There are some apps that are so useful you never want to feel like you’re actually using them. They fall into the “set it and forget it” category.
I’m referring to text expander apps
While macOS does have a built-in option for text expansion it’s woefully limited by comparison to the other options available.
Text Expanders monitor your keyboard based input and when they spot something you have configured to be changed they change it. It’s really that simple. There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a text expander including the aptly named Text Expander, my personal app of choice Typinator, or the free options of Raycast or Alfred.
The powerful and fun part is the uses to which you put your text expander app, including:
Fixing Typos
Using Shortcuts to Insert Repeatedly Used Content
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Emojis đź‘Ť
Email Sign-offs
Getting Smart
Going beyond the basics means getting smart with more complex situations.
My most ambitious configuration is triggered by a single keyword. It displays a dialog box with a drop-down containing the 27 different callout types available in Obsidian. It’s much easier choosing the one I want from a predefined list rather than trying to recall the precise name of the one I need in the moment. Additionally it allows me to specify a title for the callout and finally positions the cursor at the exact spot to begin typing.
Just that single use saves me hours each week
If you’ve never tried a text expander now’s a great time to start.
Even if you have it’s always worth checking your current workflow and adding a few more timesaving expansions!