Conquer the "Shortcut Not Found" Error on Mac

Have you encountered the cryptic error message “errordomain=nscocoaerrordomain&errormessage=could not find the specified shortcut” on your Mac? This message indicates that macOS is unable to locate a keyboard shortcut you’ve assigned to a specific action within an application. Fret not, for this guide will equip you with the knowledge and steps to troubleshoot and rectify this issue, restoring your customized shortcuts and enhancing your Mac productivity.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Error

The error message “errordomain=nscocoaerrordomain&errormessage=could not find the specified shortcut” can arise due to various reasons. Let’s delve into the most common culprits:

Mistyped Shortcuts: Human error is a frequent cause. You might have inadvertently mistyped the key combination when assigning a shortcut, introducing an incorrect modifier key (like Command, Option, Shift, or Control) or selecting the wrong main key.
Conflicting Shortcuts: macOS might be encountering a conflict between shortcuts. It’s possible that another application or the system itself has a shortcut assigned to the same key combination you’ve designated for your desired action.
Application Issues: In some instances, the error may stem from a temporary glitch or bug within the application you’re using. Corrupted application files or outdated software can also contribute to shortcut malfunction.
System Preferences Misconfiguration: Occasionally, macOS system preferences related to keyboard shortcuts might become misconfigured, leading to the error message.

Resolving the “errordomain=nscocoaerrordomain&errormessage=could not find the specified shortcut” Error

Now that we’ve identified the potential causes, let’s explore a methodical approach to resolving the error:

1. Double-Check Your Shortcut:

Verify the Key Combination: Meticulously examine the shortcut you’ve assigned for the action. Ensure you haven’t accidentally pressed the wrong key or modifier key. Pay close attention to details like using the correct Command key (⌘) instead of the Option key (⌥).
Review Application Settings: Navigate to the application’s preferences and locate the section dedicated to keyboard shortcuts. Compare the listed shortcut for the desired action with the one you believe you assigned. This step helps confirm any discrepancies.

2. Address Conflicting Shortcuts:

System Preferences: Open System Preferences and navigate to the “Keyboard” section. Select the “Shortcuts” tab. Here, you’ll find a comprehensive list of keyboard shortcuts categorized by application and function. System-wide shortcuts are also displayed. Scrutinize this list for any conflicting shortcuts that might be interfering with your custom one. If you find a clash, consider reassigning one of the shortcuts to resolve the conflict.
Application-Specific Shortcuts: Many applications allow you to customize their keyboard shortcuts within their own preferences. Explore the application’s settings to identify and potentially modify conflicting shortcuts within that specific program.

3. Reassign the Shortcut:

If you’ve confirmed a typo or identified a conflict, it’s time to reassign the shortcut.

Application Preferences: Locate the keyboard shortcut settings within the application you’re using. Find the action you want to assign a shortcut to and select it. Choose a new key combination that is comfortable for you and doesn’t conflict with existing shortcuts.
System Preferences (Optional): If the issue persists and the conflicting shortcut resides within the system-wide preferences, you can attempt to modify it in System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts. However, exercise caution when altering system-wide shortcuts, as you might inadvertently affect other functionalities. It’s recommended to prioritize reassigning the application-specific shortcut first.

4. Restart the Application:

Sometimes, a simple application restart can resolve temporary glitches that might be causing the shortcut error. Close the application completely and relaunch it. Test the shortcut again to see if the issue persists.

5. Update the Application:

Outdated applications can harbor bugs that affect functionality, including keyboard shortcuts. Check for any available updates for the application you’re experiencing the error with. Download and install the latest update to ensure you’re running the most recent bug-fixed version.

6. Reset Keyboard Shortcuts:

As a last resort, if none of the previous steps alleviate the problem, consider resetting your keyboard shortcuts to their default settings. This approach should be undertaken with caution, as it will erase any custom shortcuts you’ve meticulously assigned.

Application Preferences: Most applications offer an option to reset their keyboard shortcuts to factory defaults. Consult the application’s documentation or explore its preferences for this option.
System Preferences: System-wide keyboard shortcuts can also be reset to defaults. Navigate to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts.

Advanced Troubleshooting and Additional Tips

The methods outlined above should address the majority of “errordomain=nscocoaerrordomain&errormessage=could not find the specified shortcut” errors. However, if you’re still encountering issues, here are some advanced troubleshooting techniques and additional pointers:

7. Check for Corrupted Application Files:

In rare instances, corrupted application files might hinder the proper functioning of keyboard shortcuts. Reinstalling the application can potentially rectify this issue. It’s advisable to back up any important data within the application before proceeding with a reinstall.

8. Safe Mode Diagnostics:

If the error seems system-wide or affects multiple applications, consider booting your Mac into Safe Mode. Safe Mode performs a basic system check and loads only essential kernel extensions. By launching into Safe Mode, you can temporarily disable third-party software or kernel extensions that might be causing conflicts.

Restart your Mac while holding down the Shift key. This will boot your system into Safe Mode.
Once booted, test the problematic shortcut within the application. If the shortcut functions correctly in Safe Mode, it suggests a conflict with third-party software or extensions. You can then systematically disable them one by one to isolate the culprit.
Restart your Mac normally to exit Safe Mode.

9. Third-Party Utility Conflicts:

Certain third-party utilities, particularly those that modify system behavior or keyboard shortcuts, can introduce conflicts. If you have recently installed any such utilities, temporarily disable them and test the shortcut again. If the issue disappears, the disabled utility might be the cause. Consider contacting the developer for support or seeking alternative software.

10. macOS Update:

Running an outdated version of macOS can lead to various compatibility issues, including problems with keyboard shortcuts. Ensure you’re running the latest macOS update available for your system. Updates often contain bug fixes and performance enhancements that might address the shortcut error.

11. Disk Utility Repair:

Disk inconsistencies or errors can sometimes cause unexpected behavior within macOS. Utilize Disk Utility, a built-in macOS application, to verify and repair your disk permissions.

Open Disk Utility (located in Applications > Utilities).
Select your startup disk from the sidebar.
Click the “First Aid” tab.
Click the “Run” button to initiate the repair process.

12. Create a New User Account:

Corrupted user account settings can also contribute to the shortcut error. Creating a new user account allows you to test if the issue is specific to your current user profile.

Navigate to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
Click the lock icon and enter your administrator password when prompted.
Click the “+” button to add a new user.
Choose an appropriate account type (e.g., Administrator) and set a username and password.
Log out of your current account and log in to the newly created account.
Test the problematic shortcut within the application. If the shortcut functions correctly in the new user account, it suggests a problem with your original user profile settings. You can then migrate your data selectively to the new account or troubleshoot your original profile further.

13. Seek Professional Help:

If you’ve exhausted all the aforementioned solutions and the error persists, consider seeking assistance from Apple Support or a qualified Apple technician. They can provide more in-depth troubleshooting or identify underlying hardware issues that might be causing the problem.

Additional Considerations and Best Practices

Maintain Application Updates: Regularly updating your applications ensures you benefit from bug fixes and performance improvements that might address shortcut-related issues.
Utilize System Restore (if applicable): If you suspect the error arose after a recent system update or software installation, consider using System Restore (available on some macOS versions) to revert your Mac to a previous state where the shortcut functioned correctly.
Organize Your Shortcuts: Assigning logical and consistent shortcuts can enhance your productivity and workflow. Avoid overly complex key combinations that might be difficult to remember or execute.
Backup Your Data: Before undertaking any troubleshooting steps that involve modifying system settings or reinstalling applications, it’s crucial to back up your important data. This ensures you don’t lose valuable information in case of unforeseen complications.

By following these comprehensive troubleshooting methods, informative tips, and best practices, you should be well-equipped to resolve the “errordomain=nscocoaerrordomain&errormessage=could not find the specified shortcut” error and regain control over your customized keyboard shortcuts on your Mac.