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macOS brings a multitude of utilities to optimize user experience. Particularly, it features a shortcut system to minimize manual tasks. In today's article, we'll introduce you to using the Option key on Mac for maximum efficiency. Let's explore!
1. Mastering Mac's Option Key for Enhanced User Experience
macOS brings a multitude of utilities to optimize user experience. Particularly, it features a shortcut system to minimize manual tasks. In today's article, we'll introduce you to using the Option key on Mac for maximum efficiency. Let's explore!
1. Access System Information Using the Option Key on Mac
Previously, when checking, for example, the number of charges, we often did so by clicking on the Apple logo > selecting About This Mac > choosing System Report. This method of inquiry often takes a lot of time.
So now, to do that, we just need to use the Option key on Mac: Click on the Apple logo > press the Option key > select System Information.
Access System Information
2. Revealing Hidden Browser Options
If you use browsers like Chrome or Safari, or any other application, use the Option key to reveal hidden options that are not normally found during regular use.
Revealing Hidden Browser Options
These options can help access some features faster than normal. For example, with Safari, when opening options like File, View, History, Window on the menu bar, along with the Option key, you will open additional hidden options within each menu.
Expand Bluetooth, Input, and Output Options
Similarly, with sound settings, when pressing the Option key and opening sound options (Sound) on the menu bar or in the Control Center, you will also see input and output devices below the volume slider.
4. Using the Option Key on Mac to Display Wi-Fi Information
This is a quick way for you to view information about the Wi-Fi network you're connected to, such as IP address, country code, channel on your Mac.
Additionally, you can quickly generate diagnostics reports by holding the Option key while clicking on the Wi-Fi icon on the menu bar.
6. Enhance Image Export with Additional Formats
If you swiftly open and edit images using the Preview app available on macOS, you can select from more formats than the default options provided by macOS, such as KTX, TGA, TIFF, PostScript, and more.
Enhance Image Export with Additional Formats
To open up more image export format options is very simple. At the image you wish to export, select File > Export. Right within the Format box, hold down Option and click the dropdown menu to reveal additional formats.
7. Other Shortcuts Used with the Option Key on Mac
Command + Option + D: Quickly hide and reveal the Dock.
Command + Option + M: Hide all open windows.
Command + Option + Esc: Force quit applications.
Command + Option + W: Close all open windows.
Command + Option + Shift + V: Paste unformatted text.
Shift + Option + Volume keys: Adjust volume in smaller increments (useful for Mac models without a Touch Bar).
Shift + Option + Brightness keys: Adjust brightness in smaller increments (useful for Mac models without a Touch Bar).
For newcomers to macOS, these Mac Option keys will surely enhance your user experience. Moreover, there are many more utilities and shortcuts waiting for you to explore in the upcoming articles. Don't forget to stay tuned!
