How to Delete Files on a Mac: A Complete Guide

Free Up Space on Your Mac: A Comprehensive Guide to Deleting Files

Your Mac's storage space is limited, so regularly deleting unnecessary files is crucial. This guide covers various methods to remove files from your Mac, including bypassing the Trash, deleting files in use, identifying large files, and handling locked or hidden files.

Simple File Deletion Methods

Deleting files on a Mac is straightforward. Use any of these methods:

• Drag and drop to the Trash icon in the Dock.
• Control-click and select "Move to Trash."
• Select the file and press Command (⌘) Delete.

Remember, files in the Trash still occupy space. Empty the Trash to permanently delete them.

Deleting Files Directly (Without Using the Trash)

For quicker deletion, bypass the Trash (use with caution!):

• Hold Option and select File > Delete Immediately.
• Press Option Command (⌘) Delete.

Your Mac will prompt confirmation before permanently deleting the file.

Deleting Shortcuts

Shortcuts can consume space. To remove them:

1. Locate the shortcut on your desktop.
2. Drag it to the Trash.

Deleting Multiple Files

To delete multiple files simultaneously:

1. Open Finder.
2. Select files using Command while clicking each one.
3. Drag the selected files to the Trash.

Finding and Deleting Large Files

Free up significant space by identifying and deleting large, unnecessary files:

1. Click the Apple logo, select "About This Mac."
2. Go to the "Storage" tab and click "Manage."
3. Select "Documents" and use the "Large Files" tab or "File Browser" to view file sizes.
4. Select and delete unwanted files.

Deleting iOS Backups

Old iOS backups can consume considerable space. Delete them if you no longer need them:

1. Click the Apple logo, select "About This Mac."
2. Go to "Storage," click "Manage," and select "iOS Files."
3. Select and delete unwanted backups.

Deleting Locked Files

To delete a locked file:

1. Select the file in Finder.
2. Control-click, choose "Get Info," or press Command (⌘) I.
3. Uncheck "Locked." Then delete as usual.

Deleting Hidden Files

Hidden files can clutter your hard drive. To reveal them:

1. In Finder, open your Macintosh HD folder.
2. Press and hold CMD Shift . (period).

This reveals hidden files. Repeat in Applications, Documents, and Desktop folders. Delete as usual.

Deleting Files in Use or Stuck

If a file is in use or won't delete:

1. Close all apps and files.
2. Restart your Mac.
3. Boot into Safe Mode (hold Shift during startup).
4. Log in as an administrator.
5. Boot into Recovery Mode (Command (⌘) R), open Disk Utility, and run First Aid.
6. (Optional) Disable and re-enable System Integrity Protection (SIP) via Terminal in Recovery Mode (commands: csrutil disable and csrutil enable).

Consider using a specialized app cleaner for stubborn applications.

Deleting Specific File Types

• Word Documents: Locate the document in Finder and drag it to the Trash.

• Photos: Open the Photos app, right-click the photo(s), and select "Delete Photo" or "Delete Photos."

• Downloads: Open Finder, select the Downloads folder, and drag unwanted items to the Trash.

Restoring Deleted Files

Most deletion methods move files to the Trash, allowing restoration. Even after emptying the Trash, data recovery specialists may be able to help. For safe and thorough deletion after restoration, consider using a specialized uninstaller.

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