# performKeyEquivalent(with:) Implemented by subclasses to respond to key equivalents (also known as keyboard shortcuts). ``` func performKeyEquivalent(with event: NSEvent) -> Bool ``` ## Parameters `event` The key-down event object representing a key equivalent. ## Return Value if `theEvent` is a key equivalent that the view handled, if it is not a key equivalent that it should handle. ## Discussion If the view’s key equivalent is the same as the characters of the key-down event `theEvent`, as returned by [`charactersIgnoringModifiers`](/documentation/AppKit/NSEvent/charactersIgnoringModifiers), the view should take the appropriate action and return . Otherwise, it should return the result of invoking `super`‘s implementation. The default implementation of this method simply passes the message down the view hierarchy (from superviews to subviews) and returns if none of the view’s subviews responds . --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)