Custom Shortcuts

Customize keyboard shortcuts to match your workflow

Opening Keybindings Settings

  1. Open Settings (Cmd+,)
  2. Navigate to Keybindings
  3. Browse or search available commands

Changing a Shortcut

  1. Find the command you want to modify
  2. Click the current shortcut or the empty field
  3. Press your desired key combination
  4. The shortcut is saved immediately

Shortcut Format

Shortcuts use a modifier + key format:

ModifierSymbolKey
CommandCmd
OptionOption
ControlCtrl
ShiftShift

Conflict Resolution

If your new shortcut conflicts with an existing one:

  1. The conflict is highlighted
  2. You can either:
    • Choose a different shortcut
    • Override the existing binding
    • Remove the conflicting shortcut first

Removing a Shortcut

  1. Find the command with the shortcut
  2. Click the shortcut
  3. Press Delete or Backspace
  4. The shortcut is removed

Resetting to Default

  1. Find the command
  2. Right-click or click the reset button
  3. Select Reset to Default

Common Customizations

Vim-like Navigation

CommandSuggested Shortcut
Move line upCtrl+K
Move line downCtrl+J

Emacs-like

CommandSuggested Shortcut
Beginning of lineCtrl+A
End of lineCtrl+E

VS Code-like

Many shortcuts already match VS Code defaults. Add these for consistency:

CommandSuggested Shortcut
Toggle sidebarCmd+B
Toggle terminalCtrl+`

Tips

Use Ergonomic Combinations

  • Keep frequently used shortcuts easy to reach
  • Avoid awkward modifier combinations
  • Consider your keyboard layout

Group Related Commands

  • Use the same modifier for related actions
  • Example: All git commands with Cmd+Shift+G+letter

Document Your Changes

Keep a note of custom shortcuts for reference, especially if you use multiple machines.

Exporting/Importing

Currently, shortcuts are stored per installation. To transfer:

  1. Export your settings from one machine
  2. Import on the target machine

This syncs all preferences including keybindings.

Troubleshooting

Shortcut Not Working

  1. Check for conflicts in Keybindings settings
  2. Verify the shortcut is saved
  3. Some shortcuts may be reserved by macOS

macOS System Shortcuts

Some key combinations are reserved by macOS:

  • Cmd+Space (Spotlight)
  • Cmd+Tab (App Switcher)
  • Ctrl+Arrow (Spaces)

Disable these in System Settings > Keyboard > Shortcuts if needed.