Shortcut answer

VS Code Command Palette Shortcut

Open the Visual Studio Code Command Palette and run almost any editor command without searching through menus.

Quick answer

Press Ctrl+Shift+P on Windows or Linux, or Command+Shift+P on Mac, to open the VS Code Command Palette. You can also press F1. Start typing a command, then use the arrow keys and Enter to run it.

Shortcut reference

Windows/Linux

Ctrl + Shift + P

Open the Command Palette.

macOS

⌘ + Shift + P

Open the Command Palette.

Alternative

F1

Open the same Command Palette from any editor context.

Keyboard shortcuts editor

Ctrl/⌘ + K, Ctrl/⌘ + S

Open the full keyboard shortcuts reference.

How the shortcut works

The Command Palette is VS Code’s searchable command launcher. It includes commands from the editor, installed extensions, and many actions that do not have a visible menu button. Type a few distinctive words, such as “format document” or “toggle word wrap,” to filter the list.

The leading greater-than prompt means you are searching commands. VS Code also uses the same palette for symbols, files, and tasks through related quick-open features. Press Escape to close it without running a command.

Helpful tips

  • When a command has a shortcut, VS Code displays the keybinding on the right side of the result. This is a fast way to discover shortcuts you will actually use.
  • If a command is missing, check its extension, workspace trust, or current editor context. Some commands only appear when a file, folder, or language mode makes them relevant.