When using Git Bash on Windows, many users find themselves unsure how to perform simple copy-paste operations—especially if they’re used to Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V from other terminals or editors. Git Bash uses a different method by default, but once you know how it works, it’s easy and efficient.
This guide explains how to copy and paste text in Git Bash, using both mouse and keyboard shortcuts.
🧭 What Is Git Bash?
Git Bash is a command-line interface provided by Git for Windows. It provides a Unix-like shell environment on Windows, enabling developers to run Git commands and use Bash scripting tools.
🔹 How to Copy and Paste in Git Bash
✅ Option 1: Using the Mouse (Right-Click Menu)
📋 To Copy from Git Bash:
- Click and drag to highlight the text in the Git Bash window.
- Right-click anywhere in the window.
- Select “Copy” from the context menu.
📋 To Paste into Git Bash:
- Right-click anywhere in the Git Bash window.
- Select “Paste” from the context menu.
✅ Option 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts (Windows 10+)
Recent versions of Git Bash (when using the Windows Console Host) support standard keyboard shortcuts:
- Copy:
Ctrl + Shift + C - Paste:
Ctrl + Shift + V
Note: If the above shortcuts don’t work, make sure “Use Ctrl+Shift+Copy/Paste” is enabled in Git Bash settings (see below).
🔧 Enabling Keyboard Shortcuts (If Not Working)
- Click the Git Bash icon in the top-left of the window.
- Select “Options” or “Properties”.
- In the Options tab, check:
- ✅ “Use Ctrl+Shift+Copy/Paste”
- ✅ “Enable line wrapping selection” (optional for clean copying)
- Click OK to save settings.
🚀 Pro Tip: Use a Better Terminal
For a smoother experience, consider running Git Bash inside a more modern terminal, such as:
- Windows Terminal (Download)
- ConEmu or Cmder
These support standard copy-paste behavior and customizable keybindings.
✅ Summary
| Task | Method |
|---|---|
| Copy | Highlight + Right-click > Copy |
| Paste | Right-click > Paste |
| Shortcut Copy | Ctrl + Shift + C |
| Shortcut Paste | Ctrl + Shift + V |
| Settings | Right-click > Options > Enable shortcuts |
🧠 Final Thoughts
Copying and pasting in Git Bash may not feel intuitive at first, but with the right settings and a few shortcuts, it becomes second nature. Whether you’re moving Git commands or editing scripts, mastering this saves time and effort.
