Keyboard shortcuts

Fern docs include built-in keyboard shortcuts for navigation, search, and interactive features.

Interactive elements

ActionShortcut
Move focus between interactive elementsTab
Move focus backward between interactive elementsShift + Tab
Activate buttons and expandable sectionsEnter or Space
Close open dialogs, panels, and the API playgroundEscape
Toggle Ask AI panelCommand + / (macOS)
Ctrl + / (Windows/Linux)
Toggle API playground/explorerCtrl + `

The Command/Ctrl + / shortcut is different from the single / key which opens the regular search dialog.

ActionShortcut
Navigate to the previous or next pageCommand + ← / → (macOS)
Alt + ← / → (Windows/Linux)
Scroll to top or bottom of pageCommand + ↑ / ↓ (macOS)
Ctrl + ↑ / ↓ (Windows/Linux)

Some browsers may intercept these shortcuts for back/forward history navigation.

ActionShortcut
Open search dialogCommand + K (macOS)
Ctrl + K (Windows/Linux)
Open search dialog when focus isn’t in a text input field/ (forward slash)

The / shortcut won’t work when typing in an input field, textarea, or contenteditable element.

Within the search dialog:

ActionShortcut
Navigate between search resultsArrow keys
Select a search resultEnter

Troubleshooting

If keyboard shortcuts aren’t working:

  • Browser conflicts: Some browsers use the same shortcuts for their own features (e.g., Command + ← / → for history navigation).
  • Operating system conflicts: Your OS may intercept certain keyboard combinations. Check your system keyboard settings.
  • Focus in input fields: The / shortcut won’t work when typing in a text field. Use Command/Ctrl + K instead.
  • Extension conflicts: Browser extensions may override keyboard shortcuts. Try disabling extensions.