If you’re a Mac user looking to speed up your workflow, mastering keyboard shortcuts is a total game-changer. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, these time-saving combinations can make your experience smoother, faster, and more efficient—without ever touching the mouse.
In this guide, we’ve curated 30+ must-know Mac keyboard shortcuts to help you get the most out of macOS. From everyday basics to pro-level tips, we’ve got you covered.
✨ Why Use Keyboard Shortcuts on Mac?
Using shortcuts not only makes you faster—it can also:
- Reduce repetitive strain from constant clicking.
- Help you multitask more effectively.
- Give you full control over macOS features.
🔑 Basic Mac Shortcuts Everyone Should Know
These are the classic Mac shortcuts you’ll use every single day:
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| ⌘ + C | Copy selected item |
| ⌘ + X | Cut selected item |
| ⌘ + V | Paste |
| ⌘ + Z | Undo |
| ⌘ + Shift + Z | Redo |
| ⌘ + A | Select all |
| ⌘ + S | Save |
| ⌘ + P | |
| ⌘ + Q | Quit the active app |
Pro Tip: Combine ⌘ + Tab to switch between recently used apps for next-level multitasking.
💻 Navigation & App Control Shortcuts
Take full control of macOS navigation and window management:
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| ⌘ + Tab | Switch between open apps |
| ⌘ + ` (backtick) | Cycle through windows of current app |
| ⌘ + Space | Launch Spotlight Search |
| ^ + ↑ (Control + Up Arrow) | Open Mission Control |
| ^ + ↓ (Control + Down Arrow) | Show app windows |
| ⌘ + H | Hide current window |
| ⌘ + Option + H | Hide other apps |
📂 Finder Shortcuts for File Management
Navigate Finder like a pro and manage your files faster:
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| ⌘ + N | New Finder window |
| ⌘ + Shift + N | New folder |
| ⌘ + Delete | Move to Trash |
| ⌘ + Shift + Delete | Empty Trash |
| ⌘ + D | Duplicate item |
| ⌘ + T | Open a new tab in Finder |
| ⌘ + I | Get info on selected item |
📸 Screenshot Shortcuts on Mac
Snag screenshots with these built-in shortcuts:
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| ⌘ + Shift + 3 | Capture the entire screen |
| ⌘ + Shift + 4 | Capture a selected portion |
| ⌘ + Shift + 5 | Open Screenshot tool (with video recording options) |
✍️ Text Navigation & Editing Shortcuts
Editing documents or emails? These shortcuts help you fly through text:
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| Option + → / ← | Jump between words |
| ⌘ + → / ← | Jump to beginning/end of line |
| ⌘ + ↑ / ↓ | Jump to top/bottom of document |
| ⌘ + B / I / U | Bold / Italic / Underline text |
🛠️ Advanced Mac Shortcuts for Power Users
Level up with these shortcuts that give you quick access to power features:
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| ⌘ + Option + Esc | Force quit apps |
| ⌘ + , (comma) | Open app preferences/settings |
| ⌘ + Shift + ? | Open Help menu |
📌 Final Thoughts: Memorize These, Thank Yourself Later
Whether you’re navigating windows, editing text, or managing files, these keyboard shortcuts are designed to save you clicks, time, and effort. Start with the basics, build them into your muscle memory, and soon you’ll be zipping through macOS like a pro.
💡 Pro Tip:
Use tools like CheatSheet or CustomShortcuts to explore even more hidden Mac keyboard gems.
🔍 FAQ: Mac Keyboard Shortcuts
Q: What’s the fastest way to find shortcuts for a specific Mac app?
A: Press ⌘ + / or look in the app’s menu bar for shortcut hints next to each option.
Q: Do these shortcuts work on all Macs?
A: Yes! These shortcuts are compatible with macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and most recent versions.
✅ Bonus Download: Free Mac Shortcuts PDF
Want a printable version? Click below to download a printable Pdf copy and keep it handy!