# Run an Apple Shortcut from your Mac app grid

CubbyPad includes your Shortcuts in search results, so you can find and run an existing workflow from the same field you use to open apps.

By [Rudra Satani](https://cubbypad.com/about/), maker of CubbyPad · 26 October 2026

## Give an existing workflow another entrance

A Shortcut can combine actions that you would otherwise repeat manually. CubbyPad lets you search for a Shortcut by name and run it from the result, alongside ordinary app search.

The workflow itself belongs to Apple’s Shortcuts app. CubbyPad provides the launching route; it does not automatically design, inspect or grant permissions to the actions inside that workflow.

## Test the Shortcut before relying on launcher access

1. Open the Shortcuts app and check the workflow you want to use.

1. Give it a name that is distinct from similar apps and other Shortcuts.

1. Run it there and resolve any permission or input questions.

1. Open CubbyPad and search for that name.

1. Choose the Shortcut result to run it.

## Remember what the workflow expects

Some Shortcuts need selected files, an input value or a permission prompt. Launching one from a search result does not remove those requirements. If it stops unexpectedly, inspect it in Shortcuts and check the action that is waiting.

Avoid naming several workflows almost identically when they perform different actions. A clear name helps you choose the correct one before it runs.

## Layouts can also fit an automated routine

CubbyPad layouts can be switched through Shortcuts as well. That lets an existing routine choose an arrangement suited to the next activity. Begin with a workflow you already understand and add the layout action only when it solves a real repeated step.

Published by CubbyPad’s maker. See [about CubbyPad](https://cubbypad.com/about/) for the author and product details. For corrections, [get in touch](https://cubbypad.com/contact/).

## Put it into practice.

[Guide

### Find apps, files and answers with search

Use names, initials, nicknames, sums and System Settings keywords. Run a Shortcut or open an app’s recent files from the same field.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/search/)[Guide

### Set up layouts, Focus and iCloud sync

Keep separate app arrangements, pair them with a Focus, and share them through your own iCloud Drive.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/layouts/)[Guide

### Choose how to open the app grid

Set up the keyboard shortcut, F4, a three-finger pinch, a hot corner, or the Dock and menu bar icons.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/opening/)

## More on search and keyboard.

[### Voice search and AI app search are different features

Voice search turns speech into a search query. Apple Intelligence task search suggests apps for what you want to do. Their permissions and requirements are different.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/voice-search-vs-ai-app-search-mac/)[### Open an app’s recent files from your launcher

Search for an app in CubbyPad and its recent files can appear underneath. Use that route when you want to return to a document rather than just launch an empty app window.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/open-recent-files-from-mac-app-launcher/)[### Keep Spotlight and CubbyPad on separate shortcuts

Command–Space can remain Spotlight while Shift–Command–Space opens CubbyPad. Test each route before changing the system assignment.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/keep-spotlight-and-cubbypad-shortcuts/)

## Make room for your apps.

Every feature. One-time purchase. Made for macOS 26.

[Find your plan](https://cubbypad.com/pricing/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/blog/run-apple-shortcuts-from-app-grid/