Customizing Shortcuts in LibreOffice on Debian
LibreOffice on Debian allows users to customize shortcuts either through the system-wide settings (for basic adjustments) or within the application itself (for program-specific or advanced changes). Below is a step-by-step guide to both methods, along with key details to ensure a smooth process.
1. System-Wide Shortcut Customization (Debian Settings)
This method lets you set global shortcuts for launching LibreOffice applications (Writer, Calc, Impress).
- Open System Settings: Click the left-top menu (gear icon) and select “System Settings.”
- Navigate to Keyboard Settings: Go to “Devices” → “Keyboard.”
- Access Shortcut Configuration: Scroll to the bottom of the Keyboard window and click “Shortcuts.”
- Modify LibreOffice Shortcuts: In the Shortcuts window, find the section for LibreOffice tools (e.g., “LibreOffice Writer,” “LibreOffice Calc”). Select the desired application and click the existing shortcut (or an empty entry). Press your preferred key combination (e.g.,
Super+W for Writer) to assign it.
- Save Changes: Close the window—changes are applied automatically.
2. Application-Specific Shortcut Customization (Within LibreOffice)
For granular control (e.g., changing shortcuts for “Bold,” “Find,” or “Save As”), use LibreOffice’s built-in customization tool:
- Open LibreOffice: Launch any application (e.g., Writer).
- Access Customization Menu: Go to Tools → Customize.
- Select Shortcut Scope: In the “Customize” dialog, click the “Keyboard” tab. Use the top-right radio buttons to choose between “Current Program” (e.g., only Writer) or “All LibreOffice Programs” (applies to all apps).
- Choose a Function: Scroll through the “Functions” section (bottom-left) to find the action you want to shortcut (e.g., “Save” under “File” category, “Bold” under “Format” category).
- Assign a Shortcut: Select the function, then click in the “Shortcut Keys” box (top-left). Press your desired key combination (e.g.,
Ctrl+Shift+S for “Save As”). The new shortcut will appear in the list.
- Resolve Conflicts: If a shortcut is already assigned to another function, LibreOffice will notify you. Either choose a different combination or remove the conflicting assignment.
- Save Changes: Click OK to apply all customizations.
3. Finding LibreOffice Commands for Customization
If you’re unsure of a command’s name (needed for application-specific customization), use the terminal to list all LibreOffice commands:
4. Key Tips for Successful Customization
- Avoid System Conflicts: Some shortcuts (e.g.,
Ctrl+Alt+T for terminal) may conflict with system or desktop environment shortcuts. Test your new shortcuts to ensure they work as expected.
- Reset to Default: If you mess up, go to the “Keyboard” tab in the “Customize” dialog and click “Reset to Default” to revert all changes.
- Save Often: LibreOffice autosaves shortcut settings, but manually clicking “OK” ensures changes are stored immediately.
By following these steps, you can tailor LibreOffice’s shortcuts to your workflow, whether you prefer system-wide adjustments or app-specific tweaks.
