Open File Keyboard Shortcut
Open brings an existing document into the focused application; it does not create a new file.
- In Microsoft Word on Windows: Ctrl + O — Open Document
- On a Mac: Cmd + O — Open File
Recorded actions and binding evidence
Windows
Microsoft Word · File & View
Open Document — Open an existing document
Ctrl + O
macOS
macOS · File Management
Open File — Open an existing file
Cmd + O
· Source: Apple Support — Mac keyboard shortcuts
ChromeOS
ChromeOS · File Management
Open File — Open an existing file
Ctrl + O
· Source: Google Chromebook Help — Keyboard shortcuts (US QWERTY)
Also works in: Notepad++, Ubuntu Linux, Windows, Photoshop, Vim.
Context
Open brings an existing document into the focused application; it does not create a new file. The file picker, supported formats and access permissions belong to that application. Finder may instead open a selected item. Browser Open File behavior is not a universal command for a web editor's cloud documents.
Use the binding for your application and platform. Custom keymaps, keyboard layouts and intercepted system keys can change the behavior you observe.
Practical checks
- Choose the app that supports the file format.
- Check the path and file name before opening.
- Treat downloaded executable files differently from ordinary documents.
Continue your task
- Microsoft Word shortcuts
- Notepad++ shortcuts
- Photoshop shortcuts
- Microsoft Word: Windows to Mac
- ChromeOS shortcuts
- macOS shortcuts
Build a shortcut list for the apps you actually use.
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