Symbols, definitions
& references.

Find where a name is defined, see where it’s used, and rename it safely.

Symbol

A named element in code, such as a function or variable.

Definition

The code that establishes the element or supplies its behavior.

Reference

A use of that element, such as a function call.

Try it on real code.

Start with Go to Definition. Then find the uses or preview a rename.

Click the buttons to try this guided example. It does not run Python. The keyboard shortcuts in the reference below belong to VS Code.

hello.pyPython / guided example

def (name):

return "Hello, " + name

first = ("J.J.")

second = ("Sam")

label = "greet" # text, not a function use

def preview():

greet = "local label"

return greet # a different, local symbol

Follow the selected function.

The function call on line 4 is selected. Use the command buttons to follow this symbol.

greet has one definition and two calls in this example.

The quoted “greet” and the local variable inside preview() belong to different things.

Ready. Try Go to Definition to follow the call on line 4.

VS Code shortcut reference.

Platform

Default shortcuts for Mac. Place the editor cursor on the symbol first.
Command	Shortcut	Use it to…
Commands in this example
Go to Definition	`F12`	Reach the code that defines the symbol.
Find References	`Shift + F12`	Locate the symbol’s uses.
Rename Symbol	`F2`	Rename it and the uses the language service resolves.
More ways to navigate
Go to Symbol in File	`Cmd + Shift + O`	Jump to a named item in the current file.
Peek Definition	`Option + F12`	Inspect a definition without leaving your place.
Command Palette	`F1`	Find a command by its name.

Keymaps and language extensions can change what’s available. Some keyboards require Fn with function keys. Shortcut names may appear as “Show References” or “Go to References.”

The same name can mean different things.

A symbol is more than a word. Its scope — where the name belongs — tells the editor which definition and uses go together.

That’s why Rename Symbol can follow one relationship while a text search finds every matching spelling.

greet("J.J.")

Uses the function defined at the top of the file.

label = "greet"

Contains text. It doesn’t call or refer to that function.

def preview():
    greet = "local label"

Introduces a separate name inside another function.

You’re about to change a function. Which command shows where it’s used?

Choose a command to check your understanding.

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Official references · verified September 20, 2026

VS Code navigation Mac keymap Homelab wiki article

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