Cut Shortcut (Ctrl+X / ⌘X)
Cut is ⌘X on Mac and Ctrl+X on Windows — it removes the selection and puts it on the clipboard. Copy and paste sit right next to it.
| Action | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cut | ⌘X | Ctrl+X | |
| Copy | ⌘C | Ctrl+C | |
| Paste | ⌘V | Ctrl+V | |
| Paste without formatting | ⌘⇧V | Ctrl+Shift+V | |
| Undo | ⌘Z | Ctrl+Z | |
| Cut a whole line (some editors) | ⌘X (no selection) | Ctrl+X (no selection) |
Cut = copy + delete
⌘X (Mac) or Ctrl+X (Windows) removes the selected text or object and places it on the clipboard, ready to paste elsewhere with ⌘V / Ctrl+V. Unlike ⌘C (copy), cut deletes the original.
Cut a whole line
In many code editors (VS Code, Sublime) pressing ⌘X / Ctrl+X with nothing selected cuts the entire current line — a fast way to move a line down or up.
FAQ
What is the cut shortcut?
Press ⌘X on the Mac or Ctrl+X on Windows to remove the selected text and place it on the clipboard.
What is the difference between cut and copy?
Cut (⌘X / Ctrl+X) removes the original and puts it on the clipboard; copy (⌘C / Ctrl+C) leaves the original in place.
How do I cut a whole line without selecting it?
In many editors, press ⌘X / Ctrl+X with no selection and it cuts the entire current line.