Instant shortcut reference for macOS
CheatSheet is a free utility developed by Media Atelier that displays available keyboard shortcuts for the active macOS application. By holding the Command key, CheatSheet reveals an on-screen overlay listing shortcuts defined within the app’s menu system. This approach helps users discover commands without searching through menus manually. CheatSheet focuses on visibility rather than modification, offering a simple way to reference shortcuts already built into compatible applications.
CheatSheet reads shortcut information directly from an application’s menu structure and presents it in a clean overlay window. CheatSheet does not create or alter shortcuts, and it does not execute commands through mouse clicks. Instead, it acts purely as a visual reference tool. Users must press the actual key combinations shown. Accessibility permission is required for CheatSheet to detect and display shortcuts correctly across applications.
How shortcut discovery works in practice
Compatibility and practical limitations
CheatSheet works with applications that use standard macOS menu-based shortcuts. When an app does not define shortcuts in its menu system, CheatSheet displays an empty overlay. CheatSheet remains lightweight and unobtrusive, running quietly in the background until activated. As a focused utility, it does not include advanced customization or shortcut editing features, concentrating solely on improving shortcut visibility.
Final thoughts
CheatSheet stands out for its clarity and simplicity. Its strengths lie in immediate shortcut access and seamless integration with supported macOS applications. However, it depends entirely on how individual apps define their shortcuts and requires system permissions to function. For users aiming to learn and reference built-in commands more efficiently, CheatSheet provides a practical and straightforward solution.
Pros
- Displays built-in shortcuts instantly
- Lightweight and unobtrusive
- Free and easy to use
Cons
- Requires Accessibility permission
- Does not execute or customize shortcuts
- Limited to apps with menu-defined shortcuts
