Overview
| Mode | Shortcut | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Typewriter | Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+T | Keeps cursor line centered |
| Distraction-Free | Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+D | Dims inactive paragraphs |
| Composition | Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+C | Full-screen, hides all UI |
Typewriter Mode
Keeps your current line vertically centered in the editor, so you're always writing in the middle of the screen rather than at the bottom.
How It Works
- The cursor line stays at approximately 40% from the top
- Extra padding is added to allow centering at document edges
- The view scrolls automatically as you type
Enabling Typewriter Mode
- Press Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+T
- Or go to View > Typewriter Mode
- Or toggle in Settings > Editor
When to Use
- Long writing sessions where you want consistent eye position
- Drafting new content where you're focused on forward progress
- Reducing neck strain from looking at the bottom of the screen
Distraction-Free Mode
Dims all paragraphs except the one you're currently editing, helping you focus on the immediate text.
How It Works
- Inactive paragraphs fade to 30% opacity
- The paragraph containing your cursor stays fully visible
- As you move between paragraphs, focus follows
Enabling Distraction-Free Mode
- Press Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+D
- Or go to View > Distraction-Free Mode
- Or toggle in Settings > Editor
Affected Elements
These elements dim when not active:
- Paragraphs (<p>)
- Headings (H1-H6)
- List items
- Block quotes
- Code blocks
When to Use
- Editing and revising existing content
- When you need to focus on sentence-level work
- Reducing visual noise during line editing
Composition Mode
Full-screen takeover that hides all interface elements for maximum immersion.
How It Works
- Editor expands to fill the entire window
- Binder, Inspector, toolbar, and footer are hidden
- Content is centered with comfortable margins
- A subtle hint shows how to exit
Entering Composition Mode
- Press Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+C
- Or go to View > Composition Mode
Exiting Composition Mode
- Press Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+C again
- Or press Escape
A hint at the bottom-left reminds you: Composition Mode (Shift+Cmd+C to exit)
What Gets Hidden
- Binder (section navigation)
- Inspector panel
- Editor header and footer
- Toolbar
- Find bar
When to Use
- Deep writing sessions without interruption
- When you want to eliminate all visual distractions
- Drafting scenes that require full immersion
Combining Modes
You can use multiple modes together:
- Typewriter + Distraction-Free: Centered cursor with dimmed surroundings
- Composition + Typewriter: Full-screen with centered cursor
- All three: Maximum focus with centered, dimmed, full-screen writing
Toggle each independently using their shortcuts.
Mode Persistence
- Typewriter and Distraction-Free modes persist between sessions
- Your preferences are saved and restored when you reopen the project
- Composition mode does not persist (you start in normal view)
Compatibility Notes
With Split Pane
Entering Composition mode automatically exits Split Pane mode. They are mutually exclusive.
With Verkado Mode
Entering Composition mode exits Verkado (multi-section) mode. Return to single-section editing first if you want to use Composition mode.
With Find Bar
The Find bar is hidden in Composition mode. Exit Composition mode to search.
Settings
Configure default states in Settings > Editor:
- Typewriter Mode: Toggle default on/off
- Distraction-Free Mode: Toggle default on/off
Tips
- Try each mode separately first to understand how it feels
- Typewriter + Distraction-Free is a popular combination for drafting
- Use Composition mode for timed writing sprints
- Exit Composition when you need to reference other sections
- Keyboard shortcuts are fastest for toggling during writing flow