21 Most Useful Time-Saving WordPress Shortcuts

Over the past 15 years of working with WordPress, I’ve learned a thing or two about maximizing productivity. One of the most crucial skills I’ve mastered is the use of keyboard shortcuts. These shortcuts can dramatically speed up your workflow, allowing you to focus on what matters most: creating compelling content and managing your website efficiently. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share 21 of the most useful time-saving WordPress shortcuts, covering the Classic Editor, Gutenberg Editor, and Comment Screen.

Why Use WordPress Keyboard Shortcuts?

WordPress, a popular website builder and blogging platform, comes with a powerful content editor. You can create a wide range of content, from text and images to audio and video. The editor’s interface is intuitive, but many beginners rely heavily on their mouse to navigate and format content. This can slow down your workflow significantly.

WordPress keyboard shortcuts empower you to work faster by keeping your hands on the keyboard. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can format text, navigate between blocks, and manage comments. Plus, many of these shortcuts are familiar from other programs like Microsoft Word, making them easy to learn and remember.

21 Most Useful WordPress Shortcuts

Here’s a breakdown of the 21 most useful WordPress shortcuts. Let’s get started!

Classic Editor Shortcuts

While the Classic Editor is no longer the default in WordPress, many users still use it. If you are one of them, here are some essential shortcuts:

• Ctrl + c = Copy (Command + c on Mac)
• Ctrl + v = Paste (Command + v on Mac)
• Ctrl + b = Bold (Command + b on Mac)
• Ctrl + i = Italic (Command + i on Mac)
• Ctrl + x = Cut (Command + x on Mac)
• Ctrl + a = Select All (Command + a on Mac)
• Ctrl + z = Undo (Command + z on Mac)
• Ctrl + s = Save Changes (Command + s on Mac)
• Ctrl + p = Print (Command + p on Mac)
• Ctrl + u = Underline (Command + u on Mac)
• Ctrl + k = Insert Link (Command + k on Mac)
• Ctrl + y = Redo (Command + y on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + [number] = Insert Heading (Option + Command + [number] on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + l = Align Left (Option + Command + l on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + c = Align Center (Option + Command + c on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + r = Align Right (Option + Command + r on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + u = Unordered List (Option + Command + u on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + o = Ordered List (Option + Command + o on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + a = Insert Link (Option + Command + a on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + s = Remove Link (Option + Command + s on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + q = Quote (Option + Command + q on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + m = Insert Image (Option + Command + m on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + t = Insert More Tag (Option + Command + t on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + p = Insert Page Break (Option + Command + p on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + w = Fullscreen Visual Editor (Option + Command + w on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + f = Fullscreen Text Editor (Option + Command + f on Mac)

Gutenberg Editor Shortcuts

The Gutenberg Editor, WordPress’s block-based editor, provides a more intuitive and flexible way to create content. It also offers a set of shortcuts designed for block-based editing:

• Enter = Add a new block
• / = Change the block type
• Ctrl + Shift + d = Duplicate block (Command + Shift + d on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + z = Remove block (Control + Option + z on Mac)
• Ctrl + Alt + t = Insert block before selected block (Command + Option + t on Mac)
• Ctrl + Alt + y = Insert block after selected block (Command + Option + y on Mac)
• Esc = Clear selection
• Ctrl + Shift + z = Redo (Command + Shift + z on Mac)
• Ctrl + Shift + , = Show/hide settings bar (Command + Shift + , on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + o = Open block navigation menu (Option + Control + o on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + n = Navigate to the next part of the editor (Option + Control + n on Mac)
• Alt + Shift + p = Navigate to the previous part of the editor (Option + Control + p on Mac)
• Alt + F10 = Navigate to the nearest toolbar (fn + Option + F10 on Mac)
• Ctrl + Shift + Alt + m = Switch between Visual and Code Editor (Command + Option + Shift + m on Mac)

Comment Screen Shortcuts

If you receive a lot of comments on your website, these shortcuts will make moderation a breeze. You’ll need to enable keyboard shortcuts in your profile settings to use these.

• J = Next comment
• K = Previous comment
• A = Approve comment
• U = Unapprove comment
• D = Delete comment
• R = Reply to comment
• Q = Quick edit comment
• Z = Restore comment from Trash or Undo Delete

To select multiple comments, press X to check the selected comment and use J or K to navigate. Once you’ve selected multiple comments, use these shortcuts for bulk actions:

• Shift + A = Approve checked comments
• Shift + D = Delete checked comments
• Shift + U = Unapprove selected comments
• Shift + T = Move selected comments to trash
• Shift + Z = Restore selected comments from trash

Mastering WordPress Shortcuts: Tips and Tricks

Now that you know the shortcuts, let’s explore some tips to help you integrate them into your workflow:

1. Start with the Basics

Don’t try to memorize all the shortcuts at once. Start with the ones you use most often, such as copy, paste, bold, italic, and undo. Gradually add more as you become comfortable. I suggest creating a cheat sheet of the most commonly used shortcuts and keeping it handy for quick reference.

2. Practice Regularly

Consistency is key to mastering shortcuts. Use them whenever you’re working in WordPress, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day. You’ll be surprised how quickly these actions become second nature.

3. Take Advantage of the “Show Keyboard Shortcuts” Feature

Both the Classic Editor and Gutenberg Editor have a built-in feature that lists all available shortcuts. You can access it by pressing Alt + Shift + h (Option + Control + h on Mac). It’s a great way to discover new shortcuts and refresh your memory.

4. Be Mindful of Context

Some shortcuts might work differently depending on the context. For example, the “/” shortcut for changing block type in Gutenberg only works when you’re in a new paragraph block. Be aware of the specific context to ensure you’re using the right shortcuts.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment

The best way to learn is to try things out. If you’re unsure about a shortcut, go ahead and give it a try. You might discover a new shortcut that saves you a lot of time.

Conclusion

By incorporating these time-saving WordPress shortcuts into your daily workflow, you’ll significantly increase your efficiency and productivity. You’ll be able to focus on creating high-quality content and building a thriving online presence. Remember, it takes time and practice to master these shortcuts, but the effort will pay off handsomely.

FAQs

What are the most essential WordPress shortcuts for beginners?

For beginners, focus on the basic shortcuts for copying, pasting, bolding, italicizing, undoing, and saving changes. These will make your content editing much smoother.

How do I enable keyboard shortcuts in the Comment Screen?

To enable keyboard shortcuts for comment moderation, go to Users » Your Profile and check the “Keyboard Shortcuts” checkbox. Save your changes, and you’ll have access to the comment screen shortcuts.

Are there any keyboard shortcuts for publishing or updating a post?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a dedicated shortcut for publishing or updating a post. However, you can use Ctrl + s (Command + s on Mac) to save a draft, and then you can manually click the “Publish” or “Update” button.

What are some other helpful WordPress tips and tricks?

Here are some more helpful tips and tricks:

• Use a caching plugin to improve your website’s speed.
• Install an SEO plugin to optimize your website for search engines.
• Back up your website regularly to protect your data.
• Choose a reliable web hosting provider.
• Learn about WordPress themes and plugins to customize your website.

Can I create my own custom keyboard shortcuts in WordPress?

While WordPress doesn’t allow you to directly create custom keyboard shortcuts, you can use plugins like TinyMCE Advanced to add additional buttons to the editor, which you can then assign to your own shortcuts using the “Shortcuts” tab in your profile settings.

Are the keyboard shortcuts the same for all WordPress versions?

The majority of the keyboard shortcuts are consistent across different WordPress versions. However, some shortcuts might change slightly based on the editor you’re using. Always refer to the “Show Keyboard Shortcuts” feature for the latest information.

How do I learn more about WordPress shortcuts?

This article provides a good starting point. You can find more detailed information about WordPress shortcuts on the official WordPress Codex or by searching online for resources specific to the editor you’re using.

Is it better to use the Classic Editor or Gutenberg Editor?

The choice between the Classic Editor and Gutenberg Editor is a matter of preference and workflow. The Gutenberg Editor offers more flexibility and creativity with its block-based design. However, if you’re used to the Classic Editor and feel comfortable with its interface, you can continue using it. Ultimately, the best editor is the one you find easiest to use and most productive with.

What are the benefits of using keyboard shortcuts in WordPress?

Keyboard shortcuts offer numerous benefits, including:

• Increased Speed and Efficiency: You’ll save time and effort by avoiding mouse clicks.
• Improved Focus: Keeping your hands on the keyboard can help you stay focused on your work, minimizing distractions.
• Reduced Strain: Regularly using the mouse can lead to hand and wrist strain. Keyboard shortcuts can help reduce this strain.
• Enhanced Productivity: By streamlining your workflow, you’ll be able to accomplish more in less time.

What are some good resources for learning more about tech news?

If you’re interested in learning more about tech news, feel free to visit my website: www.naveedahmed.me.

Do you have any tips for remembering WordPress shortcuts?

Here are a few tips for remembering WordPress shortcuts:

• Create a cheat sheet: Print out a list of the shortcuts you use most often.
• Use flashcards: Write the shortcut on one side and the action on the other.
• Practice regularly: The more you use the shortcuts, the easier they will become to remember.
• Use mnemonics: Create memorable associations to help you recall shortcuts. For example, “Ctrl + b for bold” is an easy mnemonic to remember.

Remember, everyone learns at their own pace. Don’t get discouraged if it takes time to master these shortcuts. Keep practicing, and you’ll be a WordPress keyboard shortcut pro in no time!