How To Organize Folders on Mac

Do you save your files and folders on your Mac?

In a remote work and study environment, it can be easy to duplicate folders and build digital clutter. Many don’t realize how clutter can get in the way of work until it becomes impossible to find files. Digital clutter can also bog down your system, further slowing your progress.

If you’ve experienced those problems, it may be time to organize your folders. Read on to learn how to organize folders on Mac.

Declutter Files

Declutter your device before organizing. Gather all the documents on the Desktop and keep them in a folder. Then, delete duplicate folders, discard unnecessary files, and clear your cache.

You can install third-party applications, too. It provides features you can use to make organizing mac folders fast and easy. Some applications allow you to set instructions and automate the process.

Decluttering is an effective way of maintaining organization in your Mac. Moreover, it can clear up some space and ensure fast processing speed.

Develop a File Naming System

When creating new folders, take the time to create a logical naming system for your files. The name must include the project name, version number, and a short description of the folder. Consider categorizing your files and folder, too.

For example, when saving financial documents, you can create folders and label them into these categories. Then, move all files to their specific folder.

You can organize your files and folders in order. Use numbers at the beginning of the filename followed by letters. It arranges and keeps your files in chronological order.

Using logical names for your files and folders makes it easier to find them with a search tool.

Create Folders

Start creating folders after identifying the file naming system to use.
Go to your Dock and select the Finder icon to open a window. Then, navigate to the area where you want to create a folder. Choose Desktop to save your files on the Desktop.

Select File and hit New Folder. You can use the keys to create your folder, too. Press the Shift, Command, and N keys at the same time. Input the name of the folder and hit Return to save.

Did you know that you can change the color and icon of your folder? Color coding your files and folders is another great way to organize your files! Check https://setapp.com/how-to/change-folder-color-or-icon-on-mac for more information.

Move Your Files

There are many ways you can move your files to their specific folder. However, the initial step starts with going to the Dock. Then, hit the Finder to access a window.

You can drag a single file to a specific folder. Click and hold down the Command key and select items if you want to move many files at once. Then, drag one of the selected files to the folder.

All selected files move to the folder if you continue to hold Command. You can transfer a window’s content to a specific folder, too.

Navigate the cursor to the left of the window title. Hold on until an icon shows up. Then, move the icon to the folder.

Merge Folders

You can merge identical or similar folders from different locations into one. Press and hold Option to move one of the folders to the location of the other. Then, click the Merge option when the dialog appears.

You can add folders to your Favorites, too. Open a new window and search for the folder to add in your Favorites. Then, drag it to the sidebar.

Using the Favorites prevents you from going through all items on your device to locate a single file.

Use Stacks

Mac comes with a helpful feature that keeps files organized. Stacks is an automated tool that groups documents on your Desktop. Program it with your preferred sorting and arrangement options before using it.

Control-click on the Desktop to program your Stack settings. The pop-up menu displays Sorts Stacks By or Group Stack By options to select. Then, choose the right setting from the submenu.

Go back to the Desktop to activate Stacks. Then, click View and select Use Stack. It organizes your Desktop files right after activation.

You can deselect the Use Stacks option to revert the Desktop organization.

Apply Tags on Your Files

You can apply tags to organize files and folders, too. Mac offers a feature where you can color-code items for a fast and easy search. You can add tags to files found on your Mac and iCloud drive.

Open a Finder window on your Dock. Control-click on files or folders you want to tag. Then, choose between pre-configured tags or create tags on your items.

There are different ways to find tagged files or folders. You can use the Spotlight search field or ask Siri to find the item.

Use Smart Folders

You can use Smart folders to find related items faster. It refers to a reference folder that collects items based on the search criteria. The Smart folder presents related files and directs you to their location.

You must open a Finder window to enable your Smart Folder. Then, hit File and New Smart Folder. Click + to access the drop-down menus that display several criteria.

Select the search criteria to add and click Save to create the folder. Then, you will find a Smart Folder that contains items that match the search criteria.

Save Files in iCloud

Use your iCloud drive to its fullest potential. It allows you to organize, sync, and back up your files. An iCloud drive is best for people with different devices as you can access files when logged in.

Go to the System Preferences on your device to enable the iCloud drive. Click the Apple ID option and iCloud. Then, check the box beside the iCloud drive to turn it on.

Hit Options and select the folders, files, and apps to sync with your device.

Learning How to Organize Folders on Mac

Now you know how to organize folders on Mac. With this guide, you’ll never have to worry about digital clutter ever again! Keep your files organized and beat those deadlines today!

Are you looking for more Mac tips? Check out our other blog posts to discover more!