Useful Shortcuts for OS X

This guide covers useful shortcuts for os x with practical context and easy-to-follow details. Use it to understand the subject and apply the information confidently.

Mac users can turn off or restart quickly using shortcut keys.

Power Menu

Unlike the portable Mac series (MacBook Pro, MacBook Air), the power key of desktop Macs (iMac, Mac Mini) is designed on the case. Instead of reaching behind the device to find this key, users can quickly activate the Power Menu with the Control - Eject Key combination right on the keyboard. After a window appears, you can press Enter To turn off the computer quickly or there are three other options: reboot, Sleep, and turn off this window.

Soft Shutdown

Soft Shutdown is a quick way to turn off the computer but all data is still saved safely. To perform Soft Shutdown use Control - Option - Command - Eject.

Hard Reset

If the Mac system crashes or you cannot use the current tasks or want to completely exit the failed app, you can perform Hard Reset by holding down both Option And Command Keys and pressing the power button to restart the machine.

Hard Shutdown

Instead of Hard Reset, users can choose Hard Shutdown when the Mac hangs. To perform Hard Shutdown, hold down the power button for about 5-10 seconds. Both Hard Reset and Hard Shutdown should only be used as the last option when other methods are not lost.

Sleep

Instead of turning off or restarting the computer, you can use the Sleep feature. When in Sleep mode, the Mac is always ready to continue working and consume less energy. To switch to Sleep mode, simply fold the phone down (for MacBook lines) or press Command - Option - Eject combination.

How to Turn Off the Screen

With Shift - Control - Eject combination, You can turn off the screen without turning off the system. In this mode, users only need to press any key and the login screen appears.

In addition, if you do not want to use the shortcut, users can select the shutdown mode at the home screen by clicking The Apple logo ().