| Command (⌘) + P | |
| Open | Command (⌘) + O |
| Close Window | Command (⌘) + W |
| Quit Application | Command (⌘) + Q |
Finder & File Management Shortcuts
Finder is the file management system on macOS. These shortcuts help you organize, open, and manage files more efficiently.
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Open Finder | Command (⌘) + Option + Space |
| New Finder Window | Command (⌘) + N |
| New Folder | Command (⌘) + Shift + N |
| Rename File | Return |
| Move File to Trash | Command (⌘) + Delete |
| Empty Trash | Command (⌘) + Shift + Delete |
| Get File Info | Command (⌘) + I |
| Quick Look Preview | Spacebar |
| Go to Folder | Command (⌘) + Shift + G |
Screenshot Shortcuts on Mac
macOS includes built-in screenshot tools, so there is no need for third-party software.
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Full Screen Screenshot | Command (⌘) + Shift + 3 |
| Selected Area Screenshot | Command (⌘) + Shift + 4 |
| Window Screenshot | Command (⌘) + Shift + 4, then Space |
| Screenshot Options Menu | Command (⌘) + Shift + 5 |
Safari & Browser Shortcuts
These shortcuts work in Safari and most modern browsers, including Chrome and Edge.
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Open New Tab | Command (⌘) + T |
| Close Tab | Command (⌘) + W |
| Reopen Closed Tab | Command (⌘) + Shift + T |
| Refresh Page | Command (⌘) + R |
| Open Address Bar | Command (⌘) + L |
| New Browser Window | Command (⌘) + N |
| New Private Window | Command (⌘) + Shift + N |
macOS System & Window Management Shortcuts
Use these shortcuts to switch between apps, manage windows, and control your system quickly.
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Spotlight Search | Command (⌘) + Space |
| Force Quit Applications | Command (⌘) + Option + Esc |
| Switch Between Apps | Command (⌘) + Tab |
| Hide Current App | Command (⌘) + H |
| Minimize Window | Command (⌘) + M |
| Show Desktop | F3 |
| Mission Control | Control + Up Arrow |
| Lock Screen | Control + Command (⌘) + Q |
Text Editing Shortcuts (Bonus Productivity Tips)
These shortcuts work in many apps, including browsers, email, and document editors
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Move Cursor to Start of Line | Command (⌘) + Left Arrow |
| Move Cursor to End of Line | Command (⌘) + Right Arrow |
| Delete Entire Line | Command (⌘) + Delete |
| Select a Word | Double-click the word |
| Select a Paragraph | Triple-click the text |
Why Learning Mac Keyboard Shortcuts Matter
Using keyboard shortcuts can save hours of time over the course of a year. They reduce repetitive mouse movements, improve focus, and prevent workflow interruptions. For business owners, professionals, and students, mastering shortcuts leads to faster task completion and a more efficiently daily workflow.
Need Help with Your Mac or Business Technology?
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For readers who want to explore official documentation and advanced macOS features, the resources below provide further reading.
-
Apple macOS Keyboard Shortcuts
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201236 -
How to Take Screenshots on a Mac
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201361 -
macOS User Guide
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help
Disclaimer:
macOS and Mac are trademarks of Apple Inc. This guide is an independent educational resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Apple.
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