How to create keyboard shortcuts on Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read

Expert Verified

Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Creating keyboard shortcuts on a Mac allows users to streamline their workflow and enhance productivity by assigning custom commands to specific key combinations. This guide provides detailed steps for setting up these shortcuts across various macOS versions.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before creating keyboard shortcuts on your Mac, ensure you meet the following requirements:

•macOS version 10.10 (Yosemite) or later is recommended for full functionality.
•Administrator access may be required to modify system-wide shortcuts.
•Familiarity with the macOS interface and keyboard layout.
•Backup important data in case of system changes.

Method 1: Using System Preferences

This method is ideal for creating custom keyboard shortcuts for menu items in applications or system functions.

•Step 1: Open System Preferences by clicking the Apple menu () in the top-left corner and selecting 'System Preferences'.
•Step 2: Click on 'Keyboard', then select the 'Shortcuts' tab.
•Step 3: In the left sidebar, choose the category for your shortcut (e.g., 'App Shortcuts'). Click the '+' button below the right pane.
•Step 4: In the dialog that appears, select the application you want to create a shortcut for, enter the exact menu title of the command, and assign your desired key combination (e.g., Command + Option + N). Click 'Add'.
•Step 5: To verify it worked, open the application and check if the new shortcut performs the intended action.
•Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure that the menu title matches exactly, including capitalization and punctuation.

For macOS Monterey (12) and later

In macOS Monterey and later, you can also create shortcuts for Quick Actions and Automator workflows.

•Step 1: Follow the same steps to access System Preferences and Keyboard settings.
•Step 2: Select 'Services' in the left sidebar.
•Step 3: Scroll down to find your Quick Action and assign a shortcut using the same '+' method.

For macOS Big Sur (11) and earlier

The process remains largely the same, but some menu options may vary slightly.

•Step 1: Access System Preferences and navigate to Keyboard.
•Step 2: The 'Shortcuts' tab will have similar options, but some features may not be available.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Applications

For more advanced shortcut creation, consider using third-party applications like BetterTouchTool or Keyboard Maestro.

•Step 1: Download and install BetterTouchTool from its official website.
•Step 2: Open the application and navigate to the 'Keyboard' section.
•Step 3: Click 'Add New Shortcut or Key Sequence' and define your shortcut and action.
•Step 4: To verify, test the shortcut in the designated application.
•Step 5: If it doesn’t work, check for conflicts with existing shortcuts in the application or macOS.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while creating or using keyboard shortcuts, consider the following solutions:

•Error: 'Shortcut already in use' - Solution: Check existing shortcuts in the same category and choose a different combination.
•Issue: 'Shortcut not working in specific app' - Fix: Ensure the app is active and that the menu title is correct.
•Problem: 'Shortcut conflicts with system shortcuts' - Workaround: Change the conflicting system shortcut in the Keyboard preferences.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your productivity with these advanced tips:

•Keyboard shortcut: Command + Space - Opens Spotlight for quick application access.
•Command line: 'defaults write com.apple.symbolichotkeys AppleSymbolicHotKeys -dict-add' - Use this command to add shortcuts via Terminal.
•Hidden feature: 'Text Replacement' - Access via System Preferences > Keyboard > Text to create shortcuts for frequently typed phrases.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing keyboard shortcuts effectively can drastically improve your workflow and efficiency on a Mac.