Why Raycast Is a Must-Have Mac App for Productivity

If I could only download one productivity app to help me get more done, it would be Raycast. This Spotlight alternative is the command center for my Mac, transforming how I work with its lightning-fast search, customizable shortcuts to everything, and other powerful features.

4

Block Distracting Apps With Raycast Focus

One of the most effective ways to boost productivity isn’t about doing more in less time—it’s about making the time you have count by focusing on what truly matters. Distractions are one of the biggest challenges you must overcome to achieve this. Whether it’s mindlessly scrolling social media or getting sidetracked by low-priority tasks, staying focused can feel like an uphill battle.

I use Raycast Focus to block distracting apps and websites on my Mac, creating a distraction-free environment to tackle my most important work.

Here’s how to use Raycast Focus:

1. Visit Raycast’s official website to download and install it on your Mac.
2. Open Raycast using its default keyboard shortcut Option + Space and type Start Focus.
3. Set your goal, for example, Write a blog post, choose a duration, and add the apps or websites you want to block.
4. Hit Enter, and a small timer will appear, signaling the start of your focused session.

Once the session is active, any attempt to open a blocked app or website will trigger a Raycast notification, gently nudging you back on track. It’s a simple yet powerful way to stay focused and make the most of your time.

3

Speed Up Your Workflow With System-Wide Shortcuts

Raycast’s keyboard-first approach makes navigating your Mac faster, eliminating the need to constantly reach for your mouse. However, one of the reasons Raycast is better than Spotlight is that you can use it to create system-wide shortcuts, giving you control over everything from basic system features like adjusting volume to launching your favorite apps in an instant.

Here’s how to set up shortcuts using Raycast:

1. Open Raycast, type Extensions, and hit Enter.
2. Select and enable the System extension by clicking the box next to it.
3. Look for a relevant command (e.g., Empty Trash or Toggle Bluetooth) and record a hotkey for it.

You can also create shortcuts for built-in and third-party apps. Simply search for the app in the same menu and assign a hotkey. For example, I use Option + R to open Reminders instantly.

Related

This App Lets Me Easily Use My Mac Without a Mouse

Use it when your mouse or trackpad stops working.

In addition to setting keyboard shortcuts, you can use Raycast to create Quicklinks to launch anything faster—whether it’s a specific folder on your Mac, a website, or even a Spotify playlist.

Here’s how to create Quicklinks using Raycast:

1. Open Raycast and search for Create Quicklink.
2. Enter a name, link, and the app you’d like to use to open it, then press Command + Enter to save. For example, I named one MUO and added its website link.
3. Anytime you want to open it, just launch Raycast and type the name.

With shortcuts and Quicklinks, Raycast can become your command center, giving you quick access to all your frequently used apps, folders, and websites.

2

Supercharge Your Productivity With Raycast Extensions

Raycast is an extremely versatile application, as it allows you to connect your favorite tools in one place. This versatility is one of the reasons I can’t start using a new Mac without installing apps like Raycast because it transforms how I work by integrating with the apps I rely on daily.

To get started, open Raycast and search for Store. Here, you’ll find a vast library of community-built extensions for popular tools like Asana, Trello, Slack, Arc, and many more. These extensions let you perform tasks faster and more efficiently without ever leaving Raycast.

For example, I use the Asana extension to quickly create, view, and manage tasks directly from Raycast. Instead of falling prey to context switching, I can stay focused and productive, all within a single interface.

Having quick access to frequently used apps in the menu bar is a game-changer for my productivity. It helps me improve my capture habit by externalizing tasks and ideas into my trusted system before they slip away—whether it’s jotting down a note or setting a reminder. With Raycast, I’ve added apps like Reminders, Notes, and Spotify to my menu bar for instant access.

Here’s how to add the Reminders app to your menu bar:

1. Open Raycast and search for Store.
2. Search for Apple Reminders and install the extension.
3. Go to the Extensions page and search for Apple Reminders.
4. Select Menu Bar Reminders and click Activate on the right side of the page.

Once activated, you should find Reminders in your menu bar, ready for quick access. This simple yet powerful feature keeps your most important tools just a click away, helping you stay organized. 


Raycast is so much more than a Spotlight alternative. It’s a customizable productivity powerhouse that adapts to your workflow, helping you work smarter and faster. It’s simply a must-have app for anyone looking to boost their productivity on their Macs.