Understanding the trigger key
Loop uses a trigger key to function:- For radial menu: Hold down the trigger key and move the cursor in the desired direction
- For keyboard shortcuts: Press the trigger key together with another key to activate specific actions
- Configuration: Set in the Behavior tab of Loop’s settings
- Flexibility: Can consist of one or multiple modifier keys
Many users prefer remapping their Caps Lock key to function as their Loop trigger, as it’s easily accessible and rarely used for its original purpose.
Setting Caps Lock as your trigger key
Caps Lock is an ideal trigger key because of its prominent location and infrequent use. There are multiple methods to configure Caps Lock as your trigger key:- System Settings (recommended)
- Hyperkey app
- Karabiner Elements
This method remaps Caps Lock at the system level using macOS’s built-in keyboard settings.
Access Modifier Keys
In the Keyboard Shortcuts window, select the Modifier Keys tab at the bottom of the sidebar.
Repeat for all keyboards
If you have multiple keyboards connected (built-in, external, etc.), repeat this remapping process for each keyboard. Use the keyboard selector dropdown to switch between keyboards.
Why Right Control?
By remapping Caps Lock to Right Control (instead of Left Control), you maintain the ability to use standard Control-based shortcuts with your left hand while using your remapped Caps Lock key for Loop.Alternative trigger keys
While Caps Lock is popular, you can use any modifier key or combination as your trigger:Single modifier keys
Single modifier keys
Common single modifier options:
- Right Control (⌃): Good if you’ve remapped Caps Lock
- Right Option (⌥): Accessible but may conflict with some shortcuts
- Right Command (⌘): Easy to reach but conflicts with many system shortcuts
- Function (Fn): Available on most Mac keyboards
Multiple modifier combinations
Multiple modifier combinations
Combining multiple modifiers reduces conflicts with existing shortcuts:
- ⌃⌥ (Control + Option)
- ⌃⇧ (Control + Shift)
- ⌥⇧ (Option + Shift)
- ⌃⌥⇧⌘ (All modifiers - Hyper key)
Testing your trigger key
After configuring your trigger key:- Open any application window
- Hold down your trigger key
- Move your cursor to see if the radial menu appears
- Try moving in different directions to test responsiveness
If the radial menu appears and responds to your cursor movement, your trigger key is configured correctly!
Next steps
Now that your trigger key is configured, explore Loop’s features:Explore Loop features
Learn about radial menu, keyboard shortcuts, cycles, and more