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How Do You Cut on a Laptop?

Published in Computing Actions 2 mins read

To 'cut' on a laptop, which means removing selected text, files, or items from their original location to move them elsewhere, you typically use a keyboard shortcut or a context menu option.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

The most common and efficient method to cut on a laptop is by using a keyboard shortcut.

As the reference states: Hold down Ctrl (left corner button of keyboard) and press the X key to cut.

This action removes the selected item(s) and places them onto the laptop's clipboard, a temporary storage area.

Keyboard Shortcut for Cutting

Action Keyboard Shortcut (Windows/Linux) Keyboard Shortcut (macOS)
Cut Ctrl + X Command + X

Note: The reference specifically mentions the Ctrl key, commonly found on Windows and Linux laptops. Mac laptops use the Command key instead of Ctrl for many shortcuts.

The Cut and Paste Process

Cutting an item is usually the first step in moving it. After cutting, the item is ready to be pasted into a new location.

Here’s how the full process typically works:

  1. Select the text, file, or folder you want to move.
  2. Cut the selected item using the keyboard shortcut (Ctrl + X on Windows/Linux, Command + X on macOS). The item often appears faded or is removed entirely from its original spot.
  3. Navigate to the destination where you want to place the item.
  4. Paste the item. This can be done using:
    • A keyboard shortcut (Ctrl + V on Windows/Linux, Command + V on macOS).
    • Right-clicking at the destination and choosing the 'Paste' option from the context menu. The reference mentions: "Right-click on the item's destination and choose Paste. You can right-click inside a document, folder, or nearly any other place."

Using the cut and paste function is a fundamental task for managing digital content and files on a laptop.