How to Undo in PyCharm: Shortcut Guide

Understanding how to undo in PyCharm is essential for seamless coding. Whether it’s reversing a typo or recovering a deleted section, undoing actions saves time and frustration.
PyCharm, a robust Integrated Development Environment (IDE) by JetBrains, offers various methods to manage and revert changes efficiently.
In this article, you’ll learn how to utilize keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl + Z for undo and Ctrl + Shift + Z for redo, explore the Local History feature, and even handle undo actions in version control systems like Git. By mastering these techniques, you’ll become proficient in navigating your codebase with confidence.
We’ll cover:
- Keyboard commands for undo and redo
- Using Local History to restore previous versions
- Steps to undo Git commits
By the end, you’ll have a solid grasp of undo actions in PyCharm, making your coding process more efficient and less error-prone.
How To Undo In PyCharm: Quick Workflow
To undo changes in PyCharm, you can follow different methods depending on whether you want to revert uncommitted changes, undo the last commit, or revert changes from a specific commit. Here’s a detailed guide:
Undoing Uncommitted Changes
If you want to discard changes made to files that haven’t been committed yet, you can do the following:
- Open the Commit Tool Window: Press
Alt+0
. - Select Files: Choose one or more files that you want to revert.
- Rollback Changes: Right-click on the selected files and select Rollback from the context menu, or press
Ctrl+Alt+Z
. This will discard all changes made to the selected files since the last commit.
Undoing the Last Commit
To undo your last commit while keeping the changes in your working directory:
- Open the Git Tool Window: Press
Alt+9
and switch to the Log tab. - Select the Last Commit: Find and right-click on the most recent commit at the top of the list.
- Choose Undo Commit: Select Undo Commit from the context menu.
- Select a Changelist: In the dialog that appears, choose a changelist to move your changes into (you can use the default changelist) and click OK. This action will effectively remove the commit, but keep your changes available for further editing.
Reverting Changes from a Specific Commit
If you need to revert specific changes made in a past commit:
- Open the Git Tool Window: Press
Alt+9
and go to the Log tab. - Select a Commit: Click on the commit containing the changes you want to discard.
- Revert Selected Changes: In the Changed Files pane, right-click on the specific file you wish to revert and select Revert Selected Changes from the context menu. This will create a new commit that undoes those specific changes.
Additional Tips
- If you have pushed your commits to a remote repository, be cautious as undoing commits can lead to complications in collaboration with others.
- For more complex scenarios like merging issues, consider using command line Git commands if PyCharm’s UI options are limited.
- You can also use PyCharm’s Local History feature by right-clicking on a file and selecting Local History > Show History to view and revert to previous versions of your code.
Undoing Changes

Undo Functionality Across IDEs
Undoing Actions in PyCharm (Ctrl + Z)
When working in PyCharm, the undo functionality is straightforward. By pressing Ctrl + Z, any recent change can be undone instantly. This keyboard shortcut is critical for quick corrections, letting you reverse your last action and get back on track swiftly. It’s especially useful for coding environments where efficiency and speed are key.
Undoing Actions in IntelliJ IDEA (Ctrl + Z)
Similarly, in IntelliJ IDEA, the undo command operates with Ctrl + Z. This function maintains consistency across JetBrains’ IDEs, so muscle memory kicks in regardless of which development environment you’re using. Whether it’s editing code or altering project configurations, the undo action steps in to save the day.
Selective Undo in VersionPress
VersionPress takes undo to another level. With selective undo, you can roll back specific changes without affecting others. This granular control is a game-changer, allowing selective reversions with minimal disruption. Unlike the “one size fits all” undo, selective undo tailors the reversal to your needs.
Situations Where Undo is Critical
Reverting Small Mistakes in Real-Time
In real-time coding, small mistakes are inevitable. The undo function proves invaluable here. A misstep in coding, an accidental keystroke – all can be swiftly corrected. Reverting these minor errors in real-time keeps the momentum going and minimizes downtime.
Recovering Content After Accidental Deletion
Accidentally deleting content is a common issue. The undo action serves as a safety net, allowing recovery of lost code or text immediately. Instead of redoing all the work from scratch, you simply bring back what was lost with a quick command.
Practical Limitations of Undo
When Undo Won’t Work (e.g., IDE Closure, Conflicts)
However, there are times when the undo command hits a wall. If the IDE closes unexpectedly or if there are conflicting changes, the undo functionality may not work as intended. In these scenarios, you’ll need alternative strategies like reverting to backups or manually resolving conflicts.
Redoing Changes
Overview of Redo Functions
Redoing Actions in PyCharm and IntelliJ IDEA (Ctrl + Shift + Z)
When you need to revert an undo, the redo functionality steps in. In PyCharm and IntelliJ IDEA, pressing Ctrl + Shift + Z redoes the last undone action. This keyboard shortcut reinstates the changes you reversed, keeping the workflow fluid. It mirrors the undo command but acts as a time machine moving forward. Every action can be re-applied almost effortlessly.
Use Cases for Redo
Reapplying Recently Undone Actions
Mistakes happen. Sometimes, undoing an action isn’t the right move. With the redo function, those recently reversed steps can be reapplied. Maybe you changed your mind or realized the initial change was correct. Redo puts that content right back where it was. It’s like undoing your undo, retrieving that last edit with precision.
Ensuring Workflow Continuity
Redo maintains continuity in development. No need to re-enter code manually or recreate recent tasks. It smoothens the process, ensuring that your workflow remains uninterrupted. PyCharm’s redo feature, used alongside how to undo in PyCharm, ensures both backward and forward movement in your code. Just like controllers in a game, both commands keep the project steady.
Rollback Functionality
Understanding Rollbacks in VersionPress
Difference Between Undo and Rollback
Undo and rollback aren’t the same beasts. Undo reverts the most recent changes. Rollback, though, is broader. Think of it as a full-scale retreat—restoring the project as a whole to a previous state. Where undo might just fix a typo, rollback takes your entire project back to where it was at a specific point in time, correcting deeper, more ingrained issues.
Restoring Previous States of a Project
Restoring previous states is where rollbacks shine. With VersionPress, you can bring back every bit of code, every configuration, as it was at any given snapshot point. It’s like traveling back to the specific checkpoint in your project’s timeline, ensuring everything is precisely as it used to be. Ideal for major overhauls or when things go awry.
Benefits of Rollback
Ensuring No Permanent Loss of History
One of the biggest benefits of rollback is the assurance that no history is lost permanently. Every change, every save point, is recorded, so you can revert back without stress. It’s like having a safety net that catches every version of your project, offering peace of mind that you can always reclaim past work.
Easy Reversion of Rollback Actions
Rolling back isn’t a one-way street. If you realize the rollback didn’t quite solve your problem, or you need some elements from the current version back, reversion is simple. This flexibility means less stress about making the initial rollback decision, knowing it can be undone if needed.
Scenarios Requiring Rollbacks
Major Errors or Misconfigurations
When major errors or misconfigurations occur, rollback is your best friend. An incorrect global setting or a misstep in critical logic can break your project. Instead of manually hunting for the bug, rolling back to a known good state can be faster and more reliable, restoring functionality instantly.
Reverting Site-Wide Changes
In scenarios where site-wide changes cause unforeseen issues, rolling back can revert everything to a stable version. Whether it’s a botched deployment or a plugin conflict, a rollback can fix wide-reaching problems quickly, saving time and headaches in diagnosing and correcting each issue manually.
FAQ on How To Undo In PyCharm
How do I undo my last action in PyCharm?
To undo the last action in PyCharm, you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Z. This command will reverse the most recent change you made in the code editor. You can also go to the Edit menu and select Undo. It’s straightforward and quick.
Can I undo multiple actions at once in PyCharm?
Yes, PyCharm allows you to undo multiple actions. By repeatedly pressing Ctrl + Z, you can step back through your code modifications, undoing each previous action sequentially. Keep hitting the shortcut until you’ve reverted the changes you need.
How do I redo an action in PyCharm after undoing it?
To redo an action after undoing, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + Z. This command re-applies the actions you previously undid. You can also find the redo option in the Edit menu under Redo.
Can I undo changes in the Local History of PyCharm?
In PyCharm, the Local History feature allows you to revert changes. Right-click within the editor, select Local History, and then choose Show History. From there, you can browse different versions and restore to an earlier state.
How do I access the Local History in PyCharm?
Accessing Local History requires a simple step. Right-click on the file in the project explorer or within the code editor, select Local History, and then choose Show History. You’ll see a timeline of changes you can browse and revert if needed.
Is it possible to undo changes in Git through PyCharm?
Yes, you can undo Git changes directly through PyCharm. Open the VCS menu, go to Git, and select Undo Commit or Revert. You can also use the Local History to manage changes before committing them to Git.
What happens if I undo a commit in PyCharm?
When you undo a commit in PyCharm via the VCS menu, the changes are reverted to the state before the commit. This action does not delete your work but stages it back as uncommitted changes, allowing you to edit before committing again.
How do I undo a deleted file in PyCharm?
To undo a deleted file, open the Local History. Right-click the parent folder where the file was located, select Local History, and then choose Show History. From the list, find the deleted file and restore it directly.
Can I undo changes made by a code refactoring in PyCharm?
Yes, you can undo changes made by code refactoring. Simply use the Ctrl + Z shortcut to revert the refactoring steps. PyCharm’s comprehensive undo functionality ensures you can step back through refactoring actions just like any other changes.
How do I undo a specific change without affecting other code changes?
To undo a specific change without disrupting other modifications, use the Local History. From Local History, you can pick and choose specific changes to revert, giving you precise control over your code’s state. This selective undo provides a nuanced approach to code management.
Conclusion
Mastering how to undo in PyCharm can significantly enhance your productivity and coding accuracy. The undo and redo functions, accessible via Ctrl + Z and Ctrl + Shift + Z respectively, allow you to reverse or reapply recent changes effortlessly. Leveraging the Local History feature offers a detailed timeline to revert specific actions or restore deleted files, thus providing robust control over your development process. By understanding how to utilize these tools—whether it’s undoing commits in version control, reverting code refactoring, or selectively undoing changes—you can maintain an efficient and error-free coding environment.
Adding features like undo capability in PyCharm, combined with a solid grasp of keyboard shortcuts and file modifications, equips you to handle code with precision. Take advantage of these functionalities to enhance your coding experience and streamline your workflow. By the end of this article, you should feel confident in navigating undo actions within PyCharm and maintaining seamless code edits.
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