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Are you tired of all your files being saved in the default location on your Mac? Do you struggle to find your files when you need them the most? If you answered yes to any of those questions, then keep reading because in this blog post we’ll be sharing with you how to change where files are saved on Mac.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Changing Where Files Are Saved on Mac
Mac computers come with a default location for saving files. However, this default location may not always be convenient for everyone. Sometimes you may need to save a file in a specific folder or location, and finding that location can be time-consuming and frustrating. But don’t worry, changing where files are saved on a Mac is a simple process once you know how.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we begin, there are a few things you should prepare for:
- Ensure that you have administrative access to your Mac.
- Know the location/folder where you want to save your files.
- Make sure that the location/folder is accessible and not hidden.
Method 1: Via the Finder Preferences
Step 1: Open the Finder application by clicking on the Finder icon located on your Dock or by using Spotlight search.
Step 2: Click on the "Finder" option located on the top left corner of the screen and select "Preferences".
Step 3: Click on the "General" tab.
Step 4: Under the "New Finder windows show" option, select "Documents" or any other location/folder where you want to save your files.
Step 5: Close the Preferences window.
Step 6: Now, when you open a new Finder window, it will open to the location/folder you selected.
Pros:
- Simple and easy method to change the default location.
- Can be done in a few clicks.
Cons:
- Does not apply to all applications on your Mac.
- Cannot set different locations for different file types.
Method 2: Via the Save Dialog Box
Step 1: Open any application that you use to create or edit files, such as Pages or TextEdit.
Step 2: Create a new document or open an existing one and make some changes.
Step 3: Click on "File" and select "Save" or "Save As".
Step 4: In the Save dialog box, navigate to the folder or location where you want to save your file.
Step 5: Once you’ve selected the location, click on the arrow next to the folder name and select "Use as Default" or "Add to Sidebar".
Step 6: Click on "Save" and close the application.
Pros:
- Allows you to set different locations for different file types.
- Applies to all applications used to create or edit files on your Mac.
Cons:
- Requires you to manually change the location every time you create or save a file.
Method 3: Via Terminal
Step 1: Open Terminal by using Spotlight search or by going to Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
Step 2: Type the following command in Terminal: defaults write com.apple.finder NewWindowTargetPath -string "path/to/folder" (Replace the path/to/folder with the actual location/folder where you want to save your files).
Step 3: Press Enter.
Step 4: Type the following command in Terminal: killall Finder and press Enter.
Pros:
- Allows you to set different locations for different file types.
- Can be done quickly if you’re comfortable with using Terminal.
Cons:
- Can be risky if you’re not familiar with using Terminal.
- Mistyping the commands can cause unintended results on your Mac.
Why Can’t I Change Where Files Are Saved on Mac?
1. You don’t have administrative access: Changing where files are saved on Mac requires administrative access. Ensure that you have administrative privileges to make changes on your Mac.
Fix: You can gain administrative access by creating a new user account with administrative privileges or by resetting your admin password if you have forgotten it.
2. The location/folder is hidden: If the location/folder you want to save files in is hidden, you won’t be able to see it in the Finder Preferences or the Save dialog box.
Fix: You can unhide the folder by using Terminal or by changing the settings in the Finder Preferences.
3. You’re using a third-party application: Some third-party applications may not allow you to change the default save location.
Fix: Check the preferences or settings of the application or contact the developer for more information.
Additional Tips
- You can create a new folder in the location/folder where you want to save files to make it easier to find them.
- You can also set up folder actions to automate certain tasks and improve your workflow.
- Once you’ve changed the default location, don’t forget to backup your files regularly.
5 FAQs about Changing Where Files Are Saved on Mac
Q: Can I change the save location only for specific file types?
A: Yes, you can change the default save location for specific file types in the Save dialog box of the application you’re using.
Q: Will changing the default save location affect my previously saved files?
A: No, changing the default save location will not affect previously saved files.
Q: How do I unhide a folder on my Mac?
A: You can unhide a folder by using Terminal or by changing the settings in the Finder Preferences.
Q: Can I use Method 2 for all applications or just specific ones?
A: Method 2 applies to all applications used to create or edit files on your Mac.
Q: What do I do if I make a mistake when using Terminal?
A: Mistyping commands in Terminal can cause unintended results on your Mac. If you make a mistake, carefully review the command and try again. If you’re unsure of what to do, seek help from an experienced Mac user or a professional.
In Conclusion
Changing where files are saved on Mac is a simple process that can save you time and improve your workflow. By using the methods outlined in this blog post, you can set a new default save location that works best for you. Remember to prepare beforehand, be cautious when using Terminal, and backup your files regularly. Happy file-saving!