Mac storage basics · Finder tools for finding space

How do I select lots of files at once to delete them on a Mac?

Q: How do I select lots of files at once to delete them on a Mac?

In Finder: - Command-click adds or removes single items from the selection. - Shift-click in list view selects a continuous run of items. - Command-A selects everything in the folder. Then press Command-Delete to move the selection to the Trash. A quick way to clear out a folder of old files is to sort by Date Modified or Size in list view first, so the candidates sit together. Check the selection count in the status bar (View → Show Status Bar) before deleting, so you don't take more than you meant to.

Short answer: Command-click to pick individual items, Shift-click for a range in list view, or Command-A for everything, then press Command-Delete to move them to the Trash.

In Finder:

Command-click adds or removes single items from the selection.
Shift-click in list view selects a continuous run of items.
Command-A selects everything in the folder.

Then press Command-Delete to move the selection to the Trash. A quick way to clear out a folder of old files is to sort by Date Modified or Size in list view first, so the candidates sit together.

Check the selection count in the status bar (View → Show Status Bar) before deleting, so you don't take more than you meant to.

Last reviewed October 1, 2026

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How do I select lots of files at once to delete them on a Mac?

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