If you’re switching from Windows to a MacBook Pro, you may be wondering: Where is the Alt button? On a Windows keyboard, the Alt button is used for many shortcuts, such as Alt + Tab to switch between apps.
But on a Mac keyboard, things work a little differently.
There Is No Alt Button, But There Is an Option Key
The MacBook Pro does not have a key labeled “Alt”. Instead, it has a key called “Option”. This key works the same way as the Alt button on Windows.
Look at your keyboard. You’ll see the Option key next to the Command key. It usually has the word “Option” and sometimes a symbol that looks like ⌥.
Using the Option Key Instead of Alt
Now that you’ve found the Option key, let’s see how you can use it just like the Alt button:
- Alt + Tab (Windows) → Command + Tab (Mac)
Use Command + Tab to switch between open applications. - Alt + F4 (Windows) → Command + Q (Mac)
Quit an application by pressing Command + Q. - Alt key for special characters
The Option key lets you type special symbols. Try Option + 2 to type the ™ symbol.
There are many shortcuts using the Option key. Once you get used to them, using your MacBook Pro will be much faster!
What If You’re Using an External Keyboard?
If you’re using a Windows keyboard with your Mac, you won’t see an Option key. Instead, the Alt key on your Windows keyboard works as Option.
This means if you press Alt on a Windows keyboard, your Mac reads it as the Option key.
Sometimes, the keys might feel swapped when using an external keyboard. If you want to fix that, you can remap them in the keyboard settings:
- Open System Settings on your Mac.
- Go to Keyboard.
- Click Keyboard Shortcuts.
- Find Modifier Keys and swap Command and Option if needed.
Other Useful Mac Keyboard Tips
Now that you know about the Option key, here are some extra tips to make typing on a Mac easier:
- Option + Click: Holding Option while clicking on menus shows extra options.
- Option + Shift: Use these together for more precise text selection.
- Keyboard Viewer: Turn on Keyboard Viewer in System Settings to see all available symbols and shortcuts.
Final Thoughts
Mac keyboards may look different, but they have the same essential functions. The Option key takes the place of Alt, and once you get used to it, typing and shortcuts feel just as smooth.
Now that you know where the MacBook Pro’s Alt button is (hint: it’s the Option key!), you can enjoy your Mac without confusion.
