How to Limit Finder Search to Current Folder on Mac

Specially when searching for a specific file or folder, I want the search to be as precise equally possible. The search bar in every Finder window is gear up to search an entire system, which seems a bit odd – to say the least. Still, slightly hidden within Finder preferences is an choice to limit the search to a current folder on macOS. If you haven't nevertheless discovered this little known Mac characteristic, now is the right time to unravel information technology. Here is how you lot tin can limit Finder search to current folder on Mac.

Restrict Finder Search to Current Folder on macOS

Wondering whether or not your Mac will allow you to customize the Finder search bar? Well, this feature has existed on macOS/OS X for ages. So, even if your Mac is running the old macOS versions, yous tin can restrict the search inside the stock file manager. The good matter is it doesn't change Spotlight preferences, therefore your organization-broad search-setting won't be impacted. With that said, permit's get started!

Launch the Finder app on your Mac.

Launch Finder app on macOS

two. Now, click on the Finder card at the pinnacle left corner and choose Preferences.

3. Side by side, click on the Avant-garde tab.

Click on Advanced tab

four. Under "When performing a search" section, click on the driblet-downwards carte du jour.

5. Finally, choose the "Search the Current Folder" pick.

There yous become! From now onwards, the file director will be restricted to look simply inside a electric current folder rather than tracking down the entire system.

Customize Finder Search on Mac

And so, that'south how you tin fine-tune the Finder search on your macOS device to await but inside a current directory. Times when you are tracking downward a specific file, it comes in super handy in narrowing down the hunt. Therefore, it saves not but time just besides enhances productivity. What's your take on this hack and where does Apple'south file manager stand up against popular rivals? Practise share your thoughts in the comments down beneath.