Conquer Your Workflow: Set Up Custom Keyboard Shortcuts in Ubuntu

Ever feel like you’re spending more time clicking menus than getting things done? If you use Ubuntu, there’s a hidden power waiting to be unleashed: custom keyboard shortcuts! These shortcuts let you launch your favourite applications with a quick keystroke, streamlining your workflow and making you a productivity ninja.

There are two main ways to set up keyboard shortcuts in Ubuntu:

1. Leverage the Dock:

The Dock, that handy bar on the left side of your screen, can be a shortcut haven. Ubuntu lets you assign shortcuts (Super key + number key) to applications located there. Here’s how:

• Press the Super key (usually the Windows key) and hold it.
• While holding Super, press a number key (1–9).
• The corresponding application on your Dock will launch!

2. Craft Custom Shortcuts (The Powerhouse Option):

This method is perfect for applications that aren’t on the Dock or for creating shortcuts tailored to your preferences. Here’s how to unlock this power:

1. Open System Settings.
2. Click on Keyboard.
3. In the Keyboard Shortcuts section, select View and Customize Shortcuts.
4. Select Custom Shortcuts from the list on the left.
5. Click the + button to add a new shortcut.
6. In the Name field, give your shortcut a descriptive title (e.g., “Open Firefox”).
7. In the Command field, enter the magic code that launches your application. You can find this code by:

• Opening the application and checking its details in System Monitor.
• Typing the application name in the terminal and seeing if it launches.

Click on the area next to Shortcut and press the desired key combination for your shortcut (e.g., Ctrl + Alt + F).

• Tip: The Super key is a common choice, but feel free to experiment with Ctrl, Alt, or Shift for combinations that work for you.
• Important: Avoid using shortcuts already assigned to other system functions to prevent conflicts.

Click Add to save your custom shortcut.

Bonus Tips:

• Master the art of combining modifier keys (Ctrl, Alt, Shift) with other keys to create a vast library of shortcuts.
• Keep your shortcuts intuitive and easy to remember.

With these steps, you’ll be a custom shortcut pro in no time! Launch applications with a flick of your fingers and conquer your Ubuntu workflow like a seasoned pro.