Ubuntu Keyboard Shortcuts: Complete Cheatsheet

Ubuntu’s keyboard shortcuts are essential tools for maximizing productivity and efficiency. Whether you’re a developer, sysadmin, or power user, these shortcuts might speed up your workflow and reduce reliance on the mouse.

Essential System Shortcuts

These fundamental shortcuts work across the entire Ubuntu system and are the foundation of efficient navigation.

Application and Window Management

Workspace Navigation

Ubuntu’s workspace feature allows you to organize your workflow across multiple virtual desktops:

System Controls

File Manager (Nautilus) Shortcuts

Efficient file management is crucial for any Linux user. While Ubuntu uses Nautilus as the default file manager, you might want to explore other file managers for Ubuntu 24.04 like Nemo, Dolphin, or Caja, each with their own keyboard shortcuts and features:

Terminal Shortcuts

For developers and system administrators, terminal shortcuts are invaluable. For a comprehensive guide on bash commands and usage, check out our Bash Cheat Sheet. If you work with multiple terminal windows, you might also be interested in learning how to start terminal windows tiled for better workspace organization:

Navigation and Editing

Terminal Window Management

Text Editing Universal Shortcuts

These shortcuts work in most text editors and applications:

Web Browser Shortcuts

Essential shortcuts for browsing (Firefox, Chrome, etc.):

Accessibility Shortcuts

Ubuntu provides shortcuts for enhanced accessibility:

Advanced Power User Tips

Custom Shortcuts

You can create custom keyboard shortcuts for any command:

1. Open Settings > Keyboard > View and Customize Shortcuts
2. Scroll to the bottom and click “Custom Shortcuts”
3. Click the “+” button
4. Enter a name and command
5. Click “Set Shortcut” and press your desired key combination

Useful Custom Shortcuts Ideas

• Launch specific applications (e.g., Super + B for browser)
• Execute scripts (e.g., Super + Shift + U for system update script)
• Open frequently used directories
• Toggle system monitoring tools (like GPU monitoring applications for those working with graphics-intensive tasks)

Workspace Optimization

Maximize productivity by organizing your work environment effectively:

• Creating 4-6 workspaces for different tasks (coding, communication, research)
• Using consistent window positioning across workspaces with snap shortcuts
• Assigning specific applications to workspaces using GNOME Extensions
• Setting up tiled terminal windows for efficient multitasking with command-line tools

Keyboard Shortcuts for Different Ubuntu Versions

While most shortcuts remain consistent, there are some variations:

Ubuntu 20.04 LTS and Earlier

• Activities overview: Super or Alt + F1
• Application menu: Alt + F2 for run command

Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and Later

• Enhanced workspace switching animations
• Improved touchpad gesture integration
• New screenshot tool with additional options

Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

• Updated GNOME version with refined shortcuts
• Better multi-monitor support
• Enhanced accessibility features

If you’re new to Ubuntu 24.04 or planning to upgrade, our guide on how to install Ubuntu 24.04 and useful tools covers the complete setup process. You can verify your installation and check your Linux Ubuntu version to ensure you’re running the correct release.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Shortcut Not Working

1. Check if the shortcut is already assigned to another action
2. Ensure the required application is installed
3. Restart GNOME Shell: Alt + F2, type r, press Enter
4. Check for conflicting extensions

Creating a Shortcuts Cheatsheet

Create a physical reference:

# Generate a list of all shortcuts
gsettings list-recursively org.gnome.desktop.wm.keybindings > shortcuts.txt
gsettings list-recursively org.gnome.settings-daemon.plugins.media-keys >> shortcuts.txt

Performance Benefits

Using keyboard shortcuts provides measurable benefits:

• Speed: Execute commands 2-3x faster than using a mouse
• Ergonomics: Reduce repetitive strain from mouse usage
• Focus: Maintain concentration by staying on the keyboard
• Professionalism: Impress colleagues with efficient workflow

Integration with Development Workflow

For developers, combine Ubuntu shortcuts with IDE shortcuts:

• Use Ctrl + Alt + T to quickly open terminal
• Switch between IDE and browser with Alt + Tab
• Use workspaces to separate development, testing, and documentation
• Create custom shortcuts for build scripts and deployment commands
• Configure server settings efficiently (for example, changing static IP addresses when setting up development servers)

Related Ubuntu Resources

System Setup and Configuration

• How to Install Ubuntu 24.04 & useful tools
• Check Linux Ubuntu Version
• How to Change a Static IP Address in Ubuntu Server

Desktop Environment Comparisons

• Kubuntu vs KDE Neon: A Technical Deep Dive
• Context menu in File managers for Ubuntu 24.04 - Nautilus vs Nemo vs Dolphin vs Caja

Developer Tools and Workflows

• Bash Cheat Sheet
• How to start terminal windows tiled linux mint ubuntu
• GPU monitoring applications in Linux / Ubuntu

Official Documentation

• Ubuntu Official Keyboard Shortcuts Documentation
• GNOME Keyboard Shortcuts Reference
• Ubuntu Community Wiki - Keyboard Shortcuts
• GNOME Extensions for Enhanced Shortcuts
• Bash Keyboard Shortcuts Cheatsheet