If you’re new to Ubuntu or Linux in general, you may have come across the term “Super” key when reading about keyboard shortcuts. The Super key is an essential part of many Linux shortcuts, particularly in desktop environments like GNOME (which Ubuntu uses).
Understanding what the Super key is and how to use it can make your navigation and workflow in Linux much more efficient. This guide will explain what the Super key is, where to find it, and how it is used in common shortcuts on Ubuntu.
What Is the Super Key?
The Super key on Linux systems is typically the same as the Windows key on a standard keyboard. It is labeled with the Windows logo on most keyboards but referred to as the Super key in Linux.
On Mac keyboards, the Command key serves a similar function in Linux systems when you are using Linux on Apple hardware. In general, the Super key is located between the Ctrl and Alt keys on the left side of your keyboard.
Why Is It Called the “Super” Key?
The term Super key dates back to early Unix systems, where it was used to represent a special key that didn’t have a standard symbol or name. The name stuck, and while many Linux users may have Windows keyboards with the Windows logo, the key is universally referred to as Super in the Linux ecosystem to avoid platform-specific references.
Where Is the Super Key?
The Super key is located in the following places depending on your keyboard:
- Windows Key: On most keyboards, the Super key is the same as the Windows key, located between the Ctrl and Alt keys.
- Command Key (⌘): On Mac keyboards, the Command key is used as the Super key when running Linux.
- On some older or specialized keyboards, the Super key may be labeled Meta or Super.
Common Ubuntu Shortcuts Using the Super Key
In Ubuntu (and other Linux distributions using GNOME or similar desktop environments), the Super key is integral to many useful shortcuts that improve navigation, window management, and productivity. Here are some of the most common Ubuntu shortcuts that involve the Super key:
1. Open the Activities Overview
The Activities Overview is a powerful feature in Ubuntu that lets you quickly switch between open windows, search for applications, or launch new ones.
- Super key: Pressing the Super key alone will open the Activities Overview.
2. Show Application Menu
The application menu allows you to browse and search for installed applications.
- Super + A: Opens the application menu, where you can see all installed applications.
3. Toggle Between Open Windows
You can quickly cycle through your open windows using the Super key.
- Super + Tab: Cycles through your open windows (in the order they were opened).
- Super + ` (backtick): Cycles through the windows of the current application.
4. Lock the Screen
Lock your screen to protect your system when you step away.
- Super + L: Locks the screen, requiring a password to log back in.
5. Snap Windows to the Screen Edges
Snapping windows is a useful feature for multitasking, allowing you to resize and position windows easily.
- Super + Left/Right Arrow: Snaps the current window to the left or right side of the screen.
- Super + Up Arrow: Maximizes the current window.
- Super + Down Arrow: Minimizes the current window or restores it to its previous size.
6. Show the Desktop
You can quickly minimize all windows to view the desktop.
- Super + D: Minimizes all windows to show the desktop.
7. Switch Workspaces
Workspaces let you organize your work across multiple virtual desktops, reducing clutter and improving focus.
- Super + Page Up/Page Down: Switches between workspaces.
- Super + Shift + Page Up/Page Down: Moves the current window to another workspace.
8. Open the Run Command Prompt
Quickly open applications or run commands with a simple key combination.
- Alt + F2: Opens the command prompt to run a command without using the terminal.
9. Open the Terminal
For many Linux users, the terminal is essential. You can open it quickly with this shortcut.
- Ctrl + Alt + T: Opens the terminal directly.
Customizing Super Key Shortcuts
Ubuntu and other Linux distributions allow you to customize the behavior of the Super key and other shortcuts. To view or change the shortcuts:
- Open Settings from the application menu or Activities Overview.
- Navigate to Keyboard > Shortcuts.
- Here, you can see all the predefined shortcuts and reassign them according to your preferences.
This customization option is handy if you want to assign the Super key to new functions or disable certain shortcuts.
Conclusion
The Super key is a crucial part of the keyboard shortcut system in Ubuntu and many other Linux distributions. While it’s often labeled as the Windows key on most keyboards, it has a variety of useful functions in Linux, from opening the Activities Overview to managing windows and workspaces.
Mastering Super key shortcuts can significantly speed up your navigation and improve your productivity. Whether you’re a Linux beginner or an experienced user, understanding and using the Super key will enhance your workflow.
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