How to copy and paste
Quick answer
Select the text or item, press Ctrl + C to copy, click where you want it, and press Ctrl + V to paste. On a Mac, use Command + C and Command + V. On a phone, press and hold, tap Copy, then press and hold where you want it and tap Paste.
The shortcuts were chosen for where your fingers already are. C is for copy, X looks like scissors for cut, and V sits right next to them, like an arrow pointing down to insert.
Copy and paste shortcuts
| Action | Windows / Chromebook | Mac |
|---|---|---|
| Copy | Ctrl + C | ⌘ + C |
| Cut | Ctrl + X | ⌘ + X |
| Paste | Ctrl + V | ⌘ + V |
| Select all | Ctrl + A | ⌘ + A |
| Paste without formatting | Ctrl + Shift + V (most browsers and many apps) | ⌘ + Option + Shift + V |
Cutting removes the original; copying leaves it in place. No keyboard handy? Right-click the selection and choose Copy or Paste from the menu.
How to copy and paste on iPhone and Android
- Press and hold a word until it’s highlighted.
- Drag the handles to select more text.
- Tap Copy.
- Press and hold where you want the text and tap Paste.
On iPhone, a quick three-finger pinch also copies, and a three-finger spread pastes.
Paste something you copied earlier
Windows keeps a history of recent copies. Press Windows + V to open it and pick any item; the first time, Windows asks you to turn the feature on. Many Android keyboards, including Gboard, have a clipboard button with recent copies too.
To copy a picture of your screen instead of text, see how to screenshot on Windows or on Mac.
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