Apple Logic Pro 8 - Manual (Page 158)

158 Chapter 8 Basic Operations
Working With Key Commands
You can execute nearly every Logic Pro function with a key command or MIDI message.
Whenever this manual mentions a key command, this refers to a function, command,
or option that can be accessed by either: a computer keyboard keystroke (or keystroke
combination—such as Option-R—which opens the Recording project settings), or a
MIDI message.
Use of key commands, rather than the mouse, can greatly accelerate your workflow.
Throughout this manual, you will encounter a number of practical usage examples,
often in step form, that include the default key command assignments for particular
functions.
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Tip: It is recommended that you make use of these default key commands while
getting to know the application, by following the steps outlined in the guide. Not only
will this help you to remember them, but will also aid in developing good (and faster)
working practices from the outset.
Once you have a good understanding of Logic Pro fundamentals, and how you like to
work, you can freely assign your own key command set—for functions that you use
most often.
The Key Commands window is used to assign Logic Pro functions to computer
keyboard keys, or to MIDI messages. This allows you to completely customize the
application to suit your own working style.
Note: A number of functions are only available as key commands. Some of these may
not have a default key command assignment. In such cases, you will need to create a
suitable key command, in order to make use of the function.
If you’re new to Logic Pro, and would like to get “hands on” with the application, please
skip ahead to “
Working With Tools ” on page 166. You can always return to the following
section when you’re ready to create or customize your own key command set, but this
isn’t essential to know before using Logic Pro.
Saving Key Commands
Your personal key assignment sets are stored in a separate file located in ~Library/
Application Support/Logic/Key Commands. You should:
 Make a backup of your user-defined key command set at another hard disk location
before changing any key commands.
 Make a backup on removable media (a CD-ROM or USB flash drive, for example), or
on a networked Macintosh (using Bonjour) or a .Mac account (see “ Sharing Logic Pro
Data Over a Network ” on page 625). These back up options make it easy to transfer
your key commands when using Logic Pro on another computer.