Complete Guide to FreeCAD Keyboard Shortcuts | Basic Operations, View Switching, and More

File Operations

In FreeCAD, you’ll often work with multiple documents, and memorizing file-related shortcuts dramatically speeds things up. In addition to the core trio of Ctrl+N/O/S, combining Ctrl+E (Export) and Ctrl+R (Recompute) lets you handle intermediate outputs and apply changes without touching the menus. Also, a subtly frequent pair: Alt+F4 exits, while Ctrl+F4 closes the tab. Remembering “Ctrl vs. Alt” helps avoid confusion.

Edit Operations

Edit shortcuts follow your operating system conventions. One original FreeCAD tip: press Space to toggle an object’s visibility on and off; it’s used frequently, so learn it first.

Zoom & Rotate

Zoom and rotation are used constantly in FreeCAD. Adjust magnification quickly with Ctrl + +/−, and jump to an area of interest with Box Zoom (Ctrl + B). Rotation with Shift is also used frequently, so commit it to memory.

View Switching

Because FreeCAD work is three‑dimensional, viewpoint control is essential. Master view switching with confidence. A recommended combo: V → O/P toggles between orthographic and perspective, and V → F fits all while V → S fits the selection for quick framing. Switching window layouts (V → D/U) also helps maintain a clear view. If you get lost, reflexively using V → F/S speeds recovery.

Standard Views

Standard views snap with number keys, so just remember “number keys switch standard views.”

Windows/Tabs

In large-scale designs, managing tabs and view areas directly impacts productivity; once comfortable, mastering these switches will speed up your workflow. Cycle through tabs with Ctrl + Tab and close unneeded ones with Ctrl + F4. Use full screen at the OS level (F11) and FreeCAD’s own full screen (Alt + F11) as needed to lock in effective layouts during reviews or recording.