A tmux cheatsheet puts every key binding at your fingertips — from creating and switching sessions to splitting panes and copying text. tmux (terminal multiplexer) lets you run multiple terminal sessions inside a single window, detach and reattach without losing work, and organize your workflow into windows and panes. This interactive reference covers all major tmux operations with one-click copy buttons.
Default prefix: Ctrl + b — press this before any key binding to activate tmux commands. Many users remap the prefix to Ctrl + a in ~/.tmux.conf.
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How to Use This tmux Cheatsheet
This interactive tmux cheatsheet gives you an instant reference for every key binding and command you need. Whether you are setting up a new development environment, navigating between sessions on a remote server, or learning tmux for the first time, every binding is searchable and copyable in one click.
Understanding the tmux Prefix
Most tmux key bindings use a prefix key followed by another key. The default prefix is Ctrl+b. For example, to create a new window you press Ctrl+b and then c. Terminal commands (like tmux new -s name) are typed directly in your shell without the prefix.
Sessions, Windows, and Panes
tmux organizes your work into three levels. A session is the top-level container — you can detach and reattach to sessions, keeping long-running processes alive even after you close your terminal. Each session contains one or more windows, which work like tabs and occupy the full terminal screen. Each window can be split into panes — subdivided terminal regions that let you view multiple shells side by side. This tmux key bindings reference covers all three levels.
Searching for Bindings
Use the search bar to instantly filter bindings. You can search by the key combination (e.g., Ctrl+b), by description (e.g., "split"), or by category. Results update live as you type. Click Clear or delete the search text to return to the full list. Use the category tabs — Sessions, Windows, Panes, Copy Mode, and Misc — to focus on specific areas.
Copying Bindings
Every binding card has a Copy button. Click it to copy the key binding or command to your clipboard, then paste it into your terminal or configuration file. The button briefly shows "Copied!" to confirm.
Customizing tmux
All default key bindings can be remapped in your ~/.tmux.conf file. A common customization is changing the prefix from Ctrl+b to Ctrl+a (similar to GNU Screen). You can also enable mouse support with set -g mouse on, use vi-style copy mode with setw -g mode-keys vi, and set a custom status bar. After editing your config, reload it with tmux source ~/.tmux.conf without restarting your session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tmux cheatsheet free to use?
Yes, this tmux cheatsheet is completely free with no signup, account, or payment required. All key bindings are available instantly in your browser.
Is my data safe when using this tool?
Absolutely. This cheatsheet runs entirely in your browser — no data is sent to any server. Your searches and usage are completely private.
What is the tmux prefix key?
The default tmux prefix key is Ctrl+b. You press it before any key binding to trigger a tmux command. Many users remap it to Ctrl+a (similar to GNU Screen) by adding 'set -g prefix C-a' to their ~/.tmux.conf file.
How do I split a pane in tmux?
Press Ctrl+b % to split the current pane vertically (side by side), or Ctrl+b " to split horizontally (top and bottom). You can then navigate between panes with Ctrl+b and the arrow keys.
How do I detach from a tmux session without closing it?
Press Ctrl+b d to detach from the current session. The session continues running in the background. You can reattach later with 'tmux attach -t name' or 'tmux a' for the most recent session.
What is the difference between tmux windows and panes?
A tmux session contains windows, and each window contains one or more panes. Windows are like browser tabs — each window occupies the full terminal screen. Panes are subdivisions within a window that let you view multiple terminals simultaneously in a split layout.
How do I copy text in tmux?
Enter copy mode with Ctrl+b [, then navigate with arrow keys or vi-style keys. Press Space to start a selection, move to the end of your selection, then press Enter to copy. Paste with Ctrl+b ]. You can also enable mouse support in your tmux.conf for click-to-select.
How do I reload the tmux configuration without restarting?
Run 'tmux source ~/.tmux.conf' in your terminal, or press Ctrl+b : to open the command prompt and type 'source ~/.tmux.conf' then Enter. This applies all configuration changes to the current session without killing it.