How to Use Raycast: The Best Productivity App for Mac

If you could only download one productivity app to help you get more done, it would be Raycast. This Spotlight alternative is a command center for your Mac, transforming the way you work with lightning-fast search, customizable keyboard shortcuts for everything, and a host of other powerful features.

1. 10 Apps to Install on Your New Mac

4. Block distracting apps with Raycast Focus

One of the most effective ways to increase productivity is not to do more in less time, but to make the most of the time you have by focusing on what really matters. Distraction is one of the biggest challenges you have to overcome to achieve this. Whether it's mindlessly scrolling through social media or getting sidetracked by low-priority tasks, staying focused can feel like an uphill battle.

 

Use Raycast Focus to block distracting apps and websites on your Mac, creating a distraction-free environment to tackle the work that matters most.

 

Here's how to use Raycast Focus:

1. Visit Raycast's official website to download and install it on your Mac.
2. Open Raycast with the default shortcut Option + Space and type Start Focus .
3. Set your goal, for example, write a blog post, choose the duration, and add the apps or websites you want to block.
4. Press Enter and a small timer will appear, signaling the start of the focus session.

While the session is active, any attempt to open the blocked app or website will trigger a Raycast notification, gently nudging you back on track. It's a simple yet effective way to stay focused and make the most of your time.

3. Speed ​​up your workflow with system-wide shortcuts

Raycast's keyboard-first approach makes navigating your Mac faster, eliminating the need to constantly reach for the mouse. But one of the reasons Raycast is better than Spotlight is that you can use it to create system-wide shortcuts that let you control everything from basic system functions like adjusting the volume to instantly launching your favorite apps.

 

Here's how to set up keyboard shortcuts using Raycast:

1. Open Raycast, type Extensions and press Enter.
2. Select and enable the System extension by clicking the box next to it.
3. Find a relevant command (e.g. Empty Trash or Toggle Bluetooth ) and note down the keyboard shortcut for that command.

You can also create shortcuts for built-in and third-party apps. Just search for the app in the same menu and assign a shortcut. For example, use Option + R to open Reminders instantly.

Note : When setting up new shortcuts, make sure they don't conflict with existing shortcuts to avoid any issues.

In addition to setting up keyboard shortcuts, you can use Raycast to create Quicklinks that launch anything faster — whether it's a specific folder on your Mac, a web page, or even a Spotify playlist.

 

Here's how to create a Quicklink using Raycast:

1. Open Raycast and search for Create Quicklink .
2. Enter the name, link, and app you want to use to open it, then press Command + Enter to save.
3. Whenever you want to open that app, just launch Raycast and enter the name.

With shortcuts and Quicklinks, Raycast can become your command center, giving you quick access to all your frequently used apps, folders, and websites.

2. Boost productivity with Raycast extensions

Raycast is an incredibly versatile app because it allows you to connect your favorite tools in one place. This versatility is one of the reasons why many people can't start a new Mac without installing apps like Raycast because it transforms the way you work by integrating with the apps you use every day.

To get started, open Raycast and search for the Store . Here you'll find a large library of community-built extensions for popular tools like Asana, Trello , Slack , Arc , and many more. These extensions let you do things faster and more efficiently without ever leaving Raycast.

 

For example, use the Asana extension to quickly create, view, and manage tasks directly from Raycast. Instead of switching contexts, you can stay focused and productive, all in a single interface.

1. Add favorite apps to the menu bar

Having quick access to frequently used apps in the menu bar is a game changer for productivity. It improves note-taking habits by getting tasks and ideas out into a trusted system before they slip away—whether it's taking notes or setting reminders. With Raycast, you can add apps like Reminders, Notes, and Spotify to your menu bar for instant access.

Here's how to add the Reminders app to the menu bar:

1. Open Raycast and search for Store.
2. Search for Apple Reminders and install the extension.
3. Go to the Extensions page and search for Apple Reminders.
4. Select Menu Bar Reminder s and click Activate on the right side of the page.

Once enabled, you'll find Reminders in your menu bar, ready for quick access. This simple yet powerful feature keeps your most important tools just a click away, helping you stay organized.

Tip : Follow the same process to add other supported apps like Notes, Spotify, etc. to your menu bar.

Raycast is more than just a Spotlight replacement. It's a customizable productivity tool that adapts to your workflow, helping you work smarter and faster. It's simply a must-have app for anyone looking to increase productivity on their Mac.