Keyboard shortcuts are one of the fastest ways to speed up your workflow in SketchUp. Whether you're modeling daily or just getting started, setting up intentional hot keys can dramatically reduce clicks and searching through the menu. 

Default Hot Keys 

These are the typical default shortcuts in SketchUp (based on standard installations). If a key is already assigned, you’ll see it listed in the Shortcuts panel.

Link to SketchUp Tools Overview

Commonly Unassigned / Available Keys

These are often available for customization (but always confirm in your Preferences panel since extensions may add their own):

How to Customize Hot Keys

Customizing shortcuts in SketchUp is simple:

Go to Window > Preferences

Mac: SketchUp > Settings > Shortcuts

Select the Shortcuts tab

Search for a command in the filter bar

Click in the “Add Shortcut” field

Press your desired key combination

Click + to assign

If a conflict appears, decide whether to reassign

You can also modify or remove existing shortcuts from this same panel.

Ideas for Custom Hot Keys

Instead of assigning keys randomly, group them by workflow. Keep it simple and intentional.

A Simple Rule

Assign shortcuts to:

Commands you use constantly

Commands buried in menus

Tools that interrupt modeling flow

Last updated by Abigail Green - March 2026