These are "cheats" or interface helpers that make the game easier to manage.
| Action | Default Key | Notes |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Hud Toggle | F1 | Cycles through HUD displays (Full, Mini, None). |
| Manual / Tutorial | F1 (Hold) | Opens the scenario manual. |
| Track Monitor | F4 | Shows a schematic of the track ahead. |
| Switch/Junction | F3 | Brings up the 2D map to change switches. |
| Timetable | F6 | Shows floating text labels for station stops. |
| Labels Toggle | Ctrl + F6 | Toggles destination markers and signal numbers. |
| Pause | Esc or P | Pauses the simulation. |
| Quicksave | F2 | Opens the save menu (you can save mid-scenario). |
| Fast Travel | Tab (Click on map) | In the F3 map, click a location and press Tab to warp the camera. | train simulator classic keyboard controls
Before we dive into the complex world of isolator switches and pantographs, let’s master the basics of getting a train moving (and, more importantly, stopping it). These are "cheats" or interface helpers that make
You cannot drive what you cannot see. These keys let you navigate the world. | Key | Function | Notes | |
If you only memorize six keys, make it these. They control the primary forward motion of virtually every train (diesel, electric, or steam).
| Action | Key | |--------|-----| | Pause | Esc or Pause/Break | | Couple/uncouple (with mouse) | C (when near) | | Drop/detect track monitor | F3 | | Open map | F5 (cycle modes) | | Toggle HUD | F4 | | Show speed limits | F6 | | Show signals | F7 | | Show station info | F8 | | Full screen | Alt + Enter | | Reset simulation | Ctrl + R | | Quit scenario | Ctrl + Q |
| Key | Function | Notes |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| 1 | Cab View | Primary view. Use Shift + 1 to reset the camera position. |
| 2 | Head-Out View | Camera positioned out the side window. |
| 3 | Trackside / Chase View | External camera. Shift + 3 often creates a "drone" style camera. |
| 4 | Passenger / Yard View | Used to inspect the train or platforms. |
| 5 | External Map | Free camera mode. WASD moves the camera. |
| 8 | Switch to Ahead/Behind | If in a rear cab, this swaps the view direction. |
| F1 | HUD Interface | Cycles through HUD styles (Full, Simple, Hidden). |
| F4 | Passing Points | Shows the 2D track map. |
| F5 | On-screen Keyboard | Displays active controls on screen (Great for learning). |