Essential Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows, Mac, and Linux

Keyboard shortcuts are the unsung heroes of productivity, helping users streamline their workflow, save time, and reduce repetitive mouse movements. Whether you’re working on Windows, Mac, or Linux, mastering the right shortcuts can transform the way you interact with your computer. This guide brings together the most useful keyboard shortcuts for all three major operating systems, highlights their differences, and offers tips for making the most of these powerful combinations.

Why Keyboard Shortcuts Matter

Using keyboard shortcuts isn’t just about being fast — it’s about working smarter. Shortcuts provide instant access to common actions like copying, pasting, switching between apps, or managing files, often with just a quick combination of keys. For power users, developers, writers, and anyone who spends significant time on a computer, knowing these shortcuts can mean fewer interruptions and a smoother workflow.

Key Differences Between Windows, Mac, and Linux Keyboards

While many shortcuts are conceptually similar across platforms, the specific keys used can differ. The biggest distinction lies in the modifier keys:

• Windows: Uses Ctrl, Alt, and the Windows key for shortcuts.
• Mac: Replaces Ctrl (for most shortcuts) with the Command (⌘) key. Also uses Option (⌥) and Control (⌃).
• Linux: Generally follows the Windows convention, using Ctrl and Alt, but can be customized and varies with desktop environments.1

For example, copying text is Ctrl + C on Windows and Linux, but Cmd + C on Mac.1

Must-Know Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows

Here are some of the most widely used keyboard shortcuts for Windows:

• Ctrl + C – Copy
• Ctrl + X – Cut
• Ctrl + V – Paste
• Ctrl + Z – Undo
• Ctrl + Y – Redo
• Ctrl + A – Select All
• Ctrl + S – Save
• Alt + Tab – Switch between open applications
• Windows key + D – Show/hide desktop
• Windows key + L – Lock PC
• Alt + F4 – Close current window/application
• Windows key – Open Start menu

Must-Know Keyboard Shortcuts for Mac

Mac users rely heavily on the Command (⌘) key for shortcuts. Here are the essentials:2

• Cmd + C – Copy
• Cmd + X – Cut
• Cmd + V – Paste
• Cmd + Z – Undo
• Cmd + Y – Redo
• Cmd + A – Select All
• Cmd + F – Find
• Cmd + S – Save
• Cmd + N – New file/window
• Cmd + Tab – Switch between open applications
• Cmd + Space – Open Spotlight search
• Cmd + Option + Esc – Force quit an application
• Cmd + P – Print

Must-Know Keyboard Shortcuts for Linux

Linux shortcuts follow the Windows style, but there are some Linux-specific and terminal-focused shortcuts too:2

• Ctrl + C – Copy (GUI), Terminate process (Terminal)
• Ctrl + X – Cut (GUI)
• Ctrl + V – Paste (GUI)
• Ctrl + Z – Undo (GUI), Suspend process (Terminal)
• Ctrl + D – Logout/exit terminal
• Ctrl + S – Pause terminal output
• Ctrl + Q – Resume terminal output
• Ctrl + N – New window (file manager/terminal)
• Ctrl + Shift + N – New folder
• F2 – Rename file/folder
• Alt + Tab – Switch between open applications

Comparing Shortcuts Across Platforms

Tips for Mastering Keyboard Shortcuts

• Start with the basics: Learn universal shortcuts like copy, paste, undo, and switch apps — they work almost everywhere.
• Gradually add new shortcuts: Once you’re comfortable, try learning shortcuts for your favorite apps or for system functions.
• Customize when possible