If you’ve recently switched to a Mac, you might be wondering where the backspace in Mac is located. Unlike Windows keyboards, Macs don’t have a key labeled “Backspace,” which can be confusing for new users. However, Macs do have a Delete key that functions similarly to the backspace key on a Windows PC, along with additional shortcuts to enhance your typing and editing experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how the backspace function works on Mac, different ways to delete text, useful keyboard shortcuts, and how to remap keys if needed.

Understanding the Backspace Key in Mac

On a Windows keyboard, the Backspace key erases the character to the left of the cursor. On a Mac keyboard, the Delete key performs the same function as Backspace on Windows. This key is usually located at the top right of your keyboard, near the function keys.

However, there is a difference between Delete (Backspace) and Forward Delete on a Mac:

• Delete (Backspace): Removes characters to the left of the cursor.
• Forward Delete: Removes characters to the right of the cursor.

Since Mac keyboards don’t have a dedicated Forward Delete key (except on extended keyboards), you’ll need to use a shortcut to achieve this function.

How to Forward Delete on Mac

If you’re looking to delete text to the right of the cursor, use the following keyboard shortcut:

• Fn + Delete (on newer MacBooks and compact keyboards)
• Control + D (an alternative shortcut)

These shortcuts allow you to remove text ahead of the cursor, similar to the Delete key on Windows keyboards.

Keyboard Shortcuts for Deleting Text on Mac

macOS provides multiple ways to delete text efficiently. Here are some useful shortcuts:

Shortcut	Function
Delete	Backspace (deletes the character to the left of the cursor)
Fn + Delete	Forward delete (deletes the character to the right of the cursor)
Control + D	Forward delete (alternative shortcut)
Option + Delete	Deletes the entire word to the left of the cursor
Command + Delete	Deletes the entire line of text

These shortcuts can speed up your workflow, especially if you work with a lot of text.

How to Remap the Backspace (Delete) Key on Mac

If you prefer to have a dedicated Backspace key or want to customize your keyboard, you can remap keys using macOS settings or third-party apps like Karabiner-Elements.

Using System Preferences:

1. Go to System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
2. Select Keyboard.
3. Click on Keyboard Shortcuts.
4. Look for Modifier Keys and reassign the Delete key to another function if needed.

Using Karabiner-Elements:

1. Download and install Karabiner-Elements.
2. Open the app and select Modify keys.
3. Choose the key you want to change (e.g., Delete) and assign it to another function.
4. Save your settings and test your new configuration.

This method is useful if you want a dedicated Backspace key similar to Windows keyboards.

Alternative Ways to Delete Text on Mac

Apart from keyboard shortcuts, you can also delete text using trackpad gestures and voice commands.

1. Trackpad Gestures (MacBook Users)

If you have a MacBook with a trackpad, you can use gestures for text deletion:

• Three-finger swipe left: Works in some apps to delete text.
• Tap and hold on a word: Use the on-screen menu to delete text.

2. Dictation and Voice Control

macOS allows you to use voice commands to delete text.

• Enable Dictation under System Settings > Keyboard > Dictation.
• Use phrases like “Delete that” to remove text while dictating.

FAQs About Backspace in Mac

1. Why doesn’t my Mac keyboard have a Backspace key?

Mac keyboards label it as Delete, but it functions the same as Backspace on Windows.

2. How can I delete words faster on Mac?

Use Option + Delete to remove an entire word in one go.

3. Can I use an external keyboard with a Backspace key on Mac?

Yes, most external keyboards with a Backspace key work seamlessly with Mac.

4. What’s the shortcut for deleting an entire line?

Use Command + Delete to erase an entire line quickly.

5. How do I forward delete on Mac without an extended keyboard?

Press Fn + Delete or Control + D to delete text to the right of the cursor.

Conclusion

Although Mac keyboards don’t have a dedicated Backspace key like Windows, the Delete key performs the same function. With additional shortcuts like Fn + Delete for forward delete and Option + Delete for removing entire words, you can efficiently edit text on macOS. If needed, you can remap keys for a more personalized experience.

By mastering these shortcuts and settings, you can navigate text quickly and improve your overall productivity on a Mac. Whether you’re a new Mac user or a seasoned pro, understanding how backspace in Mac works will enhance your typing and editing experience.