How to Show Hidden Files and Folders on macOS

There are a few simple ways to reveal hidden files and folders in macOS. Pick the method you prefer: a quick keyboard toggle, a Terminal command that persists, or the same toggle inside Open/Save dialogs.

1) Quick Toggle in Finder (fastest)

1. Open any Finder window.
2. Press Command + Shift + . (period key).
3. Hidden files will appear in light gray.
4. Press the same shortcut again to hide them.

Best for: quick on/off. Note: Finder usually reverts after a restart.

2) Make it Persistent with Terminal

If you want hidden files to always show:

defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles -bool true
killall Finder

To hide them again later:

defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles -bool false
killall Finder

Tip: Finder will relaunch after killall Finder.

3) In Open or Save Dialogs

1. When an app shows an Open or Save dialog, click inside the file list.
2. Press Command + Shift + ..
3. Press it again to hide them.

Common Hidden Locations

Caution

Hidden items are usually hidden for a reason. Only modify or delete them if you know exactly what they do or you are following a trusted guide.

Optional: If you want the ~/Library folder visible in Finder without showing all hidden files, open Finder, click the Go menu > Home, then choose View > Show View Options and check Show Library Folder.