Mac computers have an ALT key similar to the one on Windows keyboardsHowever, it is not as visible as the Microsoft one, so many users do not know where it is. In addition, they are unaware of how it works and the value it adds to the device. Let's learn more details about this key and how to use it.
Where is the ALT key on a Mac and what is it for?
Mac has its ALT key and few users know where it is and the enormous potential it offers. It is an excellent option for shortcuts and significantly improves productivity when using this operating system.
The reason why users don't know where it is is that it is not called ALT on Mac, instead it is called Option.It is usually located at the bottom of the keyboard, next to the space bar, and has this name, although it may have just the symbol or the word "ALT" in small letters.
It all depends on the model of the equipment, however it is always there and its potential is high if we know how to use it. Among them, power Unlock Mac Keyboard Shortcuts and Features, we list some of them below:
- Option + Command Key + Esc: Opens the window for force quit apps.
- Option + Left Arrow: Moves the cursor to the beginning of the word to a text editing window.
- Option + Right Arrow: Moves the cursor to the end of the word and opens a text editing window.
- Option + Shift + Command + V: Used to paste and combine styles.
- Option + Click: Downloads files from browsers or displays additional application options.
- Option + Volume Up/Down: Opens Sound preferences.
- Option + Display Brightness Up/Down: Opens Displays preferences.
- Option + Command + I: Displays a watch window in Finder, Mail, Photos, and other platforms.
- Option + Command + N: Create a new Smart Folder in a new Finder window.
- Option + Command + T: Show and hide the toolbar in Finder, Mail, and other apps.
- Option + Command + D: Show and hide the Dock.
- Option + Command + F: Moves the cursor to the search control.
- Option + Command + S: Activate the “save as” option.
- Option + Command + M: Minimize all windows of the front application.
- Option + Delete: Deletes words to the left of the cursor in a text editing window.
- Option + Fn Key + F11/F12: Adjust the volume.
- Option + Shift + K: Type Apple logo.
How to Create Special Characters Using the ALT Key on Mac
The Mac ALT key, or better known as Option, is also used to create special characters.They are useful when writing a text that requires a special symbol. Some of the most commonly used are:
- Alt + G: ©
- Alt + 2: ™
- Alt + R: ®
- Alt + E, then E: é
- Alt + ` , then A: à
- Alt + N, then N: ñ
- Alt + I, then I: î
- Alt + 4: ¢
- Alt + =: ≠
- Alt + 8: •
These are some of the special characters that can be generated from Mac using the ALT key. There are many more and it is a matter of trying out other keys and their possible combinations. Share this information so others know how to detect Option on Mac keyboard.