Create Custom Quick Actions in macOS 13 Shortcuts

Yes, you can easily create custom Quick Actions using the built-in Shortcuts app in macOS 13 Ventura. Quick Actions allow you to automate multi-step tasks—such as converting image formats, resizing media, extracting text, or creating PDFs—and access them directly from Finder, the Services menu, and the Touch Bar. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process of building, configuring, and running your own custom Quick Actions on macOS 13.

How to Create a Custom Quick Action

  1. Open the Shortcuts App
    Launch the Shortcuts app from your Applications folder, Spotlight, or Launchpad.

  2. Create a New Shortcut
    Click the Add (+) button in the top toolbar to open the shortcut editor. Name your shortcut in the top-left corner (for example, "Convert to PNG" or "Resize Image").

  3. Enable Quick Action Settings
    Open the Shortcut Details panel by clicking the Information (i) icon in the right-side sidebar. Check the box labeled Use as Quick Action.

  4. Define Your Inputs and Availability
    Once enabled, configure where and how the action operates:

    • Finder: Check this option to make the shortcut appear in Finder's preview pane and right-click context menus.
    • Services Menu: Check this to access the action from the menu bar under App Name > Services.
    • Input Types: Click on the input parameters at the top of the workflow area to specify what data triggers the action (e.g., Files, Folders, Images, Text, or PDFs). Set what happens when no input is provided.

  5. Build Your Workflow
    Search for actions in the right-hand action library and drag them into the editor window.

    • Ensure the first operational action accepts the Shortcut Input passed from Finder or selected text.
    • Add processing actions (such as Convert Image, Make PDF, or Run Shell Script).
    • Conclude with output actions if necessary, such as Save File or Show Notification.

  6. Test and Save
    Click the Run button (play icon) to test the workflow with sample inputs. When satisfied, close the editor; your changes are saved automatically.

How to Use Your Quick Action in macOS 13

  • From Finder: Select one or more compatible files, secondary-click (right-click) them, expand Quick Actions, and choose your shortcut.
  • From the Preview Pane: Enable the Preview pane in Finder (View > Show Preview). Your Quick Action will appear as a button beneath file details when a matching file type is selected.
  • From the Menu Bar: Highlight text or select an item, click the active application's name in the top menu bar, hover over Services, and select your action.