How do I open the slash command menu in Notion?

Type a forward slash (/) at the start of an empty line or anywhere in a block. A menu appears with every block type and command. Keep typing to filter it, for example /todo or /table, then press Enter.

What is the difference between Cmd and Ctrl shortcuts?

On macOS the modifier key is Cmd; on Windows and Linux it is Ctrl. The shortcuts are otherwise identical. Use the platform selector so every shortcut shows the correct key for your machine.

How do I turn an existing block into another type?

Select the block by pressing Esc, then type a slash command, or hover the block and use the six-dot handle then Turn into. Markdown triggers like # or - only convert empty blocks as you type at the start.

Do markdown shortcuts work everywhere in Notion?

Markdown triggers such as # for a heading or - for a bullet work at the start of an empty block. Inline markdown like wrapping text in asterisks for bold also works while typing. They do not retroactively convert text you have already styled.

Are these shortcuts the same on the Notion mobile app?

Mobile relies mostly on the slash menu and the formatting toolbar rather than keyboard chords, so many desktop shortcuts do not apply. This reference targets the Notion desktop app and web client where a physical keyboard is available.

Notion Keyboard Shortcuts

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Notion is fastest from the keyboard: the slash menu builds any block, markdown triggers format as you type, and a handful of chords move blocks and pages around. This reference collects the shortcuts that matter and shows the right keys for your operating system.

How it works

Each shortcut is stored with a Mod placeholder that renders as Cmd on macOS and Ctrl on Windows or Linux, so the same entry is correct on every platform. The search box matches against the action description, the category, and the rendered key combination, and the category selector limits the list to one group. Markdown and slash entries are triggers you type at the start of a block rather than held chords — for example # then Space makes a Heading 1, and / opens the command menu.

Tips and examples

To convert a paragraph you already wrote, select it with Esc and type a slash command, since markdown triggers only fire on empty blocks.
Cmd/Ctrl + \ toggles the sidebar — handy for distraction-free writing.
Typing [[ or @ lets you link to another page inline without leaving the keyboard.
Use Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + Up/Down to reorder blocks without dragging.

Shortcuts can vary slightly between the desktop app, the web client, and platform releases. When in doubt, open the slash menu and read the hint shown next to each command.