macOS File Manager: How to Manage Files on a MacBook

If you are a casual MacBook user, then you are probably not too fussed about managing your files that much. 

On the other hand, some people treat their computers as primary work or entertainment tools, which naturally means paying more attention to the files on the device.

File management can get quite complicated once you delve deeper. The issue becomes more apparent when there are more and more files to manage.

Getting the basics down helps you build a solid foundation. The purpose of this article is to cover what computer users need to focus on while managing their files.

Get a File Manager Tool

As expected, automation is common on computers these days, which is not surprising, considering how more and more users are seeking methods to make things easier for themselves.

Whether you are looking for an MS Windows file manager or a macOS file manager, finding one should not be a problem.

Of course, you should prepare to pay money for decent software, but if it helps you get better at managing files on the computer, the investment is worth it.

Also, before you commit to a specific file manager, make sure that it has the necessary features. Otherwise, you will be wasting your money.

Pay Attention to Different File Formats

When you select non-consecutive files, images, folders, or other data, you do not want to scratch your head figuring out what these files are and why there are different format files in the same folder.

Get in the habit of knowing what each file format is (at least as far as files you manage directly go) so that you have an easier time distinguishing them.

Sure, the computer is one place where you keep the data, but if the file format is all over the place, you will have a difficult time managing digital storage.

Create Naming Conventions

From individual files to folders, it is crucial to create a naming system that lets you keep track of everything.

Try to be as specific as you can because it will make things easier for the future. And once you establish the basics of the naming convention system, you can follow it in the future and make the adjustments when and if necessary.

Get Rid of Unnecessary Clutter

Over time, it is inevitable that the number of files grows, leaving you with multiple problems.

For one, it is hard to manage files when there is plenty of redundant clutter. Moreover, lack of storage on a computer also slows down the overall device performance. Some computers also come with relatively low storage, which means that you have less space to work with.

Once you notice that there is less and less free space on the computer’s drive, go through the data and figure out what files you can remove permanently.

There might be old media files, redundant localization files for software, and other data that you can delete from the computer. 

It becomes easier to keep track of files when there is less data to worry about. Also, by freeing up disk space, you are bound to notice the computer performs better.

Utilize Clouds and External Storage Accessories

It would be a waste not to make the most out of cloud services and external storage devices. With the former, it is common to rely on Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud, and other similar services for file exchange between different devices.

Let’s say that you want to transfer a file from your computer to a smartphone or tablet. Setting up a cloud account on both devices for the future is much more convenient than having to bother with USB cables. Digital file management is by far a superior option.

As for external storage accessories, you can also use them as an alternative, though sticking to cloud services might feel less clunky.

Back Up Data

Data backups are often underestimated by people who do not consider the possibility of computer hardware breaking down. Even though modern solid-state drives are quite durable, you should not expect that your computer’s drive will not last forever. It might stop working when you least expect it, and failing to back up data beforehand will result in significant issues.

There is an argument to be made for using recovery software, but you cannot guarantee that recovery tools will be able to restore lost data.

At the very least, have one copy of computer files as a safety net. And if you want, you can create multiple backups.

Avoid Cybersecurity Threats

The last bit of advice is about securing your files from malware and other threats. Corrupted data is not that easy to restore, not to mention that you can potentially expose sensitive information.

In some cases, malware could also delete files permanently, leaving you without any options to restore the data.

Use reliable antivirus software all the time and follow smart practices to avoid potential security threats.