Effortlessly Delete Current Line in macOS Using a Custom Shortcut

Deleting the current line in macOS with a single keystroke is a common wish for many power users, especially when it comes to rapid text editing. Unfortunately, macOS does not provide a built-in single-key shortcut for deleting the current line both before and after the cursor. However, thanks to various tools, you can create a custom shortcut using either Alfred workflow, Karabiner-Elements, or Keyboard Maestro.

Creating a Shortcut with Alfred

Alfred is a powerful workflow creation tool that can help you achieve this functionality. If you don't have Alfred installed, it's highly recommended to start by installing it along with the Powerpack, which enables more advanced workflows.

Install Alfred Create a new workflow in Alfred Add a Script Action in Alfred to run a bash script or Python script Use the following bash script to delete the current line: osascript -e tell application "System Events" to keystroke "A" using {command down} osascript -e tell application "System Events" to keystroke "K" using {command down} Set a hotkey for your workflow that triggers the script

Alternative: Using Karabiner-Elements

Karabiner-Elements offers a system-wide solution that can remap keys to perform the desired actions. Here’s how to set it up:

Install Karabiner-Elements from the official website Go to the Complex Modifications section in Karabiner-Elements Create a custom rule to map a single key (e.g., F19) to perform the command A and delete actions

Combining Command A and Delete

While you can’t directly combine these two actions into a single shortcut, you can create a macro in applications like Keyboard Maestro to achieve this functionality.

Install Keyboard Maestro if you don't have it already Create a new macro Set a hotkey trigger (e.g., F11) Add actions to simulate the keystrokes: Trigger: Keystroke - Command A Trigger: Keystroke - Delete

Summary

For a single-key shortcut, using either Alfred or Karabiner-Elements is highly recommended. Keyboard Maestro can also help create a macro for combining actions like Command A and Delete, streamlining your text editing process on macOS.

By leveraging these tools, you can significantly enhance your productivity and make your text editing workflow more efficient.