The Command key (⌘) is the heart of macOS navigation and productivity. Mastering macOS Command key combinations allows you to bypass complex menus and execute system-wide actions instantly. Whether you are managing files in Finder, editing text, or switching between applications, these default Mac shortcuts are designed to keep your workflow fluid and efficient.
This guide provides a comprehensive list of the most important Command shortcuts for 2026. From basic “Cut and Paste” operations to advanced system utilities and window management, these Cmd keybindings are essential for every Mac user, from beginners to power users.
Universal Editing and Basic Commands
These shortcuts work across almost every application on macOS, providing a consistent experience for text and file manipulation.
| Action | Keyboard Combination |
| Select All | ⌘ + A |
| Copy Selection | ⌘ + C |
| Cut Selection | ⌘ + X |
| Paste Selection | ⌘ + V |
| Undo Last Action | ⌘ + Z |
| Redo Action | ⌘ + Shift + Z |
| Find (Search) | ⌘ + F |
| Save Document | ⌘ + S |
| Print Document | ⌘ + P |
System and Application Management
Efficiently manage your open apps and system state using these core macOS shortcuts.
| Action | Keyboard Combination |
| Switch Applications | ⌘ + Tab |
| Switch Windows (Same App) | ⌘ + ` (Grave accent) |
| Hide Front App | ⌘ + H |
| Hide All Other Apps | ⌘ + Option + H |
| Minimize Window | ⌘ + M |
| Close Front Window | ⌘ + W |
| Quit Application | ⌘ + Q |
| Force Quit Menu | ⌘ + Option + Esc |
| Spotlight Search | ⌘ + Space bar |
Finder and File Management Shortcuts
Use these combinations to navigate your folders and manage files without touching the mouse.
| Action | Keyboard Combination |
| New Finder Window | ⌘ + N |
| New Folder | ⌘ + Shift + N |
| Open Selected Item | ⌘ + O (or ⌘ + Down Arrow) |
| Move to Trash | ⌘ + Delete |
| Empty Trash | ⌘ + Shift + Delete |
| Get Info (Inspector) | ⌘ + I |
| Eject Disk/Volume | ⌘ + E |
| Show/Hide Hidden Files | ⌘ + Shift + . (Period) |
| Go to Folder Menu | ⌘ + Shift + G |
Navigation and Screenshot Shortcuts
Control how you view your screen and capture information instantly.
| Action | Keyboard Combination |
| Capture Entire Screen | ⌘ + Shift + 3 |
| Capture Selection | ⌘ + Shift + 4 |
| Open Screenshot Toolbar | ⌘ + Shift + 5 |
| Zoom In | ⌘ + Plus (+) |
| Zoom Out | ⌘ + Minus (-) |
| Toggle Full Screen | ⌘ + Ctrl + F |
| Open App Settings | ⌘ + , (Comma) |
Power User Tip: The “Option” Modifier
Many Command key combinations have hidden “Power User” variants when you add the Option (⌥) key. For example, while ⌘ + V pastes an item, ⌘ + Option + V in Finder “moves” the item instead of copying it. Similarly, ⌘ + W closes one window, but ⌘ + Option + W closes every open window of that specific application simultaneously.
Understanding these macOS default controls is the first step toward a mouse-free experience. If you find a specific shortcut difficult to use, you can always create your own custom combinations in System Settings > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts.