The Finder is your window into the Mac file system. The system works well with a mouse or trackpad, but you can also control it directly from the keyboard. The keyboard has the advantage of allowing you to navigate through the Finder and interact with devices, files, and folders, all without taking your fingers off the keys.

Keyboard Shortcuts for the Mac Finder

Keyboard shortcuts for the Finder can streamline how you work and play with your Mac. However, keyboard shortcuts are a combination of two or more keys that, when pressed at the same time, perform a specific function, such as pressing the Command key and the W key to close the frontmost Finder window. It’s unlikely you’ll be able to memorize all the shortcuts.

These keyboard shortcuts apply to all versions of macOS and most OS X versions with only a few exceptions.

Even if you only learn the shortcuts for the actions you often perform, you’ll increase your productivity and save time. If you long to be a shortcut ninja, print these charts and start studying.

The following commands will help you use the Finder, including opening files, creating new windows, and getting information on items.

Finder Viewing Options

The shortcuts in this table affect the Finder appearance. You can also use them to get around folders and subfolders and change the view.

Quick Ways to Navigate in the Finder

Use these keyboard commands to navigate around windows, special locations, and other areas in the Finder.

Cover Flow was removed from the Mac Finder beginning with macOS Mojave (10.14) and replaced with Gallery View.

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Disadvantage of Using Keyboard Shortcuts With the Finder

The disadvantage of using keyboard shortcuts with the Finder is that remembering all the Finder keyboard shortcuts is quite an undertaking, especially for shortcuts that you rarely use. Instead, it’s best to pick out a few that you’ll use all the time. Some commonly used shortcuts to add to your arsenal might include the various Finder viewing options.

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