If you need to quickly rename or save a new copy of your document, knowing the Word Save As shortcut is essential. Whether you’re working on Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu, Microsoft Word provides a fast way to open the “Save As” dialog using simple keyboard shortcuts. This allows you to save your work under a different name, location, or format without digging through the File menu—perfect for backing up files or creating templates.
💾 Why Use “Save As” in Word?
The Save As feature lets you:
- Save a copy of your current document without overwriting the original
- Rename your file for version control
- Change the file format (e.g., .docx to .pdf)
- Save in a different folder or drive
🪟 Word Save As Shortcut on Windows
✅ Keyboard Shortcut
F12
→ Instantly opens the Save As dialog in Microsoft Word.
This works in most Microsoft Office applications.
✅ Alternative: File Menu
- Click File
- Choose Save As
- Select location and enter a new file name
✅ Tip: To quickly open the “Save As” window and jump to different formats, use Alt + F + A.
🍏 Word Save As Shortcut on macOS
✅ Keyboard Shortcut
Command (⌘) + Shift + S
→ Opens the Save As dialog instantly.
✅ This shortcut also works in Excel, PowerPoint, and other Office apps for Mac.
✅ Alternative: File Menu
- Go to the top menu and click File
- Choose Save As…
- Select your destination and format
📝 Note: If “Save As” doesn’t appear by default, hold Option while clicking the File menu to reveal it.
🐧 Word Save As Shortcut on Ubuntu
Ubuntu users typically access Word through:
- LibreOffice Writer
- Microsoft Word Online
✅ LibreOffice Writer Shortcut
F12
→ Opens the Save As dialog, just like in Word.
✅ Word Online
- Press Ctrl + S to save (auto-saves to OneDrive)
- For “Save As”, click File > Save As > Choose format
🖥 Tip: In Word Online, Save As lets you download copies in .docx, .pdf, or .odt formats.
🔤 Shortcut Summary – Save As in Word
| Platform | Save As Shortcut | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | F12 | Opens Save As dialog immediately |
| macOS | Command + Shift + S | Full Save As window |
| Ubuntu | F12 (LibreOffice) | Same as Word; works in Writer |
| Word Online | File > Save As | No direct shortcut – manual only |
🧠 When to Use “Save As” vs. “Save”
- Save (Ctrl + S / ⌘ + S): Updates your current file
- Save As (F12 / ⌘ + Shift + S): Creates a new copy, preserving the original
Use Save As to:
- Create file versions (v1, v2, v3)
- Export files in different formats (PDF, Word, Plain Text)
- Back up important documents without overwriting
❓ FAQ – Word Save As Shortcut
Does Save As keep my formatting?
Yes, unless you change the file format (e.g., from .docx to .txt).
Can I change the default Save As location?
Yes. Go to Word Options > Save and set your preferred folder.
What if F12 doesn’t work?
Try Alt + F + A on Windows or check if function keys are enabled in your keyboard settings.
Is Save As available in Word Online?
Yes, through the File menu only—not with a keyboard shortcut.
Can I Save As directly to PDF?
Yes. In the Save As dialog, change the file format to PDF before saving.
✅ Conclusion
Mastering the Word Save As shortcut is a small but powerful step toward faster and safer document management. Whether you’re using F12 on Windows and Ubuntu or Command + Shift + S on macOS, this quick key combo lets you rename, back up, or convert your Word documents in seconds. Stop losing time with the mouse—use Save As like a pro!
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/
Advertisment