Cheat Sheets: ChatGPT Keyboard Shortcuts

Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on

Discover how to utilize ChatGPT keyboard shortcuts across devices and platforms. Learn what shortcuts are available, where they differ between operating systems, and how to use keyboard shortcuts to improve your workflow.

[Featured Image]: A person working on a laptop uses ChatGPT keyboard shortcuts to navigate the app.

Key Takeaways

ChatGPT keyboard shortcuts let you navigate faster and perform common keyboard actions without using the mouse.

  • Keyboard shortcuts can help you better control prompt formatting and organize longer or more complex inputs. 

  • Three types of keyboard shortcuts can enhance your efficiency: ChatGPT-specific shortcuts, browser shortcuts, and operating system (OS) level shortcuts.

  • You can use keyboard shortcuts to navigate conversations and move between chats more easily.

Learn which shortcuts can save you time and improve how you work in ChatGPT. Then build your generative AI skills by enrolling in the Generative AI Fundamentals Specialization.

What are ChatGPT keyboard shortcuts?

Keyboard shortcuts let you work in ChatGPT using key combinations instead of on-screen controls. Instead of clicking around, you can write, edit, and navigate conversations directly from the keyboard.

You may be familiar with some useful keyboard shortcuts already, such as hitting the Return or Enter keys to send a message, which is a common keyboard shortcut implemented by messenger apps like Facebook Messenger. Whether you are just getting started with ChatGPT or you already consider yourself a power user, keyboard shortcuts allow for a more seamless experience. These shortcuts are helpful to know and use, even outside of ChatGPT.

What is the keyboard shortcut for send in ChatGPT?

Hitting Enter on your Windows keyboard, or Return on your Mac, will send your message. This is a common keyboard shortcut you likely already use in other applications.

Keyboard shortcuts in ChatGPT you can use

ChatGPT includes built-in keyboard shortcuts that let you interact with conversations directly from the keyboard. For example, pressing Enter sends a message, while Shift + Enter creates a new line without sending. This can be useful when you're writing longer prompts or lists in ChatGPT.

To see which keyboard shortcuts are available, you can open ChatGPT's built-in shortcuts menu at any time by pressing Ctrl + / on Windows or Cmd + / on Mac.

Read more: ChatGPT for Students: Ways to Use the GenAI Tool to Enhance Your Learning

What keyboard shortcuts can you use in ChatGPT?

When using ChatGPT in a web browser, keyboard shortcuts can come from three different sources: ChatGPT-specific shortcuts, browser shortcuts, and operating system (OS) level shortcuts. ChatGPT-specific shortcuts are built directly into the app or website to help you interact with the interface. Browser shortcuts support tab management and web navigation. OS-level shortcuts help you manage windows, switch apps, and control your desktop. Where indicated, if you are using a Windows computer, use the Control key. On a Mac, use the Command key.

ChatGPT-specific shortcuts

ChatGPT-specific shortcuts within the app help you navigate and manage interactions while using it in a web browser. These shortcuts focus on actions such as opening or switching between chats, toggling interface elements, and moving through messages within the ChatGPT interface. 

  • Ctrl or Cmd + K: Open search or jump to another chat

  • Ctrl or Cmd + Shift + O: Open a new chat

  • Ctrl or Cmd + Shift + S: Toggle sidebar

Which browser shortcuts work in ChatGPT?

These browser shortcuts can help you navigate through tabs, reopen closed chats, and search quickly. They are standard browser shortcuts that also work outside of ChatGPT.

Tab management

  • Ctrl or Cmd + T: Open a new browser tab

  • Ctrl or Cmd + W: Close current browser tab

  • Ctrl or Cmd + Shift + T: Reopen the last closed browser tab

Navigation and search

  • Ctrl or Cmd + L: Highlight the address bar, and use the search bar quickly

  • Ctrl or Cmd + F: Find text on the page

Editing

  • Ctrl or Cmd + C: Copy

  • Ctrl or Cmd + V: Paste

  • Ctrl or Cmd + A: Select all 

What operating system shortcuts help when using ChatGPT?

OS-level keyboard shortcuts can also be helpful while using ChatGPT in a browser or desktop app. These OS-level keyboard shortcuts support actions such as switching between apps, arranging windows, and managing active processes.

Windows

  • Alt + Tab: Switch apps

  • Win + Left or Right Arrow: Snap window to side

  • Win + D: Show desktop

  • Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open Task Manager

macOS

  • Cmd + Tab: Switch to the second most recently used app of open apps

  • Cmd + H: Hide current app

  • Cmd + M: Minimize window

  • Option + Command + Esc: Force quit apps

Quick-reference guide to navigate with keyboard shortcuts in ChatGPT 

FieldCertification ExamplesTypical RolesTime to PrepareRemote Potential
Project ManagementPMP, CAPM, CSMProject Manager1–6 monthsHigh
IT SupportCompTIA A+, CCNAIT Support Specialist1–4 monthsHigh
Digital MarketingMeta, Digital Marketing ProSocial Media Specialist1–3 monthsHigh
Data AnalyticsCompTIA Data+, Power BIData Analyst2–6 monthsHigh
BookkeepingNACPB, CBBookkeeper1–3 monthsModerate–High
Medical CodingCPC, CBCSMedical Coder3–6 monthsModerate

What is the shortcut for ChatGPT on a PC?

If you have ChatGPT downloaded to your desktop, you can press Alt + Space on Windows or Option + Space on Mac to open the application. Shortcut availability can vary depending on your operating system, app version, and system settings, so check your device or accessibility preferences to confirm what you can use.

How can you remember and use keyboard shortcuts more efficiently?

While it may take some time at first, adding shortcuts to your workflow can help improve speed and reduce interruptions, making interactions with ChatGPT feel more natural and efficient. Try adding just one or two new shortcuts at a time until they become familiar. Once you have mastered the basics, add the shortcuts that will be most helpful to you. The more you use the shortcuts in practice, the more familiar and automatic they will likely become.

Build your expertise in AI tools

Keep building your skills in ChatGPT and artificial intelligence, and join the conversation by subscribing to our LinkedIn newsletter, Career Chat. Also, explore these free resources to learn more about how to make ChatGPT and other AI resources work for you:

Whether you want to develop a new skill, get comfortable with an in-demand technology, or advance your abilities, keep growing with a Coursera Plus subscription. You’ll get access to over 10,000 flexible courses.

Updated on
Written by:

Editorial Team

Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.