Keep files Organized

Learn how to use Folder Actions to process files automatically

REQUIRES

Automator, copies of some files for testing

you will learn

How to use Folder Actions and create your own

IT WIL TA KE

30 minutes

Tucked away in macOS is a gem called Folder Actions. These AppleScripts are just a Ctrl–click away from letting you automate all kinds of tasks.

Certain actions are pre–cooked and ready to go, but you can create your own in Automator and replicate some of the Hazel app’s features. You can create Folder Actions to organize files in any folder, similar to how macOS Mojave’s Stacks feature does for the desktop.

Folder Actions don’t just work on folders stored on your Mac, either — they work for folders on connected servers too. So, if you work with colleagues remotely, you can use a shared folder to swap files and be alerted when they add something.

Here, we’ll show you how to set up Apple–specified Folder Actions, as well as how to make your own.