Knowing the redo shortcut is one of the fastest ways to increase your efficiency while working on documents, spreadsheets, or code. 🔁 It helps you reverse an “undo” action—bringing back text, formatting, or changes that you might have accidentally erased. Whether you’re a Windows user, on macOS, or navigating Ubuntu, mastering the redo shortcut will save you countless clicks and time! 🖱️⌛
What Is the Redo Shortcut?
The redo shortcut allows you to repeat or restore the last action you undid. It works across popular applications like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs, Photoshop, and even code editors like VS Code.
For example:
- You accidentally delete a paragraph.
- You press Ctrl + Z to undo.
- Realize you actually want it back?
- Hit the redo shortcut — and boom! It’s back. 😎
For Windows 💻
The universal redo shortcut on Windows is:
✅ Ctrl + Y
or
✅ Ctrl + Shift + Z (used in some apps like Adobe or Google Docs)
📝 Common Windows Programs That Use It:
| Application | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Office | Ctrl + Y |
| Google Docs | Ctrl + Shift + Z |
| Adobe Photoshop | Ctrl + Shift + Z |
| VS Code | Ctrl + Y |
| Notepad++ | Ctrl + Y |
⚠️ Pro Tip:
If one doesn’t work, try the other. Some apps differ in their shortcut settings.
For macOS 🍏
On Mac systems, the redo shortcut is:
✅ Cmd + Shift + Z
Unlike Windows, Mac uses only one universal shortcut for redo across nearly all software.
📝 macOS Applications and Shortcuts:
| Application | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Pages / Keynote | Cmd + Shift + Z |
| Google Docs | Cmd + Shift + Z |
| Microsoft Office | Cmd + Y or Cmd + Shift + Z |
| Final Cut Pro | Cmd + Shift + Z |
For Ubuntu/Linux 🐧
On Ubuntu or most Linux environments (e.g., Gnome, KDE), the redo shortcut is:
✅ Ctrl + Shift + Z
or
✅ Ctrl + Y (depending on the app)
📝 Examples:
| Application | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| LibreOffice | Ctrl + Y |
| Gedit | Ctrl + Shift + Z |
| VS Code | Ctrl + Y |
| Google Docs | Ctrl + Shift + Z |
💡 Linux Tip:
You can often customize your keyboard shortcuts in your system settings or within the application preferences.
Why You Should Learn the Redo Shortcut ⏩
Here’s why every user—beginner or pro—should make the redo shortcut a habit:
- Saves Time: Redoing with a shortcut is faster than navigating menus.
- Reduces Errors: Instantly correct accidental undos.
- Boosts Confidence: Makes trial and error feel safer.
- Essential for Editing: Writers, designers, developers—you’ll love it!
When the Redo Shortcut Doesn’t Work ❌
Sometimes the redo shortcut may fail if:
- There’s nothing to redo.
- The software doesn’t support multiple levels of undo/redo.
- You’ve used a tool that resets history (like saving/exporting).
In such cases, check the Edit menu or shortcut settings.
Customize Shortcuts 🧠
Most modern programs let you customize shortcuts. If the default doesn’t fit your workflow, head to:
- Windows: File > Options > Customize Ribbon or Keyboard Shortcuts
- macOS: System Settings > Keyboard > Shortcuts
- Ubuntu: Settings > Keyboard Shortcuts
Change Ctrl + Shift + Z to anything that suits your muscle memory.
FAQs
What is the difference between undo and redo?
Undo reverses your last action, while redo restores the undone action.
Can I redo multiple actions?
Yes, in most modern apps. Keep pressing the shortcut to step forward through redo history.
Why do some apps use Ctrl + Y and others Ctrl + Shift + Z?
It depends on the platform and design preference. Adobe and Google use Ctrl + Shift + Z; Microsoft prefers Ctrl + Y.
Can I change the redo shortcut in Excel or Word?
Yes! Go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon > Keyboard Shortcuts.
Does redo work in browser forms?
Sometimes, but it depends on the field and browser. It’s more reliable in document editors.
Does Cmd + Shift + Z work everywhere on Mac?
Mostly yes, but always check the “Edit” menu in the app for exact shortcuts.
Conclusion: A Small Combo with Big Impact 🚀
The redo shortcut might seem small, but it’s mighty. Whether you’re editing a document, coding a script, or designing in Photoshop, it’s a real time-saver and peace-of-mind tool. 💡
Now that you know how it works across Windows, macOS, and Ubuntu, you’ll be faster, more confident, and way more efficient at the keyboard. Try it now: hit Ctrl + Y or Cmd + Shift + Z and see magic unfold. 🎉
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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