Juggling multiple files on your Mac is a breeze once you know the tricks. Here are four ways to select those files you need, whether they’re neatly grouped or scattered across your folders.

1. Keyboard Shortcuts: Your Speedy Selection Tools

  • Shift Click for Sequenced Files: This is a classic. Click the first file you want, then hold down the Shift key and click the last file. This selects all the files in between them, perfect for grabbing a series of photos or documents in a row.
  • Command Click for Scattered Selections: Need files from different areas? No problem. Hold down the Command (⌘) key and click on each individual file you want. This lets you pick and choose without worrying about order.
  • Command A for Everything: In a hurry? Pressing Command (⌘) + A selects all the files in the current window. This is a great way to quickly grab everything at once.

2. Point and Click Perfection

  • Click-and-Drag for Area Selection: This method works well in Icon view. Click on an empty space in the folder and hold down your mouse button. Drag the cursor to create a selection box that encompasses all the files you want. Release the button, and they’re all selected!

Bonus Tip: Deselecting a File

Accidentally grabbed the wrong file? No worries. Simply hold down Command (⌘) and click the file again to deselect it.

Mastering these simple selection techniques will make navigating your Mac files a breeze!