How to Use the Command 'shortcuts' (with examples)

The ‘shortcuts’ command is a powerful tool for managing your library of shortcuts directly from the command line on macOS. By leveraging this command, users can automate tasks, streamline workflow management, and interact with the Shortcuts ecosystem efficiently. The functionality provided makes it a versatile tool, extending beyond the graphical interface of the Shortcuts app.

Use case 1: Run the specified shortcut

Code:

shortcuts run "Count holidays"

Motivation:
Running a specific shortcut directly from the command line can significantly boost your productivity by automating repetitive tasks without the need to manually interact with the Shortcuts app. For example, if you have a shortcut set up to count the number of holidays planned for the current year, you can execute this with a single command rather than navigating through the Shortcuts app interface.

Explanation:

• shortcuts: This invokes the Shortcuts command line tool.
• run: This command is used to execute a specified shortcut.
• "Count holidays": This is the name of the shortcut you want to run. The name should match exactly with the one in the Shortcuts app.

Example Output:

7 holidays found in the upcoming year.

Use case 2: Print all shortcuts

Code:

shortcuts list

Motivation:
Listing all available shortcuts provides a quick overview of your current automation arsenal, allowing you to swiftly manage, edit, or execute them as needed. When dealing with a large number of shortcuts, this command becomes invaluable for organizational purposes and aids in quick identification of automations that can be improved or newly created.

Explanation:

• shortcuts: This command tool provides access to the shortcuts management functionalities.
• list: This argument retrieves and displays all shortcuts currently available in your library.

Example Output:

1. Count holidays
2. Morning routine
3. Send daily report

Use case 3: Print all shortcut folders

Code:

shortcuts list --folders

Motivation:
Understanding how your shortcuts are organized can simplify navigation and management. By listing all folders, users can quickly re-evaluate the structure of their shortcuts library, ensuring a logical system that supports productivity.

Explanation:

• shortcuts: Invokes the command line interface for managing shortcuts.
• list: Lists the contents of either shortcuts or folders available.
• --folders: This flag specifies that the command should list folders instead of individual shortcuts.

Example Output:

1. Work
2. Personal
3. Travel

Use case 4: Open the specified shortcut in the Shortcuts editor

Code:

shortcuts view "Count holidays"

Motivation:
Sometimes, you might want to quickly edit a shortcut to fine-tune its actions or parameters. Using the command to open a specific shortcut in the editor saves you time by bypassing the need to manually search and navigate within the Shortcuts app, thus streamlining the editing process.

Explanation:

• shortcuts: This command line interface grants direct control over shortcut management.
• view: Opens the specified shortcut in the Shortcuts editor for viewing or editing.
• "Count holidays": Refers to the exact name of the shortcut you want to open. It’s necessary to ensure spelling and case-sensitivity match the existing entry.

Example Output:

Opens the "Count holidays" shortcut in the Shortcuts app, allowing for direct editing and review.

Conclusion:

The ‘shortcuts’ command is an excellent addition for users who thrive on automating workflows and minimizing manual interactions with their filesystem. By running, listing, organizing, and editing shortcuts directly via the command line, users can streamline their digital activities significantly. These examples showcase the versatility and utility of this command in macOS for enhancing productivity and better managing day-to-day tasks.