GitKraken Desktop Documentation

GitKraken Desktop Tips | Productivity Shortcuts & Power Features

Last updated: March 2026

This page highlights GitKraken Desktop features that help developers move faster across everyday Git work. Use these tips to set up profiles, navigate with the Command Palette and shortcuts, connect integrations, manage complex history, and customize the Commit Graph when you want a more efficient workflow.

Requirements and limits

  • This page is a curated overview that links to feature-specific documentation; use the linked pages for full steps and edge cases.
  • Some tips reference paid features, including multiple Profiles and certain integrations.
  • Integration capabilities vary by Git provider and plan, especially for Azure DevOps and self-hosted services.
  • Shortcut, Command Palette, and UI behavior may differ by operating system or repository context.

How to set up profiles

Separate work and personal repositories—or manage multiple accounts with Profiles.

GitKraken Desktop showing how each profile can be linked to a different GitHub account, enabling users to manage separate work and personal identities with distinct credentials.
Each profile can save a unique integration connection.

Each profile retains its own Git config, preferences, and open tabs.

Note: Access to multiple profiles requires a GitKraken subscription.


How to use the Command Palette

The Command Palette helps you navigate GitKraken quickly with keyboard-driven actions.

Using the GitKraken Command Palette to execute actions like opening repositories or launching editors, demonstrating how it streamlines common Git tasks from a single keyboard-driven interface.
Use the Command Palette to launch repositories, open editors, and more.

Common actions:

Core

  • Undo, Redo

File

  • Create File, Delete File, Open File, Edit File, View File
  • Discard all changes, Stage all changes, Unstage all changes

How to use keyboard shortcuts

Speed through tasks with keyboard shortcuts.

Action Mac Windows/Linux
Open keyboard shortcuts / Ctrl/

How to cherry pick multiple commits

Select multiple commits using Cmd/Ctrl or Shift, then right-click and select Cherry pick X commits.

GitKraken Desktop showing a context menu for cherry picking multiple selected commits, illustrating how users can apply specific changes across branches without merging full history.
Select multiple commits from the graph to cherry pick them together.

You can reorder, squash, drop, or rename commits before completing. Learn more in Interactive Cherry Pick.


5. Integrate with Git Services

Connect GitKraken Desktop with GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket, and Azure DevOps to streamline cloning, remotes, and PR workflows.

GitKraken Desktop integration settings for Azure DevOps, illustrating how connecting a Git provider enables faster repository access and enhanced workflow automation.
Connect your Git provider to speed up repository access.

Plan notes:

  • Community users are limited to public repositories on GitHub/GitLab/Bitbucket.
  • Azure DevOps integration requires a GitKraken subscription.
  • Self-Hosted services require a paid plan that supports self-hosted integrations.

Benefits:

  • Create repos and configure .gitignore or license files
  • Clone via remote repo list
  • Manage remotes and pull requests

How to hide and solo branches

Control the Commit Graph display with Hide and Solo options.

Hide branch icon

Hide

Click the eye next to a branch or right-click to hide it. Hidden branches show a gray icon.

Solo branch icon

Solo

Right-click a branch and select `Solo` to show only that branch. Repeat to solo/unsolo other branches using the orange icon.


How to view file history and blame

View file history and blame by clicking a commit and right-clicking a file.

Context menu in GitKraken Desktop showing options to view file history and blame, helping users trace changes and identify contributors to specific lines of code.
Right-click a file to view its history or blame.
File history panel alongside line-by-line commit diff in GitKraken Desktop, explaining how each commit modified a specific file to clarify the evolution of content and aid troubleshooting.
Switch between commit diff and file view with blame.

How to open the GitKraken Desktop terminal

Run Git commands with the GitKraken Terminal. Click in the toolbar or use Alt/Opt + T.

Set a default terminal from Preferences > External Tools.


How to resize the Commit Graph

Hover over the graph’s colored lines and drag to resize.

GitKraken commit graph being resized horizontally to help users focus on complex branching structures, improve readability, and navigate dense commit histories with greater precision.
Adjust the graph view to focus on the information you need.
Have feedback about this article? Did we miss something? Let us know!
On this page