Switching between spaces in OSX is pretty simple already with the default shortcuts. Simply hold down ctrl and press directional keys. Recently more intuitive methods have emerged by using apps new like jitouch, that create simple gestures for both the magic mouse and multi-touch trackpads to easily switch spaces.
But what if you don’t have a newfangled magic mouse or multi-touch trackpad? Well I may have a solution for you, warranted you have a full sized keyboard.
The Solution
Example of insanity.
The solution is to simply map the numerical pad to it’s corresponding space, which sounds pretty simple right? However since spaces are numbered in a nice ascending pattern and the numerical pad in who ever thought of this pattern should die* we will have to perform a little number dyslexia. ( *I do realize it makes perfect sense, and is just a flipped vertically ascending pattern. )
So in order to switch to a space without bringing up the grid Spaces view simply life your hand up from the keyboard or mouse and press the corresponding space on the numerical pad. Personally I feel this is more efficient for those moments one is using a mouse right handed, so your delight may vary.
First
Simply go to your Keyboard System Pref pane.
Second
Click the Keyboard Shortcuts tab and then Expose & Spaces from the left column.
Depending on how many spaces you are currently using your keyboard shortcuts may vary. Since I’m using a grid of 3×3 for my spaces it maps perfectly to the 3×3 grid presented by the numeric pad.
When assigning the shortcuts make sure to use the numerical pad only.
For those using the same amount of spaces here is my mapping.
For those using a different amount, FSM have mercy on your soul.
Test it out!
Watch as productivity increases, impressed bosses give raises, pets become confused and dizzy, and mother-inlaws grow astonished!
In Conclusion
This “solution” does have adverse affects as you lose access to your numerical pad’s regular functionality of entering massive amounts of data into spreadsheets, which I’m sure most iMac users do constantly.
I can see this possibly becoming some sort of little modal menubar application where regular numerical pad functionality is restored, but lack the coca skill to make it so.
Hope you find this useful.