Mac: Launch programs using a keyboard shortcut

You can easily launch Mac programs using keyboard shortcuts. We'll tell you how and which shortcuts are already included in MacOS.

Create your own shortcuts on Mac OS

If you own a Mac, you can use it even more easily and effectively using keyboard shortcuts. You can assign a shortcut to each program:

1. Switch to the system settings and click on the "Keyboard & Mouse" setting.
2. Switch to the "Keyboard shortcuts" tab.
3. To create a new abbreviation, click on the "+".
4. You can then select the desired tool in the "Program" field.
5. In "Menu" enter the exact wording of the menu command, such as "Layout properties ...".
6. In the lower field "Keyboard shortcut" insert your desired key combination. Confirm the changes with "Add".

Mac: quick access via ready-made keyboard shortcuts

MacOS X already includes some standard shortcuts for important folders and programs:

• The key combination "CMD + Shift + G" opens the "Go to folder" dialog.
• Open the AirDrop folder with "CMD + Shift + R".
• "CMD + Shift + H" opens the user directory.
• With "CMD + Shift + C" you can open the computer directory.
• To get quick access to your document folder, use the combination "CMD + Shift + O".
• You can access your utilities folder with "CMD + Shift + U".
• If you want to access your network folder, use "CMD + Shift + K".
• You can view your currently installed programs in the Programs folder. You start this with "CMD + Shift + A".
• Go back to the desk with "CMD + Shift + D".
• To open a dialog window, use "CMD + Shift + G".
• You can access the system settings for your monitor with "Alt + F1".
• You can make sound settings with "Alt + F10".

These shortcuts work with Apple MacOS X. In another practical tip, we will show you how to rename several files on your Mac at the same time.