How to set up the Hotkey Window in iTerm2

The hotkey window is one of the most useful features of iTerm2. It is a floating window that slides down from the menubar when summoned by a hotkey you can configure.

To enable the hotkey window, open iTerm2, click on the iTerm2 menu item in the menubar, and click “Settings...”

Once in settings, click on the “Keys” tab, then the “Hotkey” tab and then click “Create a Dedicated Hotkey Window…”

In the next dialog you need to configure either a hotkey or a double-tap key. There are some other options you can configure here as well, but nothing else is required. Click “OK” to close the dialog.

Now you have the hotkey window activated. In any app you can use your hotkey or double-tap key to bring up your terminal and continue wherever you left off.

One quick note: iTerm2 needs to be open for the hotkey to work.