Introduction
Keyboard shortcuts make Canvas mode much faster. Master these to work efficiently with visual layouts.
Essential Shortcuts
Selection:
- V: Select tool
- Cmd+A: Select all
- Escape: Deselect all
Editing:
- Cmd+C: Copy
- Cmd+V: Paste
- Cmd+D: Duplicate
- Delete: Remove selected
- Cmd+Z: Undo
- Cmd+Shift+Z: Redo
View:
- Cmd+0: Fit all objects in view
- Cmd++ / Cmd+-: Zoom in/out
- Spacebar+Drag: Pan canvas
Layers:
- Cmd+]: Bring forward
- Cmd+[: Send backward
- Cmd+Shift+]: Bring to front
- Cmd+Shift+[: Send to back
Power Techniques
Quick Duplication
Select object → Cmd+D → Drag duplicate
Faster than copy/paste for multiple copies.
Precise Alignment
Select multiple objects → Use alignment buttons in toolbar:
- Align left/center/right
- Align top/middle/bottom
- Distribute evenly
Locking
Cmd+L: Lock selected objects
Locked objects:
- Can't be moved or edited
- Shown with lock icon
- Perfect for finalized layouts
Tips for Efficient Canvas Work
- Use keyboard for speed: Shortcuts faster than mouse
- Lock background elements: Prevent accidental moves
- Duplicate for consistency: Copy good layouts
- Group related items: Keep organized
Next Steps
- Canvas Mood Boards — Canvas basics
- Interactive Storyboards — Sequential layouts
- Multi-Select Everything — Selection techniques