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Master Rapid Reader with keyboard shortcuts for faster navigation and control. All shortcuts work in both the web and desktop apps.
Mac vs Windows/Linux: Where shortcuts use a modifier key, Mac uses Cmd while Windows and Linux use Ctrl.

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Playback

Control reading playback without reaching for the mouse. For Vim users, familiar motion keys work throughout the app.
Vim shortcuts work identically to arrow keys. Use whichever feels more natural to you.

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Library

Navigate and manage your library without leaving the keyboard.
Multi-select: Hold Shift and click to select multiple items in your library for bulk actions.

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General

Essential shortcuts for the rest of the app.

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Context-Sensitive Behavior

Some shortcuts behave differently depending on what’s open.
  • No panels open: Up/Down adjust speed, Left/Right navigate words
  • Library open: Up/Down navigate between reads
  • Other panels open: Arrow keys may be used by the panel (e.g., for lists)
  • During playback: Stops playback and exits focus mode
  • Panel open: Closes the topmost panel
  • Fullscreen mode: Exits fullscreen first
  • Panel open: Closes the topmost panel
  • Multiple panels: Closes panels one at a time from top to bottom

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Platform Notes

Desktop (Mac)

Full keyboard support including native shortcuts like Cmd+O for opening files and Cmd+F for find-in-page.

Desktop (Windows/Linux)

Same shortcuts using Ctrl instead of Cmd. All features work identically.

Web

All shortcuts work except platform-specific features like find-in-page.

Mobile

Keyboards shortcuts work with external keyboards. See touch controls in Reading & Playback.

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Quick Reference Card

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Next Steps

Reading & Playback

Learn about touch gestures and playback controls

Customizing Appearance

Personalize fonts, colors, and display settings