Many people spend too much time navigating manually using a mouse within GitHub. In fact, GitHub is designed with various “shortcuts” that can save you significant time. In 2025, with increasingly rich features, navigation efficiency is key to productivity.
Here are 10 secret tips and keyboard shortcuts to work faster on GitHub.
1. Quick Navigation with the “T” Key
Are you in a repository and want to search for a specific file? Simply press the T key on your keyboard. GitHub will open an instant file search that allows you to find any file just by typing its name.
2. Jump to Line with the “L” Key
While reviewing code, press the L key to jump directly to a specific line. Very useful when you get an error report on a specific line.
3. Online Editor Shortcut with the ”.” (Dot) Key
This is a favorite “hack” for many developers. Press the . key while in any repository to instantly open a web-based editor (VS Code) in your browser. You can perform quick edits without needing to clone to your local computer.
4. Command Palette Search with “Ctrl+K” (or Cmd+K)
Similar to VS Code, GitHub now has a Command Palette. Press Ctrl+K to search for actions, navigate to specific pages, or switch between repositories very quickly.
5. Linking Issues in Commits
Use the hash sign followed by the issue number (e.g., #12) in your commit messages or PRs to link tasks automatically. Use keywords like fixes #12 to close the issue automatically when the code is merged.
6. Creating a Permalink for Code Lines
Click on the code line number, then press the Y key. GitHub will change the browser URL into a permanent permalink. Use this when sharing code references so the link doesn’t change even if there are future updates.
7. Instant Dark Mode
Want to protect your eyes? Press Shift+V to quickly switch between different views or go into display settings to activate an elegant Dark Mode.
8. Filtering Notifications with “S”
On the notifications page, press S to mark a notification as “Saved” or postpone it so you can stay focused on your main tasks.
9. PR Review Shortcuts
When reviewing a Pull Request, use the N key to jump to the next comment and P to go back to the previous comment.
10. Using GitHub CLI
Use your terminal to interact with GitHub via gh cli. You can create PRs, check Actions build status, and manage issues without leaving the terminal.
Why is Efficiency Important?
For us at digitalsitepro, technical efficiency means we can deliver results faster for our clients. We master our tools well so we can focus more on providing creative and strategic solutions for your business.
Great technology is technology that helps you work less but produce more.
Want a website built with efficiency and high quality standards? Consult with our team.