How to use Apple's Keyboard Shortcuts on an iPad

Keyboard shortcuts are often relied on for quicker access to other features in apps, and even opening other apps on the fly on certain computers. The iPad also has its own unique keyboard shortcuts once paired with a keyboard. 

Once these are engrained in the memory, using the shortcuts can cut down on time to find useful features on iPadOS. In many workplaces, time is a valuable resource which could be saved through shortcuts. 

While most computer users know the layout of PC’s keyboard, Apple’s own keyboard style has minor differences and still has similar layout to common keyboards. However, some keyboard shortcuts could be unique for the Apple keyboard.

Here’s how you can use the keyboard shortcuts on the iPad. 

How To Use Keyboard Shortcuts on iPad 

To start using keyboard shortcuts, holding down the Command button on the Apple keyboard will show some of the available shortcuts for the iPad. On regular keyboards, the Command button works like a CTRL button. 

Similar to regular keyboards, adding another key with the Command button brings up a feature of the iPad quite fast. Here are some of the iPad shortcuts: 

1. Command + H = Go to Home screen shortcut 
2. Command + Space bar = Show or hide Search field 
3. Command + Tab = Switch to the recently used apps on the iPad 
4. Command + Shift + 3 = Screenshot shortcut 
5. Command + Shift + 4 = Take a screenshot and immediately place it on the Markup image editor on the iPad 
6. Command + Option + D = Show or Hide the Dock 

Knowing these shortcuts could save time if one remembers when to use them. If it’s too difficult, keeping sticky notes of iPad keyboard shortcuts could also help. 

More Shortcuts 

Apple offers even more keyboard shortcuts than what’s available at the moment. For more shortcuts, here’s a guide to activate the others for your iPad: 

1. Tap on the Settings app, and choose Accessibility. 
2. Choose Keyboards. 
3. Select Full Access Keyboards and set it to On. 
4. Press the Commands key. 
5. You’ll now see a list of extra keyboard shortcuts that you can keep. 

1. Choose a shortcut and add a custom keyboard shortcut command for it. 

Once you've chosen the ones you think will help the most, make sure to keep track of the keyboard shortcuts you’ve made. While the shortcuts are useful, they can be pesky and get in the way if accidentally activated. 

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