A file’s path represents its address on your Mac. It specifies the exact directory where the particular file is saved. Knowing the exact path of a file can help you in tons of scenarios, including the means to run certain path-related commands on the terminal. So here, we’re going to talk about a few different ways to find and copy a file’s path on a Mac computer.
How to Copy File Path on Mac?
There are a few different ways to copy file paths on a Mac. Here, we plan to include all the possible methods. So, you’re free to follow the method you feel most comfortable with.
Use Finder to Copy the File Path
The easiest way to copy a file’s path is through the Finder itself. That is, using the finder path bar, you can track and copy the pathname as per your interest. So, to do this,
Get Info on the File
Another way to copy your file’s path is by accessing its Get Info window. There, you will see different pieces of information related to that file, including its exact file path as well.
Option + Right-Click the File
There is a shortcut method to copy a file’s path on macOS. That is, through a file’s context menu, you’re able to copy its pathname. However, the feature to do so is originally hidden. And that’s where the Option key comes into play. So, when you hold down Option and right-click on a file, you’ll easily be able to copy its pathname. Here’s how to do so:
Use Terminal
The Terminal is the command line interface of your Mac computer. Through the terminal, you’re able to do everything you’d normally do via the GUI. This includes the ability to find and copy the file path as well.
Drag and Drop the File on Go to Folder Menu
The Go to Folder menu on the macOS is designed to take you directly to the specified directory of your computer. However, when you drag and drop a particular file on this menu, it also reveals the exact location of this file on your system. And so, through the Go to Folder menu, you’re able to determine and copy the path of the related file.
Use the Automator Tool
Automator is a pre-installed utility tool on your Mac that lets you add certain small yet effective features/services to the system. One of these features includes the option to copy a file’s path directly from its context menu without using any additional and special key combinations. So, here’s how you use the Automator tool to copy a file path:
