Setting up keyboard shortcuts in DaVinci Resolve made easy

In this guide, I will show you how to efficiently set up keyboard shortcuts (Shortcuts) in DaVinci Resolve to optimize your workflow. Shortcuts are crucial for a fast editing process and help you save time while working on your projects. Let's get started!

Main Takeaways

• You can view and customize existing Shortcuts.
• There are specific ways to set new Shortcuts.
• You can import shortcuts from Apple Final Cut Pro X.
• It is essential to regularly save and export your Shortcuts.

Step-by-Step Guide

First, I want to show you where you can find the existing Shortcuts. When you right-click on a clip, the most important key combinations already appear. You can also hover over the tools and check the available Shortcuts at the end of the button names. For example, F9, F10, and F11 are already displayed as Shortcuts.

To start setting up your own Shortcuts, navigate to "DaVinci Resolve" in the upper left corner of your screen and select "Keyboard Customization." A new window will open where you can make all the necessary adjustments.

The Keyboard Customization window may seem overwhelming at first, but it is well-structured. At the top, there is an overview of the keys already assigned, represented by light grey keys. Dark grey keys are not yet assigned and are available to you.

When setting Shortcuts, it is important to pay attention to the keys you select. Note that using special keys like the Windows key can lead to unintended commands as they often trigger system commands. Instead, choose keys that do not cause conflicts.

If you want to use a Shortcut that consists of multiple keys, such as "Ctrl + D," you can easily check this by pressing the keys simultaneously. This way, you can see if this Shortcut is already in use. If you are unsure, simply press "Ctrl" and then click on another key.

If you want to change an existing Shortcut or add a new Shortcut, you can simply click on the corresponding key. If the key already has a Shortcut, you can remove it by clicking the "X" on the right side.

To set a new Shortcut, select the key and press the desired combination simultaneously. If the box turns red, the new Shortcut will be accepted. This way, you can make your individual adjustment at any time.

In the right-hand area of the window, you will find additional categories and commands that you can customize. Here you can search for different commands by looking in the subgroups for the corresponding commands or display all commands with e.g. "Edit".

If you only want to see the commands that already have Shortcuts, you can choose this filter option. By checking the "Unassigned" area, you will find all commands that do not yet have a Shortcut assigned. Here you can add new Shortcuts.

Another helpful feature is the ability to adopt Shortcuts from Apple Final Cut Pro X. If you already have experience with this software, you can simply import the Shortcuts by clicking on the corresponding option. This makes your transition easier.

To save your custom Shortcuts, you can create a new preset. Click on the three dots at the top right and select "Save as New Preset." Give your preset a meaningful name and save it.

For data backup purposes, I recommend regularly exporting your settings. This protects you from losing your Shortcuts in case of a computer problem. To export, click again on the three dots and choose "Export Preset."

If you want to use the Shortcuts on another PC as well, you can save the preset on your USB stick and later import it by clicking on the three dots again and selecting "Import Preset."

Don't forget to click on "Save" before closing the window, otherwise your changes will be lost!

Summary

In this guide, you have learned how to create, edit, and save your own keyboard shortcuts in DaVinci Resolve. Customizing the shortcuts allows for a more efficient editing process and significantly simplifies your workflow. Use the features generously to personalize your settings and work more effectively.