What Are Some Considerations for Mac File Management?

Managing files on a MacBook might not be as simple as you think, especially if you switch to macOS as a long-time Windows user. Getting used to a new environment will likely take a while. And when you are unfamiliar with the operating system, the odds of making an error and misplacing a document or another type of file increase. 

Let’s take a look at suggestions that will improve your MacBook file management strategy. Keep in mind that the more of these suggestions you implement into your strategy, the fewer problems you can expect to encounter.

Create a Database

Creating a database might seem like a bit too much, but it should still be a consideration given how useful the idea of a database could prove. The purpose of a database is to offer users a flexible way to access and manage data.

When it comes to the mac db software, some of the best available options include Base and TablePlus.

Base excels in its management flexibility and comes with an intuitive SQLite interface. SQL database language is the go-to pick not just because of its flexibility but also security, integrity, and great performance.

As for TablePlus, it should be the pick for those who have to manage multiple databases simultaneously.

Take Advantage of iCloud

Not taking advantage of iCloud would be unwise. The service offers five gigabytes of free storage with available upgrade plans that come with as much as 2TB of total storage for 10 dollars per month.

Sometimes, it is more convenient to transfer and access files from iCloud. For example, if there are multiple people working on the same project, exchanging or updating files is easier when everyone has access to the same iCloud account. 

It is also worth noting that one can sync their iCloud account with other Apple devices that they own. For instance, you can access the cloud’s contents on an iPhone or an iPad. 

Since moving the files from iCloud to the MacBook and vice-versa is easy, you should not struggle with the process too much. 

Finally, using iCloud means fewer problems with the MacBook’s storage as you can transfer some data to iCloud instead of cluttering the laptop’s drive.

Back Up Data

Regular data backups are another important element of managing computer files. Even experienced users know that the odds of hardware problems exist despite having reliable computers and a proper maintenance strategy. 

Besides, it is not just hardware failure. Someone might delete data accidentally, and recovering files is not always that easy or even possible.

Finally, there is malware and other cybersecurity threats. In some instances, having antivirus software is not always enough to protect the computer from malware.

To back up MacBook data, use Time Machine, which is a built-in macOS data backup tool. You will need to combine it with an external hard drive or a USB flash drive (depending on how much data you want to back up). 

The first backup will take a while since Time Machine will need to create a copy of all the MacBook files. However, the future backups will be shorter. Instead of all the files, Time Machine will need to back up new and modified files in future backups. 

Use File Naming Conventions

You might find it difficult to locate files if you are not careful with the naming conventions. Instead of bothering to rename individual files, people simply leave the default names only to forget what the file actually was.

Photos are a great example of this. When you take a picture on your camera, smartphone, or tablet and upload it to a MacBook, the files usually have names like IMG_1, IMG_2, etc. 

If you plan to keep an entire album but do not wish to spend too much time looking for specific pictures, use specific keywords or dates to distinguish photos.

Another thing to note about locating files on a MacBook is that it becomes much easier when you name individual files properly and use tools like Finder and Spotlight. 

Get Rid of Redundant Junk

The last bit of advice is about deleting redundant junk on your MacBook. In time, there will be plenty of files that become obsolete. For instance, old email attachments, desktop shortcuts, applications, localization files, or media files.

Deleting unwanted files permanently by dragging them in the Trash Bin or hitting the Option + Command + Delete keyboard shortcut will free up the MacBook drive’s space and leave you with fewer files to worry about. 

Conclusion

All in all, the information in this article should give you a general idea about approaching the creation of file management on a MacBook. Use the tips mentioned above to your advantage to take better care of the data on your Mac.