To get things done quickly, we need to use shortcut key combinations. And if you’re using a computer all day, every day, you’ll appreciate the time and effort saved.
The great thing about shortcuts is they usually have the same function from one app to another. So, once you’ve learned how to create a new document in Word (⌘+N), you can apply that same combination in Mail, Pages, Safari…
The Command key (⌘)
Shortcuts require that you first hold down a modifier key. In the macOS environment, the most commonly used modifier is the Command key (⌘) which you’ll find either side of the Space bar.
![The Command key, found either side of the Space bar.](http://howtouseamac.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/command.png)
Where to find available shortcut key combinations
If you find yourself repeatedly going to the menu bar to perform a particular action, check for keyboard shortcut by looking to the right of the item in the menu. The below screenshot is the File menu in Finder. Note each item’s corresponding shortcut key combination, indicated to the right.
![Keyboard shortcuts indicated in a menu.](http://howtouseamac.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/finder-file-menu-shortcuts.png)
Commonly used Shortcuts
⌘ + X = Cut
⌘ + C = Copy
⌘ + V = Paste
⌘ + Backspace = send to Trash
⌘ + i = Get Info
⌘ + Z = Undo (repeat as necessary)
⌘ + Shift + Z = Redo
⌘ + Q = Quit (to close an application)
⌘ + A = Select All
⌘ + Spacebar = (Spotlight) Search
To learn more about shortcuts in macOS, Apple provides a huge list the in article, macOS Keyboard shortcuts. But before you do, the lessons to follow focus on using shortcuts when switching applications; making selections; and navigating and editing text.
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Search using Spotlight | Switching between applications |