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Before you start
- Two harmless lines of text
- A document or text box where you can type
A clear way through this guide.
We’ll show you one step at a time. When you’re ready, press Done — next step. You can go back or take a break whenever you like.
5 steps · Your own pace
Copy and paste text on a computer
Step 1 of 5: Select the exact text
Click and drag across the words you want. Selected text usually changes background colour. Make sure you have selected the complete passage rather than placing the typing cursor inside it; the original remains in place when copied.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 2 of 5: Copy using your keyboard
Windows: hold Ctrl and press C once, then release both. Mac: use Command + C. Alternatively, right-click the selection and choose Copy if the app offers it. Copy alone does not visibly insert anything.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 3 of 5: Choose a safe destination
Open a practice document or another editable text box. Click where the copied text should appear. Avoid selecting existing text unless you want the paste to replace it; confirm the cursor position first.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 4 of 5: Paste and inspect
Windows: press Ctrl + V. Mac: press Command + V. Read the inserted text before sending or saving. Some apps keep the original formatting; use their paste options if the appearance needs changing.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 5 of 5: Undo a mistake
Use Ctrl + Z on Windows or Command + Z on Mac in an app that supports Undo. Cut removes the selection while copying keeps it. Copying something else replaces the clipboard content you were about to paste.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Take your time. Next marks this step done.
You’ve finished this guide.
Every step is complete. You can come back and practise again whenever you like.
Your small practice task.
Copy a short sentence into a practice document and undo the paste once.
Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.
A common question.
Why did nothing paste?
The selection may not have copied or the destination may not accept editing. Try again with a short word in a simple document.
Official help, if you need it.
These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.