How to insert templates with Typedesk

Typedesk gives you two main ways to find and insert a template: Quick Access and typed shortcuts.

Use Quick Access

Quick Access lets you search for a template without remembering its shortcut.

1. Click the field where you want the text to appear.
2. Press Alt+C on Windows or Option+C on macOS.
3. Search for the template by name or part of its content.
4. Select the template.
5. Complete any variables that appear.
6. Press Enter to insert the finished text.

Quick Access is especially handy when your template library has grown larger than your memory.

What is the Typedesk Super-shortcut?

Super-shortcut is an experimental way to find and insert a template without remembering its regular shortcut. When it is enabled, type two backslashes (\\) in a supported text field to open Quick Search. Start typing part of the template name, choose the correct result, and press Enter to insert it.

To enable it, open Typedesk Settings → Autofill settings and turn on Super-shortcut.

Because this feature is currently experimental, its availability or behavior may change in future versions.

What is the difference between Quick Access and Super-shortcut?

Quick Access opens Typedesk search with Alt + C on Windows or Option + C on Mac. Super-shortcut opens Quick Search while you are typing by entering two backslashes (\\). Both help you find a template by name, but Super-shortcut does not require a separate keyboard combination.

Use a typed shortcut

Each template can have a shortcut, such as ;hello or ;refund.

1. Click a supported text field.
2. Type the template's shortcut.
3. Add the configured trigger character, if your shortcut requires one.
4. Complete any variables.
5. Insert the finished template.

Typed shortcuts are supported by the desktop app and browser extension. When both are active, the browser extension defers shortcut insertion to the desktop app.

Change shortcut trigger characters

You can manage the characters that activate shortcuts:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select General.
3. Find Autofill triggers.
4. Add or remove the trigger characters you want to use.
5. Save your changes and test a shortcut.

For example, adding ; as a trigger lets you use shortcuts such as ;hello.

Which method should I use?

Use Quick Access when:

• You do not remember the exact shortcut.
• You want to search your template library.
• You use a large number of templates.

Use typed shortcuts when:

• You remember the shortcut.
• You want to insert a frequently used template quickly.
• You prefer to keep your hands on the keyboard.

Both routes lead to the same happy ending: less repetitive typing.

What happens when a template contains variables?

Typedesk opens the variable form before inserting the template. Complete the fields, review the result, and then insert the finished text.

What if shortcuts are not working?

First, try the template in a basic text editor. This helps show whether the issue is connected to Typedesk or to a particular website or application.

Then see Quick shortcuts are not working.