How to Assign Shortcut Keys on a Mac

If you find yourself constantly behind at work, save time by performing those repetitive computer tasks with the stroke of a key.

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You Will Need

  • Basic computer knowledge

Steps

  1. Step 1

    Open the Keyboard and Mouse folder

    Open System Preferences, and then select Keyboard and Mouse.

  2. Step 2

    Click Keyboard Shortcuts

    Click on the Keyboard Shortcuts tab and then the Plus icon in the lower left.

  3. Step 3

    Choose an application

    Choose the application to which you wish to assign the shortcut from the pop-up menu.

  4. Not all applications will allow a shortcut key to be set.

  5. Step 4

    Assign a title

    Assign a title for the action you wish to perform in the Menu Title field.

  6. You must type the command exactly as it appears in the application's menu, including ellipses or any other punctuation. To type an ellipsis, press Option-semicolon.

  7. Step 5

    Type key combination

    Type the key combination you wish to use as a shortcut in the Keyboard Shortcut field and then click Add.

  8. Hold down the Command, Control, or Option key to start your shortcut, and then any letters or numbers not already used.

  9. Step 6

    View your shortcut

    View your shortcut next to the command by closing and reopening the application you changed. This will help you to remember your shortcut for future use.

  10. Did you know? The average full-time worker admits to wasting about two hours a day, mostly by surfing the internet.

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