How to Use Keyboard Shortcuts Effectively in SolidWorks

To use keyboard shortcuts effectively in SolidWorks, learn the default shortcut keys for common commands and customize them to fit your workflow. Use the Keyboard Shortcuts menu to assign or change shortcuts, and practice using them regularly to speed up your design process.

Syntax

Keyboard shortcuts in SolidWorks are key combinations that trigger commands quickly. You can use single keys or combinations with Ctrl, Shift, and Alt.

To view or change shortcuts, go to Tools > Customize > Keyboard. Here you can assign keys to commands.

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Ctrl + N  // Opens a new document
Ctrl + S  // Saves the current document
Ctrl + Z  // Undo last action
Shift + S  // Opens the shortcut bar
Alt + Drag  // Moves a component in assembly

Example

This example shows how to assign a custom shortcut to the Extruded Boss/Base feature and use it to speed up part creation.

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1. Open SolidWorks.
2. Go to Tools > Customize > Keyboard.
3. In the search box, type "Extruded Boss/Base".
4. Select the command and click in the "Press new shortcut key" box.
5. Press a key combination, e.g., Ctrl + E.
6. Click "Assign" and then "OK".
7. Now, press Ctrl + E anytime to start the Extruded Boss/Base feature.

Output

Pressing Ctrl + E opens the Extruded Boss/Base feature dialog immediately.

Common Pitfalls

• Trying to memorize too many shortcuts at once can be overwhelming; start with a few key commands.
• Assigning shortcuts that conflict with Windows or other software shortcuts can cause issues.
• Not customizing shortcuts to your workflow may limit productivity gains.

Always check for conflicts in the Customize Keyboard menu before assigning new shortcuts.

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/* Wrong way: Assigning Ctrl + C to a SolidWorks command (conflicts with Copy) */
/* Right way: Use Ctrl + Shift + C or another unused combination */

Quick Reference

Shortcut	Action
Ctrl + N	New Document
Ctrl + S	Save Document
Ctrl + Z	Undo
Shift + S	Shortcut Bar
Ctrl + E	Extruded Boss/Base (custom example)
Alt + Drag	Move Component in Assembly

Key Takeaways

Learn and customize keyboard shortcuts in SolidWorks to match your workflow.

Start with a few essential shortcuts and gradually add more as you get comfortable.

Avoid shortcut conflicts by checking existing assignments before customizing.

Use the Tools > Customize > Keyboard menu to view and assign shortcuts easily.

Practice shortcuts regularly to improve speed and efficiency in your designs.