If you are shopping online and need to convert Euros to US Dollars, or if you are reading a recipe and need to convert cups to milliliters, you do not need to open a web browser to search for a conversion tool. Your Mac has a powerful, instantaneous calculator built directly into its core operating system called Spotlight Search.
How to Access Spotlight Search
Spotlight is the central search engine for your entire Mac. You can access it from anywhere, regardless of what application you are currently using.
- Press the Command (⌘) + Spacebar keys on your keyboard simultaneously.
- A sleek search bar will instantly appear in the direct center of your screen.
Converting Currencies
Spotlight is connected to live internet data, meaning its currency exchange rates are always up to date.
To convert currency, simply type the amount and the currency symbol (or abbreviation) directly into the search bar. For example, type:
50 EUR to USD or simply €50
Before you even press Enter, Spotlight will immediately display the converted amount in your local currency directly below the search bar. It will also provide a list of other common currencies (like British Pounds or Japanese Yen) for quick reference.
Converting Measurements and Weights
Spotlight understands natural language, making unit conversions incredibly fast and intuitive.
To convert a measurement, type the amount and the unit you have, followed by the unit you want. For example:
- Distance: Type
15 miles in kmto instantly see the result in kilometers. - Weight: Type
200 lbs to kgto see the exact conversion in kilograms. - Volume: Type
4 cups to mlor1 gallon in liters. - Temperature: Type
75F to Cto instantly convert Fahrenheit to Celsius.
Once you have your answer, simply press the Esc key on your keyboard to dismiss the Spotlight bar and instantly return to whatever you were doing.