Finding things in Finder · Opening and using moved files
Can I open, edit and save files in a moved folder as usual?
Short answer: Yes. Open files from their usual place and save as normal — the shortcut sends your app to the real file on the external drive, so edits are saved there. The drive needs to be connected while you work.
Yes. Open the file from its usual place and work as normal — the shortcut sends your app to the real file on the external drive, and your changes are saved there. Nothing is read-only.
A few things to know:
- The drive must be connected while you work.
- Files open at the speed of your external drive. A fast SSD feels much like your built-in drive; a slow disk will feel slower.
- Brand-new files you save into the folder may land on your Mac rather than the drive, depending on how it was moved — see where new files go.