---
id: finder-location.can-i-edit-and-save-files-through-a-shortcut
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/finder-location/can-i-edit-and-save-files-through-a-shortcut
category: "Finding things in Finder"
subcategory: "Opening and using moved files"
question: "Can I open, edit and save files in a moved folder as usual?"
alt_questions:
  - "Can I still edit documents that were moved to the external drive?"
  - "Do changes to a relocated file save to the drive?"
  - "edit file after storage studio moved it"
  - "Is a moved file read-only?"
  - "Where are my edits saved for a relocated file?"
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."
tags: ["editing", "shortcut", "files"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/finder-location/where-do-new-files-go-in-a-relocated-folder", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/finder-location/what-happens-to-shortcuts-when-the-drive-is-unplugged", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/finder-location/do-command-line-tools-and-scripts-follow-shortcuts"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# Can I open, edit and save files in a moved folder as usual?

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](https://storagestudio.us/faq/finder-location/where-do-new-files-go-in-a-relocated-folder).