How to use common keyboard shortcuts in Apple OS X 10.10 Yosemite

To use a keyboard shortcut, hold down one or more modifier keys while pressing the last key of the shortcut. For example, to use the shortcut Command-C (copy), hold down Command, press C, then release both keys. Mac menus and keyboards often use symbols for certain keys, including the modifier keys:

Note: Mac key convention: ‘Ctrl’ is used for ‘Control’, ‘Apple’ is used for ‘Command’ (⌘) and ‘Alt’ is used for the ‘Option’ (⌥) key.

Note: For keyboard access make sure ‘Full keyboard access’ is turned on – you can turn it on or off; by pressing ‘Ctrl’ + ‘F1’ at any time.

If you're using a keyboard made for Windows PCs, use the Alt key instead of Option, and the Windows logo key instead of Command. Some Mac keyboards and shortcuts use special keys in the top row, which include icons for volume, display brightness, and other functions. Press the icon key to perform that function, or combine it with the Fn key to use it as an F1, F2, F3, or other standard function key.

To learn more shortcuts, check the menus of the app you're using. Every app can have its own shortcuts, and shortcuts that work in one app may not work in another.

Cut, copy, paste, and other common shortcuts

• Apple + X - Cut: Remove the selected item and copy it to the Clipboard.
• Apple + C - Copy: Copy the selected item to the Clipboard.
• Apple + V - Paste: Paste the contents of the Clipboard into the current document or app.
• Apple + Z - Undo: Undo the previous command.
• Apple + A - Select All: Selects all items in a list or folder.
• Apple + F - Find: Open a Find window, or find items in a document.
• Apple + G - Find Again: Find the next occurrence of the item previously found.
• Apple + H - Hide: Hide the windows of the front app.
• Apple + M - Minimize: Minimize the front window to the Dock.
• Apple + N - New: Open a new document or window.
• Apple + O - Open: Open the selected item, or open a dialog to select a file to open.
• Apple + P - Print: Print the current document.
• Apple + S - Save: Saves the current document.
• Apple + W - Close: Closes the front Window.
• Apple + Q - Quit: Quits the current app.
• Apple + Space bar - Spotlight: Show or hide the Spotlight search field.

For a comprehensive list of all Apple keyboard shortcuts please go to the Apple support website.