Shortcuts Cookbook

With the Shortcuts app, doing things on your devices becomes easier and faster so discover where to find them, make changes and create your own shortcuts from scratch

- DAVID CROOKES

SHORTCUTS ARE INTENDED S to make it easier to perform everyday tasks on your Apple devices. Ironic, then, that many users have taken one look at the Shortcuts app and felt that it looks rather complicated. In some respects it is: shortcuts can be so complex, they are almost like mini apps. But you don't need to get bogged down in the finer aspects of a shortcut to make use of them. Most are simple to create, and since lots are pre-made everyone can benefit.

WHY CAN'T I JUST STICK TO USING MY APPS?

There's absolutely nothing wrong in using your apps and devices in the manner to which you've become accustomed - that is, by launching different apps as and when you need them and by delving into the settings to make changes when required.

But if you use Shortcuts, you can get under the skin of those apps and settings and even bring the two together. You're effectively able to cherry-pick useful bits, whether that's a specific function or some personal data, and create powerful task automations that can be used with a tap or a Siri request. Shortcuts can become part of the Share menu too, allowing them to be run from other apps.

One thing is certain, you're not going to lose anything by taking a look at what Shortcuts has to offer (the app is free and if you can't find it on your Home Screen, you can download it from the App Store). At the very least, you will be able to view and select shortcuts which Apple has approved to see what's possible - a tap or click is all that's needed to run them. You can also take a look at how they're coded, viewing the different blocks. Once you've taken a look and gone through our guide, the possibilities will become much clearer. Just take your time and explore.