How to Create Your First Custom iPhone Shortcut

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Open the Shortcuts application

   Launch the Shortcuts app from your Home Screen or App Library. Tap the plus (+) icon located in the top-right corner of the screen to initialize a new, blank shortcut.

   Note: If you do not see the app, swipe down from the center of the screen and search for 'Shortcuts'.
2. 1 min

   Name your shortcut

   Tap the downward-facing arrow next to 'New Shortcut' at the top of the editor. Select 'Rename' and enter a clear, descriptive name for your automation, such as 'Launch Focus Music'.

   Note: Use a name that Siri can easily recognize for voice-activated execution.
3. 2 min

   Add your first action

   Tap the blue 'Add Action' button in the center of the screen. Use the search bar to find a specific task, such as 'Set Volume' or 'Open App'. Select the desired action to add it to the editor.

   Note: The editor displays suggested actions based on your usage history.
4. 1 min

   Adjust action parameters

   Tap the faded text within your added action to modify its variables. For example, in a 'Set Volume' action, tap the percentage number to adjust the specific volume level required for the shortcut.

   Note: Variables are context-sensitive and change depending on the action selected.
5. 1 min

   Execute and verify the workflow

   Tap the 'Play' icon in the bottom-right corner of the editor to trigger the shortcut. Confirm that the actions perform exactly as configured within the system.

   Note: If an error occurs, the offending action will be highlighted in red.
6. 30 sec

   Add the shortcut to your Home Screen

   Tap 'Done' to save. Press and hold the shortcut tile in the main menu, then select 'Share' followed by 'Add to Home Screen'. Confirm the icon and name, then tap 'Add'.

   Note: You can customize the shortcut icon color and glyph from the share sheet before adding it to the Home Screen.