Bored Mac User
One of the many things that make Mac computers stand out is the multitude of productivity-boosting shortcuts they offer. Whether you’re a long-time Mac user or new to the ecosystem, these unknown MacOS shortcuts might just be the productivity hack you’re looking for. Let’s dive in!
1. Spotlight Search (Command + Space):
You probably know about this one, but it’s worth mentioning due to its immense usefulness. Pressing Command + Space launches the Spotlight search, where you can find applications, documents, or even do simple arithmetic without launching a calculator app.
2. Quick Dictionary Access (Command + Control + D):
Reading a document and stumble upon a word you’re unfamiliar with? Simply hover the cursor over the word and press Command + Control + D to bring up a quick definition without opening a new tab.
3. Cycle Between Apps (Command + Tab):
Swiftly switch between your active apps using the Command + Tab shortcut. Pressing Tab while holding Command will cycle through your open applications.
4. Close Apps Instantly (Command + Q):
Closing an app is as simple as hitting Command + Q. This is a faster alternative to clicking the red X on the window, which often only closes the window but not the application itself.
5. Screenshot Snippet (Command + Shift + 4):
To quickly capture a portion of your screen, press Command + Shift + 4. Your cursor will turn into a crosshair, which you can drag to select the area you want to screenshot. The image is saved directly to your desktop.
6. Instantly Lock Your Mac (Command + Control + Q):
Ensure your Mac’s security when you’re away from your desk by pressing Command + Control + Q to instantly lock your screen.
7. Show Desktop (Command + F3):
Is your screen cluttered with open windows and you need to access a file on your desktop? Use Command + F3 to quickly hide all those open windows and display your desktop.
8. Open Emoji Keyboard (Control + Command + Space):
Emojis aren’t just for smartphones! Brighten up your emails and documents by accessing the emoji keyboard using Control + Command + Space.
9. Force Quit a Frozen App (Command + Option + Esc):
When an app isn’t responding, hit Command + Option + Esc to bring up the Force Quit dialog box. You can then select the problematic app and force it to quit.
10. Quickly Access System Preferences (Command + ,):
While in any application, quickly bring up the System Preferences dialog box by pressing Command + , (comma). This is a great shortcut for making quick adjustments.
And there you have it! Ten lesser-known MacOS shortcuts that can truly transform your productivity. Remember, the key to effectively using shortcuts is practice. Before you know it, these combinations will become second nature and you’ll wonder how you ever got by without them!
Stay tuned for more tips and tricks on our favorite Apple products. Happy navigating!
