1-3 The Essential Cursor Keyboard Shortcuts You Need to Know

In this article, we'll cover the most essential Command shortcuts for Cursor. If you're using Windows, just replace "Command" with "Control" throughout this guide.

Why Cursor Shortcuts Matter

When you're using AI coding tools like Cursor, knowing the right shortcuts makes all the difference. It's like knowing the difference between walking and driving – both get you there, but one is way faster.

These shortcuts aren't just about speed. They're about staying in the flow. When you can quickly tell the AI what you want without switching between windows or hunting through menus, you stay focused on the problem you're solving.

The Three Shortcuts That Matter Most

There are three keyboard shortcuts in Cursor that you'll use constantly:

Command + K: This lets you edit code directly or ask questions about selected code. Think of it as your quick-edit tool.

Command + K lets you call AI directly in your code

Command + L: This opens the AI chat sidebar where you can have conversations with the AI assistant. It's like having a coding buddy right next to you.

The same problem can be solved through Command + L's chat interface

Command + I: This launches the AI agent – your coding assistant that can handle complex tasks automatically. It's like having a junior developer who never gets tired.

Beyond these three, Cursor also lets you customize shortcuts to fit your workflow:

Which One Should You Use When?

Here's the simple rule: match the tool to the task.

Use Command + K when you want the AI to change something specific in your code. Select the code that needs fixing, hit Command + K, and tell it what to do. It's perfect for quick edits and small changes.

Use Command + L when you want to ask questions or discuss code without changing anything. Select some confusing code, hit Command + L, and ask "What does this do?" It's your research tool.

Use Command + I when you need the AI to do something big or complex. Maybe you want it to write a new function, refactor a class, or handle multiple files. The AI agent can work across your entire project.

Think of it this way: Command + K is like using a screwdriver, Command + L is like asking a friend for advice, and Command + I is like hiring a contractor. Each has its place.

The complexity of your task matters too. Simple questions work fine with Command + K. But if you need the AI to think through a problem or handle multiple steps, Command + I will give you better results.

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