Shortcuts lets you combine actions into one reusable automation. A shortcut can resize images, open files, send messages, run scripts, organize files, or trigger other Mac and Apple app actions with one click.
Shortcuts is preinstalled on recent macOS versions.
Does This Affect You?
Use Shortcuts when a repeated task has several predictable steps and you want a faster way to run them.
Build and Run a Shortcut
- Open Shortcuts.
- Click the plus button or choose File > New Shortcut.
- Search the action library for an action such as Resize Image.
- Double-click the action to add it.
- Configure the action options, such as a target image width.
- Rename the shortcut clearly.
- Click the Play button to test it.
- Save it in your shortcuts library.
Run Shortcuts Faster
- Open System Settings > Control Center and enable Shortcuts in the menu bar if available.
- Click the Shortcuts menu bar icon and choose a shortcut.
- For a specific shortcut, open its info panel and enable Pin in Menu Bar.
- Use Add Keyboard Shortcut in the shortcut info panel to assign a key combination.
Shortcuts Extras
Automations
Use the Automation tab to run shortcuts from triggers such as time of day, opening an app, or joining a Wi-Fi network. Some automations can run without asking each time.
Gallery
The Gallery contains ready-made Apple shortcuts by category. Add one to your library and edit it for your workflow.
iCloud Sync
Shortcuts can sync across Mac, iPhone, and iPad signed in with the same Apple Account and iCloud enabled for Shortcuts.
Finder Quick Actions
Open a shortcut’s info panel, enable Use as Quick Action, and choose Finder or other locations so it appears from right-click menus.
Sources
- Apple Support: Get started with Shortcuts on Mac
- Apple Support: Run a shortcut from the menu bar on Mac
- Apple Support: Automate tasks using Shortcuts on Mac