How-To Guide

Essential Cursor Keyboard Shortcuts

Master Cursor's keyboard shortcuts for AI features. Cmd+K, Cmd+L, Composer, and more for maximum productivity.

Essential Cursor Keyboard Shortcuts

1

Learn the core AI shortcuts

Cmd+K: inline edit/generate. Cmd+L: open chat panel. Cmd+I: open Composer for multi-file edits. These three shortcuts are the foundation of Cursor's AI workflow.

2

Master Tab completion

When Cursor shows ghost text (grayed-out code suggestions), press Tab to accept the full suggestion. Press Cmd+→ to accept word by word. Press Escape to dismiss.

3

Use selection shortcuts

Select code before pressing Cmd+K or Cmd+L to include it as context. Cmd+Shift+L opens chat with the current selection pre-filled. These shortcuts help you ask targeted questions.

4

Navigate with standard VS Code shortcuts

All VS Code shortcuts work in Cursor: Cmd+P (file finder), Cmd+Shift+F (project search), Cmd+B (toggle sidebar), Cmd+` (toggle terminal). Your muscle memory transfers completely.

Pro tips

  • *

    Customize AI shortcuts in Keyboard Shortcuts settings (Cmd+K Cmd+S) if the defaults conflict

  • *

    Use Cmd+Enter in chat to send a message (Enter adds a new line)

  • *

    Cmd+Shift+I toggles Composer in a floating window vs sidebar mode

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