Mac tips for Windows switchers

Find out how to perform some common tasks on your new Mac.

Right-click

Click the right-hand corner of your Apple mouse or click with two fingers on your Apple trackpad. You can change this in Mouse settings and Trackpad settings

Scroll, swipe, click

Settings for scroll direction, swipe gestures and button assignments are also in Mouse and Trackpad settings.

Close and resize windows

Buttons for closing, minimising and maximising a window are in the upper-left corner of the window.

Change volume

Use the volume control in the menu bar or Control Centre, or use the volume keys on your Apple keyboard.

Change Mac settings

Looking for the Control Panel? Use System Settings (or System Preferences) instead.

Browse for files

Looking for Windows File Explorer? Find out about the Finder.

Find files

Use Spotlight to quickly find and open apps, documents and other files.

Open apps

You can also use Launchpad and the Dock to open your apps (programs).

Throw files away

Looking for the Recycle Bin? Use the Bin, which is in the Dock.

Rename files

Click the file once to select it, then press the Return key and enter a new name. Press Return when you've finished.

Preview files

Preview most files on your Mac using Quick Look. Click the file once to select it, then press Space bar.

Back up files

Time Machine keeps a copy of all your files and it remembers how your system looked on any given day.

Keyboard shortcuts

Many Mac keyboard combinations use the Command (⌘) key. Learn more keys and keyboard shortcuts

Apple Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad

Cut

Command-X

Copy

Command-C

Paste

Command-V

Undo

Command-Z

Print

Command-P

Close window

Command-W

Switch apps

Command-Tab

Quit app

Command-Q

Forward delete

Fn-Delete or  

Find files

Command-Space bar

Force quit app

Take screenshot

Learn more

  • For more information to help you get to know your Mac, use the Help menu in the Finder menu bar. 
  • What’s it called on my Mac? includes additional Windows and Mac terms.

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.

Published Date: