How to Copy and Paste on Mac? (4 Easy Ways)

For people who are used to Windows PCs and are new to Mac computers, copying and pasting may feel strange at first. On the other hand, you can copy and paste on a Mac just as quickly as on a PC once you know the differences and pick up a few simple tricks. We’ll look at four different ways to copy and paste on a Mac: the keyboard, the menu bar, the context menu, and even copying and pasting between Apple devices. Let’s start right away and learn how to copy and paste on Mac.

How to Copy and Paste on Mac using the Keyboard

One of the most efficient ways to copy and paste on a Mac is by utilizing keyboard shortcuts. Here are the essential key combinations you need to know:

Command + C: This combination allows you to copy text, images, or files on a Mac. Simply select the item you want to copy and press Command + C.

Command + X: If you wish to cut the text or file instead of copying it, use this combination. After pressing Command + X, the item will be removed from its original location and stored on your clipboard.

Command + V: Once you’ve copied or cut an item, you can paste it using this combination. Position your cursor in the desired location and press Command + V to paste the item.

Remember, on a Mac, the Command key (⌘) located next to the space bar serves as the equivalent to the Windows key on a PC.

Copy and Paste Text on a Mac without Style Formatting

By default, copying and pasting retains the formatting style of the original document. However, if you wish to avoid pasting text with its previous formatting, you can follow these steps:

Select the text you want to copy.
Press Command + C to copy the text (or Command + X to cut it).

Navigate to the location where you want to paste the text.
Press Shift + Command + V to paste the text without its original formatting.

This method is particularly useful when you’re working with documents that have different formatting styles.

Copy and Paste on a Mac using the Context Menu

If you prefer using a mouse or trackpad on your Mac, you can opt for the context menu method to copy and paste. Here’s how:

Place your cursor on the file or select the text you want to copy.
Right-click on it or hold down the Control key and click.
From the context menu, select “Copy” to copy the item.

Move your cursor to the desired location and right-click again.
Choose “Paste” from the context menu to paste the item.

This method is especially convenient if you’re more comfortable with using a mouse or trackpad for copying and pasting.

Copy and Paste a Link on a Mac

Copying and pasting links on a Mac is as simple as following these steps:

Right-click on the link in your text document or webpage.
From the context menu, select “Copy link URL” to copy the link.

Position your cursor in the location where you want to paste the link.
Press Command + V or right-click and choose “Paste” from the context menu to paste the link.
This method allows you to quickly share or reference links in various applications.

Copy and Paste on a Mac using the Menu Bar

Most applications, including Finder on Macs, offer the Copy and Paste commands in the menu bar. Here’s how you can use them:

Copying an Image or File

Select the image or file you want to copy.
Go to the menu bar and click on “Edit.”
From the drop-down menu, select “Copy” or “Cut” (if you want to remove it from the original location).

Navigate to the folder where you want to place the selected item.
Click on “Edit” in the menu bar and select “Paste Item” to paste the item.

Copying and Pasting Text

Select the text you want to copy.
In the menu bar, choose “Edit” and then “Copy” or “Cut.”
Move the cursor to the desired location in your document.
Go to the menu bar, select “Edit,” and choose “Paste.”

If you want to paste the text without its original formatting style, select “Paste and Match Style” from the drop-down menu. The text will automatically adopt the style of the document you’re pasting it into.

Copy and Paste between Apple Devices

Thanks to the Universal Clipboard feature introduced in macOS Sierra, you can easily copy and paste images and text between your Mac computer and iPhone or iPad. To use this feature, ensure that you’re logged in to your iCloud account on both devices. Follow these steps:

Select the text or image on your Mac and press Command + C to copy it.
Open the application on your iPhone or iPad where you want to paste the item.
Tap on the screen and select “Paste.”

Similarly, you can copy an item from your iPhone or iPad and paste it on your Mac. Copy the item on your iPhone or iPad, open a document on your Mac, and press Command + V to paste it. Please note that there may be a slight delay before the item is pasted.

Why Can’t I Copy and Paste on My Mac to an External Hard Drive?

The ability to copy and paste to an external hard drive depends on several factors. Ensure that the external hard drive is formatted correctly and has sufficient storage space. Additionally, check if the drive is read-only or if there are any file permissions issues. If you continue to experience difficulties, try connecting the external hard drive to a different USB port or restarting your Mac.

Also Read: How do I get my Mac to recognize a new hard drive

In Closing

It’s important to know how to copy and paste on Mac because it makes work easier and more productive. You can easily copy and paste text, pictures, links, and files on your Mac if you learn the different techniques described in this complete guide. These tips will help you get good at copying and pasting on a Mac, whether you like to use keyboard tools, the context menu, the menu bar, or even copying and pasting between Apple devices. Start training now, and enjoy the ease of use and speed that come with having this important skill.