How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

This practical guide walks through how to select multiple files at once on Mac, explains the main requirements, and highlights common issues that may appear along the way.

Here's how to select multiple files at once on a Mac.

Select multiple contiguous files

If the files you want to select are in a particular sequence or list, selecting them all is easy.

First, open Finder and navigate to the folder containing the files you want to select.

If you're applying the Icons view in Finder, you'll have to change it to List, Columns, or Gallery. (This method does not work in Icons view). To make changes, at the top of the Finder window, click the square icon (with the little squares inside) and choose 'As List,' 'As Columns,' or 'As Gallery'.

Select multiple contiguous files � How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

Now that the Finder layout is in List, Columns, or Gallery view, click on the first file to select it.

Select multiple contiguous files � How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

Next, hold down the Shift key on your keyboard, then click the last file in the folder.

Select multiple contiguous files � How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

Immediately, Finder will select all the files in the middle (including the first and last) in the list.

Select non-contiguous files

If the files you want to select are scattered in different locations in the folder, there is still a way to select them all.

Start by opening the folder containing the files you want to select in Finder. Then click on the first file you need to select.

Select non-contiguous files � How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

Press and hold the Command key on your Mac keyboard, then click another file that you want to select.

Select non-contiguous files � How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

Both of these files are now selected. To select more files, simply hold down the Command key and click on each file you want to select.

Select multiple files with mouse or trackpad

First, open the folder containing the files you want to select in Finder.

In a Finder window, click the mouse pointer anywhere in the empty space, then drag the pointer over the files you want to select.

Select multiple files with mouse or trackpad � How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

Immediately, the files that you have dragged the cursor over will be selected.

Select all files in a folder

Start by opening the folder containing the files you want to select in Finder.

Next, press Command + A to select all existing files in the folder. Or you can also navigate to Finder's menu bar and click Edit > Select All.

Select all files in a folder � How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

All existing files in the folder will be selected.

Select all files in a folder � How to Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac

Hope you are succesful.

Key Takeaways

Use the information above as a practical reference for how to select multiple files at once on Mac. Review each step carefully, confirm any requirements, and choose the option that best fits your situation.

FAQ

What does this guide explain about Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac?

It explains the main concepts, practical considerations, and useful steps related to select multiple files at once on Mac without requiring advanced knowledge.

Who can benefit from learning about Select Multiple Files at Once on Mac?

This information is useful for readers who want a clear overview, practical guidance, and reliable steps related to select multiple files at once on Mac.

What should I check before applying this information?

Review the requirements, confirm that your device, software, or situation matches the instructions, and back up important data before making major changes.