How to use command key on mac. Here’s a guide to the best shortcuts for Apple Macs.
How to use command key on mac. You should release the keys until hearing the second startup sound or seeing the Apple logo appear and disappear twice. While using your Logitech keyboard, you may work more efficiently and save time by being familiar with fundamental Command key shortcuts. Also learn how to change or create keyboard shortcuts on Mac. Keyboard layouts can vary by language and app. For example, instead of moving the pointer to the menu bar to choose File > New Window, you can press the Command and N keys. There is a lot of trial and Feb 1, 2019 · Instead of using a ⌘ Symbol whenever writing anything which requires keystrokes / shortcuts because for most of the time that I have been using Apple computers it was called the "apple key" . The Command key, often represented by the ⌘ symbol, is more than just another button on your Mac keyboard. I can to say that the Control key in Windows was divided between Cmd and Control keys on MacOS. Apr 18, 2022 · Top 100 keyboard shortcuts for Mac to quickly get things done in Finder, Safari and while text editing with iWork applications like Pages. The Control key functionality on MacOS is "quite same" on Windows, but only for some functions. g. Jul 22, 2024 · Wondering how to use a Windows Keyboard with a Mac? Here's how you can modify the keys using the built-in tool on macOS. ) no longer work. You can Dec 27, 2020 · My experience with PC keyboards on Macs is that they work at a very basic level--text entry--but whether the F-keys and Mac startup combos work is something for the Las Vegas oddsmakers. For example, the Undo shortcut would use Control+Z instead of Command+Z. Thanks! Feb 26, 2011 · is there any way to change the use of command key to control, somewhat globally in the system? for example instead of cmd+S, to use ctrl+S, but everywhere in the system Feb 13, 2017 · I have been trying to learn the keyboard shortcuts for the shell on macOS, but when I tried using ALT+B, it did not work. Learn how to copy and paste on iPhone or copy and paste on iPad. Learn to customize keyboard settings, swap command and control keys, and adjust modifier keys. Feb 3, 2024 · Learn how to master Mac keyboard shortcuts for cutting, copying, and pasting with ease. Mac modifiers keys such as Control/Ctrl (⌃) and Command/Cmd (⌘) are used in combination with other letter or digit keys to perform such functions. Every app can have its own shortcuts, and shortcuts that work in one app may not work in another. It’s a gateway to a universe of shortcuts, hidden commands, and ninja-level efficiency. No amount of preference tickling made a difference. Mac keyboard shortcuts By pressing certain key combinations, you can take actions that normally require a mouse or trackpad. I would think that the Windo Sep 5, 2023 · command key for keyboard shortcuts no longer works I'm using a Logitech K380 Mac-compatible bluetooth keyboard. Jun 16, 2025 · The ultimate guide for MacBook keyboards, including symbols chart/diagram, accessing special characters, and useful keyboard shortcuts in Mac OS. 14 or later, you can use the Screenshot app to take screenshots, set a screenshot timer, choose where screenshots are saved, record a video of your screen, and more. Press Command-R and Option-P keys when Mac re-startup to reset NVRAM. An "extended" Macintosh keyboard—the most common type—has two command keys, one on each side of the space bar; some compact Mar 8, 2023 · To use a keyboard shortcut, press and hold one or more modifier keys and then press the last key of the shortcut. Jun 9, 2020 · 70+ Windows equivalent Mac shortcuts for users switching from Windows to Mac for managing apps and actvities easily using keyboard. yes! In VIA, Control key is the same on Mac and Windows. Dec 21, 2020 · I have the circle with a line through it. ) Jun 29, 2023 · Want to use your Apple Magic keyboard with your Windows 11 PC? Here is how you can setup and use Magic Keyboard on Windows 11. It will start your Mac over the Internet from the latest macOS that is compatible with your Mac. Feb 6, 2013 · Does anyone know the equivalent to the command key on a non-apple keyboard? I am trying to delete the data on my hard drive by pressing command + R when rebooting but I don't have the command key on my keyboard. Feb 6, 2025 · Or press Control in addition to the other keys you press to take the screenshot. Using keyboard shortcuts Cut, copy, paste and other common shortcuts Sleep, log out and shutdown shortcuts Finder and system shortcuts Text-editing shortcuts Accessibility Dec 21, 2023 · Your Mac keyboard is more than just a way to type words. Whether you are using a MacBook Air How to use keyboard shortcuts To use a keyboard shortcut, press and hold one or more modifier keys, then press the last key of the shortcut. Almost all the other important shortcuts also use the CTRL key. Learn how to use the Alt key on a Mac keyboard and more MAC shortcuts here. The basic method uses keyboard shortcuts. Final Words The Command key on a Logitech keyboard is a crucial tool for Mac users since it offers a variety of practical shortcuts and features. However, many users have asked, "Where is the command key on a MacBook?" In this article, we’ll provide you with the answer and some helpful tips on how to use the command key effectively. The Option key functions similarly to the AltGr key on many PC keyboards, which explains why it also has "Alt" printed on it. Or use Option-Command-R or Shift-Option-Command-R to start up from macOS Recovery over the internet. In this article, we will explore the world of keyboard layouts, discuss the differences between Mac and Windows keyboards, and provide a detailed guide on how to use Feb 1, 2024 · Your keyboard can do a lot more than you realize. (On keyboards made for Windows PCs, press the Alt key instead of Option, and the Ctrl key or Windows logo key instead of Command. Jun 22, 2021 · Setup the Command Key on a Windows Keyboard Plug your keyboard into the USB port on your Mac, Macbook, iMac, Mac Pro, Mac Mini, or whatever you’ve got. Nov 3, 2021 · How to Undo and Redo Using Your Keyboard If you'd like to use a keyboard shortcut to Undo the previous action you just performed, press Command+Z on your Mac keyboard. However, USB keyboards, especially those not Apr 24, 2025 · Find what the Apple Command key is, where to find it, and how to use it with essential shortcuts to boost your productivity on Mac. Jun 22, 2021 · Plug your keyboard into the USB port on your Mac, Macbook, iMac, Mac Pro, Mac Mini, or whatever you’ve got. Since upgrading to MacOS Monterrey I’ve had an issue where some of the basic command key combos, such as CMD+X, CMD+V, CMD+C, and more were not working from my Logitech K850 keyboard. , A, C, V, etc). VoiceOver commands (when using VoiceOver, you may need to make VoiceOver ignore the next key press before you can use certain keyboard shortcuts) Use Mouse Keys to control the pointer with your keyboard Use a spoken command for a keyboard shortcut App-specific May 24, 2022 · Wondering which keyboard shortcut to use? We run through the various key combinations using Option, Control, Command, Fn and other keys on your Mac keyboard. It is especially important for shortcuts, as many Mac users rely heavily on these for efficiency and speed in their work. The Command key's purpose is to allow the user to enter keyboard commands in applications and in the system. You’ll still find Control on a Mac keyboard, but it’s used less often. . Key combinations for an Intel-based Mac Command (⌘)-R: Start up from the built-in macOS Recovery system. Just open Keyboard Preferences, and click the Modifier Keys… button in the Keyboard tab. For a new user on Mac, it may take you a while to get used to the Mac keyboard and macOS operating system. Mar 3, 2014 · In summary, on a Mac, you'll probably be pressing the Command key to issue keyboard shortcuts. In macOS Mojave 10. Oct 14, 2023 · Have you ever experienced the frustrating experience of your Mac’s Command key getting stuck? It can be a real pain, especially if you rely on the Command key for many common tasks, such as opening apps, copying and pasting, and using keyboard shortcuts. ) Aug 5, 2025 · This post guides users to the Command key on the Mac keyboard and provides a shortcut list of the combinations involved in it so they can make the best use of it. If you also press and hold the Control key while taking a screenshot, the screenshot is saved to the Clipboard, ready to be pasted. Are you a Mac user who has recently switched to a Dell computer, or perhaps a Windows user who is familiar with the Command key on a Mac keyboard? If so, you may be wondering where the Command key is located on a Dell keyboard. Mar 17, 2021 · The Command key is used with a single letter key for many of the Mac’s most common actions: Command-C to copy, Command-P to print, Command-V to paste and so on. Aug 14, 2023 · Find out the purpose and function of the Command key on a Windows keyboard, and how it differs from the Control key. Here's a Mac keyboard shortcut guide to help you out. Dec 9, 2013 · System Preferences -> Keyboard -> Modifier Keys You should be able to make the Command key a control key, and the control key a command key. Here are the best Mac keyboard shortcuts to get stuff done faster. Option-Command-F5 or triple-press Touch ID: Show the Accessibility Shortcuts panel. (For example, on Apple and Microsoft's own websites… How to use keyboard shortcuts To use a keyboard shortcut, press and hold one or more modifier keys, then press the last key of the shortcut. Nov 11, 2021 · The command key is most familiar to people using the apple devices. Command + C instead of Control + C) to make it more linear across MacOS and Windows. There are a few possible reasons why your Command key might get stuck. On the PC keyboard, the CTRL key is in the bottom left corner of the keyboard. I'm trying to follow Apple directions to fix but I don't have an Apple keyboard. https://macmost. Aug 5, 2025 · That key is the Command key. So, it's very easy to hold it with your pinky, while keeping your hand in its normal position, so you can easily press the other key required for the shortcut (e. If you get and use KeyRemap4MacBook, you can make a lot of other keyboard modifications, such as a "Forward Delete" key (which seems to be popular with the Windows group). Apr 30, 2023 · David & David tell you about 45 Mac keyboard shortcuts that are life-changing and easy to learn. Using keyboard shortcuts Cut, copy, paste and other common shortcuts Sleep, log out and shutdown shortcuts Finder and system shortcuts Text-editing shortcuts Accessibility May 22, 2025 · Discover how to change option and command key functions on a Mac. On a Mac, Command (⌘) takes center stage. Jan 13, 2025 · #2 Can I use Windows keyboard shortcuts on a Mac? No. With it you could reassign (for example) Control or Alt be your Command key. Jan 23, 2025 · Understanding the Command Key The Command key is a fundamental aspect of the Mac experience. Jun 4, 2025 · For example, to use Command-C, press and hold the Command key, then the C key, then release both keys. On Windows, shortcuts revolve around the Control (Ctrl) key. Right-click or Control-click and choose “Copy” from the menu. Back in 10. In the lower-right-hand corner, click Modifier How to use keyboard shortcuts To use a keyboard shortcut, press and hold one or more modifier keys, then press the last key of the shortcut. How do you discover, configure and use keybindings in the shell? Any cheat Use macOS keyboard shortcuts You can use keystroke combinations, called keyboard shortcuts, to perform tasks more quickly on your Mac. 3) Show more Posted on Oct 4, 2006 4:21 AM Question marked as Top-ranking reply User profile for user: jasongraphix jasongraphix Level 1 13 points Posted on Oct 5, 2006 Aug 5, 2025 · This post elaborates on the Mac delete keyboard shortcuts and command line. Jan 24, 2018 · The Alt key does exist on Mac and it's called Option key. For example, instead of pressing Shift-Command-3, press Control-Shift-Command-3. The wrong things will happen on your Mac, then you'll swear. If some prominent keys are not working on your MacBook, you can easily reassign their functions to other buttons on your keyboard. The last one I used with Win under BootCamp had the ALT and Windows key functions reversed from what K Shaffer's article shows. Aug 5, 2025 · Option-Command-N: Create a new Smart Folder We appreciate your kind sharing. Instead, think of Command as the Mac’s answer to Aug 5, 2025 · If you find the Mac Command key not working, you can try the solutions here to fix it so that you can use keyboard shortcuts on your Mac that include the Command key. Mar 13, 2025 · Then shut down or restart and try again. It is primarily used in combination with other keys to perform various shortcut commands, similar to the Control key in Windows. Jul 29, 2015 · I would much rather point to this previous question/answer in a comment but my rep does not allow comments. Mac menus and keyboards often use symbols for certain keys, including modifier keys. (It's also similar to pressing Ctrl+Z on a Windows PC. When I plug my keyboard into a Windows machine the key is the Win key, in a position that matches the Mac. #3 What if a keyboard shortcut doesn’t work in an app? Check the app’s menu bar for correct shortcut. This is equivalent to selecting Edit > Undo in the menu bar. Wrapping up There are some layout variations you'll notice between an Apple keyboard and a Windows keyboard, and the Alt key is one of them. Unlock the full potential of your keyboard with our step-by-step guide and expert tips. This lets you change the behaviour of the keys on each attached keyboard (make sure you select your external one from the top drop-down menu). Using keyboard shortcuts Cut, copy, paste and other common shortcuts Sleep, log out and shutdown shortcuts Finder and system shortcuts Text-editing shortcuts Accessibility On your Mac, change the action that modifier keys, such as Control or Option, perform when you press them. Here’s a guide to the best shortcuts for Apple Macs. Learn how to navigate Windows with ease as a Mac user. Nov 9, 2021 · Earlier this year I did a blog post, Working From Home – Permanently, in which I recommend using a good keyboard especially when you have multiple computers. Jul 22, 2025 · Why Commands Feel So Different on a Mac At first glance, the Mac keyboard might look similar to a Windows one, but there’s one big difference: the Command key. In the lower-right-hand corner, click Modifier Jun 4, 2025 · For example, to use Command-C, press and hold the Command key, then the C key, then release both keys. The Command key (sometimes abbreviated as Cmd key), ⌘, formerly also known as the Apple key or open Apple key, is a modifier key present on Apple keyboards. Aug 5, 2025 · Hit Command-R and Option key when booting up your Mac. Then, you have to deal with two keys instead of one. For example, instead of pressing Control-S to save and Control-C to like you did in Windows, you’ll have to press Command-S and Command-C to do the same thing in macOS. I have a apple computer, and am running the apple operating system within a VM on that machine. com/e-2639 If you have recently switched from Windows, you may be confused about some things on the Mac keyboard such as the Command key, Option key or Globe key. After reading, you will know how to delete a file/folder or multiple ones using keyboard shortcuts and the command lines. Remapping a Windows keyboard so that the key positions match a standard Mac keyboard is pretty easy. May 30, 2025 · Find out here how to locate the “Command” (Cmd) key on your Mac, Windows PC or Unix keyboard. It’s the conductor of your Mac orchestra, the secret ingredient in your productivity recipe, and the gateway to a smoother, more intuitive computing experience. Jan 3, 2021 · When you buy a Mac, you’ll need to start using the command key instead of the control key. The Control (Ctrl) key is also present, but it isn't used for as many things. How do I send keyboard combos that use the command key to the VM? W Sep 24, 2024 · Copying and pasting on a Mac is easy. Aug 12, 2015 · If you aren't using an Apple-branded keyboard, such as one with a Windows key, then that will double as the "Command" key on your Mac, however, Windows still uses "Control" as its modifier so while you may be used to using "Command" on your Mac, on Windows all that will typically do is open the Start menu. 4 there is a “Modifier Keys…” that lets you remap the modifier keys. For example, shortcuts like Command+C for copy, Command+V for paste, and Command+Q for quit are all widely known and used among Mac users. They want me to use command and R. What is that on a regular keyboard ? Thanks Jan 23, 2022 · The result of this simple change is that when my keyboard plugs into a Mac, the key works as the Command key like I'd expect, in the standard position. Select the item to copy. What is the function of the Command key? Can I change the function of the special keys on my physical keyboard? That is why they are so busy cleaning them. May 28, 2021 · How to completely disable Command + W keyboard shortcut globally I'm trying to play a game while on Discord and always have my push to talk button set to Command. Dec 27, 2024 · Common Mac keyboard shortcuts to work faster: Use basic keyboard shortcuts like Command ⌘ + X, Command ⌘ + C, and Command ⌘ + V to cut, copy, and paste. Apr 12, 2025 · Master Mac keyboard shortcuts to boost productivity, streamline tasks, and unlock hidden features for a seamless user experience. You can master the Command key by learning how to use Apr 7, 2025 · Note Use the Command key in place of the "Open Apple" key in the shortcuts below for later versions of macOS. I cannot figure out how to invoke the Apple Command key function from my Windows keyboard. Note: Keyboard shortcuts in apps may vary depending on the language and keyboard layout you’re using on your Mac. In just a few clicks, you’ll have your Windows keyboard functioning just like a Mac’s. To turn the Windows standard Ctrl ⊞Win Alt configuration to Aug 11, 2023 · This post lists 65 useful Mac keyboard shortcuts to help you perform actions on Mac more quickly. Between that two keys on Mac, the mainly is This collection of keyboard shortcuts for macOS can help users get the most from their iMacs, MacBook Pro and MacBook laptops. Learn how to use keyboard shortcuts on your Mac to help you perform actions using key combinations that normally require a mouse or trackpad. Use Command ⌘ + Shift ⇧ + 4 to take the screenshot of the When using a Windows keyboard on a Mac, the Windows key is used instead of the Command key, and the Alt key is used in place of the Option key. Mac users can copy and paste using the mouse or trackpad too. The VM is running with VMWare. These shortcuts allow you to quickly open any app or file, take a screenshot on your Mac, type like Nov 16, 2021 · macOS keyboard shortcuts streamline Mac operations and boost your productivity. By harnessing the power of these keyboard Aug 20, 2023 · Learn how to effectively use the command key on your Logitech keyboard for effortless navigation and improved productivity. Maybe it is also there in whichever version of Mac OS X you are using. Say goodbye to tedious mouse clicks and hello to efficiency. The left ⌘ (Command) Key does not work because it is set as the Host (Meta) Key in VirtualBox. You can also use the keyboard viewer to see your current keyboard layout, known as an input source. My laptop is Mac and I use a MS Sculpt windows Keyboard (where the Windows key is the Command button) and about 1/3 of the time I'm connected to a remote windows computer. It is used in conjunction with other keys to execute commands quickly, improving efficiency and user experience. macOS Recovery installs different versions of macOS, depending on the key combination you use. Nov 2, 2015 · I'm using Chrome Remote Desktop on a Windows Desktop to access an Apple iMac. On Windows, the Command key is replaced by the Control key, but there are ways to emulate the Command key on Windows for users who are accustomed to using Mac keyboards. Dec 6, 2023 · Want to remap your Mac modifier/ non-modifier/ or function keys to something else? Here's how to remap and modify keys on your Mac keyboard. Press Command + C to copy and Command + V to paste. Mac menus and keyboards often use symbols for certain keys, including modifier keys: * Command (or Cmd) ⌘ * Shift ⇧ Nov 6, 2024 · Keyboard shortcuts are a great way to speed things up when you’re using a Mac. Improve your Mac experience with these simple steps and enhance productivity with optimized keyboard shortcuts and workflow. Mar 17, 2025 · The top row of keys on your Apple keyboard can control built-in Mac features or be used as standard function keys. How to use keyboard shortcuts To use a keyboard shortcut, press and hold one or more modifier keys, then press the last key of the shortcut. After completing the action, your Windows keyboard will work seamlessly with your Mac, allowing you to Dec 24, 2024 · The Command key is a key found on Apple keyboards, used as a modifier key for keyboard shortcuts. Hi there! I was just wondering if there’s an easy way to switch the command and control keys on a Mac keyboard (Ex. Memorize these useful Mac keyboard shortcuts to navigate your computer even faster. Jun 22, 2021 · Is there any way to remap keys on the MacOS version of Remote Desktop? The mapping of the Command and Option keys to the Windows keyboard layout is backwards to every US keyboard layout I can find. Check in the Keyboard tab of the “Keyboard & Mouse” preference pane in System Preferences. (and the symbol physically written on the key was a and not a ⌘) Nov 24, 2020 · This is the ultimate collection of Mac keyboard shortcuts for navigating your Mac, invoking actions, and maneuvering apps. Dec 31, 2024 · The Command key, often referred to as the "Apple key," is one of the most crucial keys on a Mac keyboard. They've worked fine on this keyboard for several years, until today. 4. How to Change the Command Key for a Mac on a Windows Keyboard When using a Mac, the Command key is an essential part of the keyboard’s functionality. Keyboard shortcuts include one or more modifier keys (such as Caps Lock or Control) and a final key, pressed at the same time. There are 3 answers: Windows key when running windows through virtual box on a mac By default it's the right ⌘ (Command) Key. A Mac keyboard has many keys that function the same as keys on a Windows keyboard but have different names. Use Finder shortcuts like Command ⌘ + N to open a new Finder window or Command ⌘ + W to close the current window. Dec 24, 2024 · In this article, we’ll show you how to shut down, restart or put your MacBook to sleep using keyboard shortcuts. It’s used to perform various tasks, such as copying and pasting text, searching for files, and more. To paste, right-click or Control-click where you Aug 5, 2025 · What are Mac modifier keys You may have noticed there are some keyboard shortcut symbols when accessing the Apple Menu or various app menus, such as ⌃⌘Q for "Lock Screen", ⌘R for "Reload This Page", etc. You’ll need to access your Mac’s System Preferences, select the Keyboard section, and modify the Modifier Keys settings. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard. Mac uses different modifier keys: Command (⌘) instead of Ctrl, Option (⌥) instead of Alt. Aug 11, 2023 · This post lists 65 useful Mac keyboard shortcuts to help you perform actions on Mac more quickly. These shortcuts work for text, files, and images in most apps. Oct 4, 2006 · I'm using a logitech wireless keyboard, apparently, it uses the wrong keys for command and alt functions, so i need them switched (back) around, how do I do that? Mac OS X (10. Learn how to change the command, and option keys on Mac. Sep 13, 2021 · Sometimes a keyboard shortcut is the quickest way to run a command, open an app, or access a feature in macOS. If the shortcuts below don’t work as you expect, look in the app menus in the menu bar to see the correct shortcuts. Enhance your productivity with this essential keyboard shortcut. For example, any time you reflexively try to use a keyboard shortcut that includes the Command key, you’ll end up hitting Alt instead. Jan 11, 2024 · Changing the command key for a Mac on a Windows keyboard is a simple process. Nov 17, 2024 · The command key, also known as the Command (⌘) key, is a crucial input method on MacBooks. All those features can make computer navigation easier. Aug 23, 2023 · Learn more If you're using a keyboard made for Windows PCs and it doesn't have a Command ⌘ key, try using the Ctrl key or Windows logo key instead. As of today, the command key couplets (cmd) + action key (X = delete, C = copy, V = paste, W = close file, etc. Mar 18, 2024 · The Command key on Mac has an equivalent on Windows - the Ctrl key. For example, to use Command-C (copy), press and hold the Command key, then the C key, then release both keys. Here, we will find out what is command key and how command key is mapped into Windows keyboard. ubhkjtmgttpwjuzuvvdmhfbkqzhpdksvrwgcglfnyttjmjh
