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One of the most common issues among Mac users is how to move folders from desktop on Mac. It can be frustrating and time-consuming if you don’t know the right steps. However, don’t worry, as we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on various methods that you can use to move folders from your desktop with ease.
Moving folders from desktop is an essential task, especially when you need to organize your files and documents. It can help you to keep your desktop clean and clutter-free. So, without any further ado, let’s jump straight into the topic.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Move Folders From Desktop on Mac
There can be several reasons why you need to move folders from desktop on Mac. Here are some of the most common reasons:
– To declutter your desktop and keep it organized
– To free up space on your desktop
– To keep private or sensitive files and documents secure
– To group files and documents based on their category or type
– To make it easy to find the files and documents you need quickly
Now that we know why it’s essential to move folders from desktop on Mac let’s move on to the methods that you can use to achieve this task.
Method 1: Via Drag and Drop
The most straightforward method to move folders from desktop on Mac is to use drag and drop. Here are the steps to do this:
1. Click and hold the folder that you want to move
2. Drag the folder to the location where you want to move it
3. Release the mouse button
4. The folder will now be moved to the new location
Pros:
– The method is simple and requires no technical knowledge
– You can move the folder to any location you want
Cons:
– If you accidentally drop the folder in the wrong location, you’ll need to repeat the process again
Method 2: Using the Finder App
Another way to move folders from desktop on Mac is by using the Finder app. Here are the steps to do this:
1. Click on the Finder app on the dock
2. Click on "Desktop" on the left side of the Finder window
3. Select the folder you want to move
4. Drag the folder to the location where you want to move it
5. Release the mouse button
6. The folder will now be moved to the new location
Pros:
– You can easily navigate to the folder you want to move
– The method is perfect for moving multiple folders at once
Cons:
– It can be challenging to move folders to specific locations
Method 3: Using Keyboard Shortcuts
Using keyboard shortcuts is another easy way to move folders from desktop on Mac. Here are the steps to do this:
1. Click on the folder you want to move
2. Press and hold "Command + C" to copy the folder
3. Navigate to the location where you want to move the folder
4. Press and hold "Command + V" to paste the folder in the new location
5. The folder will now be moved to the new location
Pros:
– You can move folders without using the mouse
– The method is perfect when you are dealing with many folders at once
Cons:
– It’s challenging for new Mac users to memorize the keyboard shortcuts
Method 4: Using Terminal
Using Terminal is a method for advanced users who are comfortable with using the command line. Here are the steps to do this:
1. Open Terminal on your Mac
2. Type "mv " (without quotes) and enter a space
3. Drag the folder you want to move to the Terminal window
4. Type the location where you want to move the folder
5. Press Enter
6. The folder will now be moved to the new location
Pros:
– Advanced users can move files and folders without using the Finder app
– The method can be faster than other methods
Cons:
– It requires knowledge of command line
– A small typo in the command can cause errors
Method 5: Using Third-Party Apps
Several third-party apps can help you move folders easily on Mac. Two popular apps are "Tidy Up" and "CleanMyMac X". Here are the steps to do this:
– Download and install the app of your choice
– Open the app and select the "Move Folders" option
– Select the folder you want to move
– Navigate to the location where you want to move the folder
– Click "Move"
– The folder will now be moved to the new location.
Pros:
– The method is perfect for users who want a more organized approach
– It’s great for moving large numbers of folders at once.
Cons:
– You need to purchase the app; it is not a free method.
What to Do If You Can’t Move Folders From Desktop on Mac
While the above methods work for most users, sometimes, you may face some issues that don’t allow you to move folders from desktop on Mac. Here are some simple fixes you can try:
– Restart your Mac: Sometimes, a simple reboot can solve the issue.
– Close all open windows and apps: It can be a temporary issue caused due to a software glitch that can be resolved by closing all the windows and apps.
– Update MacOS: Keeping your OS updated to the latest version resolves bugs and errors. Check for Updates in the App Store.
Bonus Tips
Here are some bonus tips to help you move folders from desktop on Mac:
– Use keyboard shortcuts as much as possible for faster work.
– Name the folders based on their type so that you can search for them easily later.
– Using third-party apps can help you save time and stay organized.
– Moving files and folders outside of the root folder may create unwanted duplicates.
5 FAQs
Q1: What happens if I move a folder with important documents to the trash?
A: If you move a folder with important documents to the trash, the folder and its contents will be moved to the trash and will be permanently deleted after 30 days. You can recover them from the trash within 30 days.
Q2: What should I do if I accidentally delete a folder I meant to move?
A: If you accidentally delete a folder, don’t worry, you can recover it from the trash within 30 days. If you delete it from the trash, it’s gone forever.
Q3: What is the quickest way to move a folder to another folder?
A: The fastest way is to do it via drag and drop or via the keyboard shortcuts "Command + C" and "Command + V".
Q4: Is it safe to move system folders from the desktop?
A: No, it’s not a good idea to move system folders from the desktop. It can cause issues with your Mac’s operating system and lead to system-wide problems.
Q5: Why can’t I move folders from the desktop?
A: There can be various reasons why you can’t move a folder from the desktop, such as permission issues, file corruption, or software glitches. Try restarting your Mac or updating System Software.
Final Thoughts
Moving folders from desktop on Mac isn’t a complicated task, thanks to the variety of methods available. The method you choose should depend on your individual needs and preferences, whether you want a simple or more advanced approach. By keeping your desktop clutter-free, you can work more efficiently and find the files you need faster. We hope this blog post has helped you solve this tedious task with ease.