To show hidden files on a Mac, you have two main easy methods:
Method 1: Use Finder Shortcut
- Open Finder and navigate to any folder (e.g., Documents, Desktop, Macintosh HD).
- Press Command + Shift + . (period) simultaneously.
- Hidden files will appear as semi-transparent or slightly grayed-out icons.
- Press the same key combination again to hide the files
Method 2: Use Terminal Commands
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Open Terminal (via Spotlight or Finder > Applications > Utilities).
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To show hidden files, enter:
defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles TRUE; killall Finder -
This command restarts Finder and reveals hidden files system-wide.
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To hide the files again, use:
defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles FALSE; killall Finder -
Press Return after each command
Both methods are widely used and effective. The Finder shortcut is quicker for occasional use, while the Terminal method is more permanent until reversed. Hidden files are typically grayed out to indicate they are system or important files, so be cautious when modifying them.
