Paste is an operating system and programs action that allows you to copy an object or text from one location and place it to another location. For example, you could copy a URL sent to you by a friend in chat, e-mail, or over an IM and paste that URL into a web browser to visit the web page.
Tip: If the text, image, or other objects have not been properly copied to the clipboard, it cannot be pasted.
Cut copy and undo
The picture above is an example of how paste can be applied to tape in the real world. Like a pair of scissors, you can cut text, images, files, and other objects and if you wanted to paste what you've cut, you could use tape.
What is the keyboard shortcut key for paste?
Below is a listing of keyboard shortcuts for how you can paste in different operating systems. Keep in mind that when you use these shortcuts, the data is pasted where the cursor is currently positioned.
PC desktop and laptop = Ctrl + V or Shift + Ins
Apple desktop and laptop = Cmd + V
Google Chromebook = Ctrl + V
Tip: On many devices, you can also right-click where you want to paste and select Paste from the right-click menu.
Related pages
How to copy and paste.
Paste text without formatting.
How to copy text and images from a web page.
How do I copy and paste in an MS-DOS window?
2. Linux command, see the paste command page for additional information.
