Windows shortcuts for selecting tools

[mattd73uk]

Hi,
Am choosing between Songwriter 2012 and Sibelius First on Windows (8.1). It's a frustrating time! Both products have clearly been worked on for a long time, but have bizarre gaps in basic functionality.

1) With Songwriter 2012, how do I keyboard select tools? I.e. what key can I press to select the Simple Entry, HyperScribe or Chord tools? I don't think it's possible.

2) *Just using the keyboard* (which FYI has no numeric keypad) on a Piano/Vocal sheet, once in Simple Entry or HyperScribe mode, how do I move to the 3rd bar/measure on the base clef and start entering notes?

Thanks
Matt

[miker]

Welcome to the Forum.

You can use a macro program to set up shortcut keys. On the Mac, I use either iKeys or the Mac's own shortcut key function.

You can maneuver around with the arrow keys, in conjunction with (I believe) the CMD key to shift staves.

You should consider purchasing a USB numberpad. They're cheap, and it's almost a necessity for simple entry.

[mattd73uk]

Thanks for your response.
Matt