Properties: Command to delete individual property from the current note

Feature requests
1

Use case or problem

TL;DR
Users need a efficient way to delete individual properties using the keyboard.

When a file contains multiple or complex properties, or if a user mistakenly adds a property through the add file property command, how can they delete it? At present, they are required to switch to the mouse, precisely click on the property icon, and select “remove”.

In versions prior to 1.4.x, Users could move the cursor up and delete the property line directly without any mouse action.

Proposed solution

What I’ve noticed is that we now have commands related to properties, such as clear file properties. However, the clear file properties command is only practical when a user has a few properties at a time. When a file contains multiple complex properties, using clear file properties can be problematic.

Current workaround

If I’m committed to maintaining a full keyboard workflow, I would use the command to open in the default app, edit the property line in another application, and then switch back to Obsidian. It’s a convoluted process, but it does allow for a full keyboard operation.

1 Like
2

On MacOS, I can use Cmd-Delete to delete a property. I assume Ctrl-Delete would be the Windows or Linux equivalent.

Also works to shift select multiple ones (with the keyboard) and delete them all at once.

2 Likes
3

Ahh. Great to learn that! Thanks for the tip.

In macOS, the standard shortcut for deleting a file is Command + Delete, which sends the file to the Trash. Conversely, in Windows, it’s Ctrl + Delete, moving the file to the Recycle Bin. For user familiarity and consistency, it would be beneficial if software shortcuts align with these system defaults.
Aligning software keyboard shortcuts with system defaults can greatly enhance user experience.

On the other hand, when typing on a macOS system, the shortcuts Ctrl-p/n/b/f are convenient for cursor movement. However, Ctrl-p doesn’t allow movement to property lines. Yet, regardless of cursor placement, using the add file property (shortcut command + ;) can add a property effortlessly.

4

It does that in Finder, but in text it deletes everything from the insertion point to the start of the line.

2 Likes
5

Thank you for highlighting that.

The difference in certain functionalities, like the one you mentioned in comparison to Finder, is another way to show the properties are different concept and may need a better way to manipulate.

Currently, Obsidian offers the delete current file command for file. Given this, wouldn’t it be more intuitive to introduce a delete current property command for properties? Relying on the cmd+delete shortcut at property can be misleading.

Appreciate the insight.

6

Cmd+Backspace is only available for macOS. But you can also press the “Delete” key on your keyboard to delete the focused property.

1 Like
7

While the suggestion for a delete key command is understandable, it’s worth noting that default keyboards on both iMac and MacBook Pro lack a dedicated Delete key; they only provide a backspace. This absence further complicates the user experience and underscores the need for an intuitive command like delete/select file property.

Furthermore, users can add a property in Obsidian through several methods:

  1. Clicking the Add Property button.
  2. Pressing Enter when the selection is on the Add property line.
  3. Using the command add file property with the default shortcut cmd + ;.

For symmetry and consistency in user experience, there should similarly be multiple methods available for deleting a property.

10

Doesn’t cmd-backspace work on mac? what are we missing?