If you’re a Mac user who frequently toggles between different languages while working, you may find it useful to customize the shortcut keys for switching between languages. By default, macOS offers a set of predefined shortcut keys for this purpose, but they may not be the most convenient for everyone.
In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of changing the language shortcut keys on your Mac. Whether you need to switch between multiple languages for work or want to optimize your workflow, customizing these keys can greatly enhance your productivity.
Before we proceed, it’s important to note that the instructions provided in this guide apply to the latest versions of macOS, including macOS Catalina and macOS Big Sur. If you’re using an older version of macOS, the steps may vary slightly.
So, without further ado, let’s get started with our step-by-step guide to changing language shortcut keys on Mac!
Why Change Your Language Shortcut Keys?
Changing the language shortcut keys on your Mac can greatly improve your workflow and productivity. By customizing the shortcut keys to your own preferences, you can streamline your language switching process and make it more efficient. Here are a few reasons why you might want to change your language shortcut keys:
Personalization
By customizing the language shortcut keys, you can make them align with your own preferences and habits. This can make it easier and more intuitive for you to switch between languages, especially if you frequently switch between multiple languages throughout the day.
Efficiency
Changing the language shortcut keys to ones that are more convenient for you can save you time and effort. Instead of having to navigate through menus or use complex key combinations, you can simply press a few keys to switch to your desired language. This can be particularly beneficial if you often need to switch languages while working on tasks that require frequent language switching, such as translating or proofreading documents.
| Benefits of Changing Language Shortcut Keys |
|---|
| Personalization |
| Efficiency |
| Improved workflow |
| Reduced reliance on mouse or trackpad |
Improved Workflow
Customizing language shortcut keys can enhance your overall workflow by reducing interruptions and distractions. With quick and easy access to the language switching function, you can focus more on your work without having to pause and search for the language settings.
Reduced Reliance on Mouse or Trackpad
By assigning convenient shortcut keys to switch between languages, you can minimize your dependence on the mouse or trackpad. This can be particularly useful if you prefer using keyboard shortcuts or if you frequently work in environments where using a mouse or trackpad is impractical or inconvenient.
Overall, changing the language shortcut keys on your Mac offers numerous benefits, including personalization, efficiency, improved workflow, and reduced reliance on external input devices. By taking a few minutes to customize these shortcuts to your liking, you can optimize your language switching experience and make it more seamless and effortless.
Step 1: Accessing System Preferences
To change the language shortcut keys on your Mac, you need to access the System Preferences. Follow the steps below to access the System Preferences:
- Click on the Apple menu icon located in the top left corner of your screen.
- A dropdown menu will appear. Select “System Preferences” from the menu.
- The System Preferences window will open, displaying various options.
Option 1: System Preferences icon on the Dock
If you have the System Preferences icon already on your dock, you can click on it directly to open the preferences window.
Option 2: Launchpad
If you don’t have the System Preferences icon on your dock, you can access it through Launchpad. Follow these steps:
- Click on the Launchpad icon in the dock. It resembles a silver rocket ship.
- A window will open displaying all your applications, including System Preferences.
- Scroll through the applications until you find the System Preferences icon.
- Click on the System Preferences icon to open the preferences window.
Once you have accessed the System Preferences, you can proceed to the next step to change the language shortcut keys on your Mac.
Step 2: Selecting the Keyboard Section
Now that we have accessed the System Preferences on your Mac, the next step is to select the Keyboard section. This is where you can find all the settings related to your keyboard, including language shortcut keys.
To select the Keyboard section, follow these simple steps:
- Look for the Keyboard icon in the System Preferences window. It is represented by a black keyboard.
- Click on the Keyboard icon to open the keyboard settings.
Once you have selected the Keyboard section, you will be able to make changes to the language shortcut keys as per your preference. This allows you to customize your keyboard shortcuts to match your language or typing needs.
It’s important to note that the exact location of the Keyboard section may vary depending on the version of macOS you are using. However, it is usually located in the main System Preferences window and can be easily identified by the keyboard icon.
Next Steps
Now that you have selected the Keyboard section, you are ready to proceed to the next step, which is customizing the language shortcut keys. Continue reading the next section to learn how to customize the language shortcut keys on your Mac.
Step 3: Customizing Language Shortcut Keys
Once you have added and activated the language inputs you need in Step 2, you can proceed to customize the shortcut keys for switching between them. This can be useful if you prefer using different keystrokes than the defaults provided by macOS.
To customize language shortcut keys on your Mac, follow these steps:
- Go to the Apple menu and select “System Preferences”.
- In the System Preferences window, click on “Keyboard”.
- Click on the “Shortcuts” tab at the top of the window.
- In the left sidebar, select “Input Sources”.
- Scroll through the list of available input sources and locate the language input you want to customize.
- Click on the language input to expand its options.
- Check the box next to “Select the previous input source” or “Select next source in input menu” (depending on your preference).
- Click on the default shortcut keys (usually listed as “Command + Space”) and press the new keys you want to assign.
- Repeat steps 6 to 8 for any other language inputs you want to customize.
- Close the System Preferences window.
Once you have customized the language shortcut keys, you can start using them to switch between different input sources more conveniently. The new shortcut keys will override the default ones set by macOS in all text fields and applications.
Remember that it may take some time to get used to the new shortcut keys, so give yourself some practice and be patient.
That’s it! You have successfully customized your language shortcut keys on your Mac. Enjoy the improved productivity and efficiency in working with multiple languages.
What are language shortcut keys?
Language shortcut keys are keyboard combinations that allow you to quickly switch between different languages or input sources on your Mac. For example, if you frequently switch between English and Spanish, you can assign a specific keyboard shortcut to quickly switch between the two languages without having to manually change the input source each time.
Can I customize the language shortcut keys on my Mac?
Yes, you can customize the language shortcut keys on your Mac. By default, Mac has a set of predefined language shortcut keys, but you can easily change them to suit your needs. This can be helpful if you frequently switch between multiple languages or if you prefer using different keyboard shortcuts than the ones provided by default.
Is it possible to create new language shortcut keys on my Mac?
Yes, you can create new language shortcut keys on your Mac. When you go to the Keyboard preferences, you have the option to add a new shortcut by clicking on the “+” button. You can then choose the input source you want the shortcut to apply to and enter the desired keyboard combination. This allows you to create custom language shortcut keys that suit your specific preferences and needs.
