Fewer mouse clicks means faster work
If there's a feature you reach for through a menu every single time, assigning it your own keyboard shortcut can meaningfully speed up repetitive tasks over time.
Watch out for conflicts with existing shortcuts
Most apps warn you if the key combination you're trying to assign is already in use elsewhere, so you'll need to pick a different combination that isn't taken. It's worth choosing something you're unlikely to hit by accident during normal typing, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my new shortcut conflicts with one already in use?
Most apps show a warning when you try to assign a combination that's already taken, so you'll need to choose a different one that isn't in conflict.
Can I reset a shortcut back to its default?
Yes -- most custom shortcut menus include a 'Reset to default' option that restores the original setting at any time.