Using the Mac Menu Bar with the Keyboard

Introduction

• Video by Gary from mac.com
• Focus on using the keyboard instead of mouse/trackpad
• Available on MacOS with over 2,000 supporters

Keyboard Shortcuts

• Built-in Shortcuts: Example of bolding text with Command + B
  • Check the menu bar for shortcuts
• Custom Shortcuts: Create if not available
  • Go to System Settings > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts
  • Navigate to App Shortcuts and click the '+' button
  • Choose the application and enter the exact menu item title
  • Assign a keyboard shortcut (e.g., Command + Option + Shift + S for Strike Through)
  • Ensure correct spelling for it to work

Accessing the Menu Bar

• Activate Menu Bar: Control + F2 (may require FN/Globe key)
  • Navigate using arrow keys
  • Open a menu with Return, Space, or Down Arrow
  • Submenus accessed with Right Arrow

Customizing Key Settings

• Go to System Settings > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts > Keyboard
  • Customize the key command for 'Move Focus to the Menu Bar'
  • Function keys may need FN/Globe key if settings are off

Alternative Methods

• Help Menu Shortcut: Command + Shift + Question Mark
  • Opens Help Menu instead of Apple Menu
  • More reliable than Control + F2
  • Use Left Arrow to navigate
  • Search for menu items directly
  • Type menu item name and hit Return to activate

Additional Tips

• Quick Access to Menu Items: Hit the starting letter (e.g., 'D' for Dashed List)
• Exit Menu: Use Escape key
• Learn Menu Item Locations: Use search function in Help Menu
• Customizing Help Menu Shortcut: Change in System Settings under App Shortcuts

Conclusion

• Demonstrated multiple ways to use Mac Menu bar with keyboard
• Useful for those who prefer keyboard over mouse/trackpad

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