Copy-and-paste functions constitute a staple of all computers, including Mac. Mac stores the copied text, image, document or file on a clipboard waiting for you to paste elsewhere. If you have encountered the issue of copy-and-paste acting up on Mac, this article will answer your descriptions with proven solutions for frozen clipboard or related issues.
Rebooting Mac only takes a quick fix in some cases. You need to implement long-term solutions to get the issue off your chest. At times the issue stems from a keyboard defect rather than the clipboard. To detect the root problem, copy text and try to transfer it into Finder. This should signal whether the copy-paste functionality requires thoughtful solutions.
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Part 1. How to Execute Copy-and-Paste on Your Mac
#1. The Basics of Copy And Paste on Mac
To copy the content, select it and hold down Command + C. If you want to cut anything and insert it into the clipboard, hit Command-X. Next, navigate to the destination then hit Command + V. On the other hand, you can transfer anything from one place to another without copying, hit Command + Option + V rather than Command + V.
Once the item is pasted to its new destination, it stays on the clipboard so you can repeat the process over and over. Mac’s clipboard has the capacity to store one file at a time. Dart a glance at the items of the clipboard freely by hitting the Finder icon nestled in the dock, selecting the Edit Menu, and then choosing Show Clipboard.
#2. Copy And Paste Two Items Simultaneously
Mac allows you to copy two pieces from one location and paste elsewhere with the help of a secondary clipboard. Having two clipboards means you have another trick up your sleeve. You don’t have to switch between apps.
Simply copy one with Command + C and the other with Control+K. To paste, go for the default Command+V shortcut to replicate the first item, and hold down Control+Y to tug the second item to paste it into a document.
Part 2. Fix Copy And Paste Acting up on Mac? Quick Fixes
Method 1. Fix A Jammed Clipboard Using Activity Monitor
Activity Monitor offers a killer bullet for Mac troubleshooting. Luckily, it’s designed as a cure for copy paste-related problems. You have to quit and re-launch Activity Monitor. Here’s how you address the issue with the aid of this handy tool.
Step 1. Shut down the Mac apps with copy/paste problems.
Step 2. Launch Activity Monitor from Applications>Utilities>folder. Alternatively, press Command and Spacebar keys to insert the app’s identity in the Spotlight search field.
Step 3. Enter “pboard” in the search box. Once the pboard process appears, choose it and hold down the X located in the toolbar before clicking on Force Quit.
Step 4. Shut down Activity Monitor.
Launch the target app again. Try implementing the copy-paste feature again to see whether you have pulled off this trick.
Method 2. Troubleshoot the Clipboard Using Terminal
For macOS connoisseurs who have mastered the Terminal app down to fine art, you can resort to it to fix the copy-and-paste obstacle. The terminal allows you to shut down the process behind clipboard functioning.
Step 1. Tap Applications>Utilities and then double-click the Terminal to open it.
Step 2. Enter “killall pboard” in the command line.
Step 3. Press the Enter/Return key.
Step 4. Try to copy and paste again to see if the problem persists or not.
