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We’re always looking for new ways to speed up everyday tasks in Ubuntu.
When Keyboards Ruled the Earth
Unix—the spiritual predecessor of Linux—predates graphical user interfaces.
The keyboard was the only game in town, so it was typing all the way.
No surprise then, that functionality was soon introduced for the benefit of the computer operators of yesteryear.
Features such asthe
command andaliasesstarted to appear in Unix shells.
Their purpose was to increase productivity by reducing repetition and removing the need to remember obscure sequences of commands.
Keyboard shortcuts boost efficiency, too.
These are neat combinations of keystrokes that trigger some useful action for us.
They don’t punch in text, they cause something to happen.
We tested this keyboard shortcuts onUbuntu 19.04 Disco Dingo.
Super What?
TheSuperkey is the one between theCtrlandAltkeys toward the bottom left corner of the keyboard.
We’ll be making good use of the Super key.
If you’re still doing all these things the long mouse-driven way, stop!
Common tool Keyboard Shortcuts
Many applications follow certain conventions with keyboard shortcuts.
These should work in most modern applications.
This is near the bottom of the sidebar.
press the “Keyboard” menu entry.
In this example, we’re going to launch Nautilus.
We need to punch in the command that will launch Nautilus, which is "
“.
In our example, we will pressSuper+E.
When all fields are completed, hit the green “Add” button.
This will secure your shortcut and add it to the list of existing shortcuts.
Your new shortcut will be listed in that section.
And now, pressingSuper+Ewill launch Nautilus.
terminate the window, and test out your shortcut!
It’ll become second nature in no time.
Custom shortcuts aren’t just for opening your favorite programs quickly.
The possibilities are endless.
Using Your Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can leave you in a quandary.
When you start using them, they slow you down!
Don’t be disheartened, persevere.
There’s no instant gratification here.
But when you obtain them locked into your muscle memory, you’re up and running.
Pick a handful and start to use those.
When they become second nature, add a few more.
You’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.
It’s likelearning the Linux terminal.
Related:37 Important Linux Commands You Should Know
