How to show hidden files on a Mac

2 min read · 4 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

In any Finder window, press Shift + Command + . (full stop). Hidden files and folders appear in a lighter colour. Press the same keys again to hide them.

macOS hides system files and folders whose names start with a dot, so they are not changed by accident. Sometimes you need to see them, for example to edit a settings file or find what is using space.

The pictures are diagrams of the keys to press.

Step by step

  1. Open a Finder window

    Go to the folder you want to look in, for example your home folder.

  2. Shift+Command+.Show or hide hidden files

    Press Shift + Command + full stop

    Hidden items appear, slightly faded.

  3. Press the same keys to hide them again

    Leave them hidden in daily use.

  4. Open your Library folder directly

    In Finder, open the Go menu and hold the Option key. Library appears in the list. Click it.

Good to know

Do not delete or rename hidden files unless you know exactly what they are. Apps and macOS can stop working.

The shortcut also works in Open and Save dialogs.

To see what is filling the disk without touching hidden files, use the Storage page: how to check and free up storage on a Mac.

In short: Shift + Command + full stop in Finder.

Sources
  • Apple Support: Mac keyboard shortcuts

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