Apple’s macOS is packed with powerful features, but many users only scratch the surface of what their Mac can do. Whether you’re a seasoned Mac user or a newcomer, these Mac tips and tricks 2025 will help you get the most out of your device.
1. Mastering Mac Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are a game-changer when it comes to boosting productivity. Here are some essential shortcuts every Mac user should know:
- Command (⌘) + Space – Opens Spotlight Search instantly.
- Command (⌘) + Tab – Switch between open applications.
- Command (⌘) + Shift + 5 – Opens the screenshot and screen recording tool.
- Option + Click – Quickly close an app without bringing it to the foreground.
- Command (⌘) + H – Hides the active application.
- Command (⌘) + L – Instantly locks your Mac.
2. Best macOS Features in 2025
Apple continuously refines macOS with each update, and macOS Sonoma has some exciting hidden features:
a. Dynamic Desktop & Wallpapers
macOS Sonoma introduces dynamic wallpapers that change based on the time of day and weather conditions, making your Mac experience more immersive.
b. Safari Profiles
You can now create different Safari profiles to separate work and personal browsing. This is particularly useful for keeping bookmarks, cookies, and extensions organized.
c. Video Conferencing Enhancements
A new presenter overlay feature allows you to stay on screen while presenting in apps like Zoom or FaceTime.
d. Widgets on Desktop
You can now place widgets directly on your desktop, providing quick access to information like weather, calendar events, and stock prices.
3. Optimizing Mac Performance
To keep your Mac running smoothly, follow these optimization tips:
a. Manage Storage Efficiently
Use Apple’s Storage Management Tool by going to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage and enabling “Optimize Storage” to remove unnecessary files.
b. Free Up RAM Quickly
If your Mac is slowing down, free up RAM by opening Terminal and typing:
sudo purge
This clears inactive memory without restarting your Mac.
c. Reduce Startup Items
Go to System Settings > General > Login Items and disable apps that you don’t need at startup.
4. Mac Security Tips for 2025
Protecting your Mac from security threats is crucial. Here are some essential security features:
a. Enable FileVault Encryption
Encrypt your data with FileVault by going to System Settings > Privacy & Security > FileVault.
b. Use Touch ID or Face ID (If Available)
Newer MacBooks now support Face ID along with Touch ID for faster authentication and improved security.
c. Turn on Firewall & Stealth Mode
Go to System Settings > Network > Firewall and enable it. Also, activate Stealth Mode to make your Mac less visible to hackers.
5. Mac Hidden Features for Power Users
a. Quickly Rename Multiple Files
Select multiple files, right-click, and choose Rename to rename them all at once.
b. Use Quick Look for Instant File Previews
Press Spacebar after selecting a file to preview its content without opening it.
c. Split View for Multitasking
Click and hold the green maximize button on a window to activate Split View, allowing you to work on two apps side by side.
d. Terminal Tweaks for Advanced Users
- Enable hidden files in Finder using Terminal:
defaults write com.apple.Finder AppleShowAllFiles true; killall Finder
- Disable startup chime (for MacBooks with speakers):
sudo nvram SystemAudioVolume=%80
6. Boosting Productivity with macOS Apps
a. Use Universal Clipboard
Copy text or images on your iPhone and paste them directly on your Mac using Universal Clipboard (requires macOS and iOS devices with Handoff enabled).
b. Leverage Focus Modes
Focus Modes allow you to block distractions by filtering notifications. Go to System Settings > Focus to set custom Focus modes.
c. Automate Repetitive Tasks with Shortcuts
The Shortcuts app lets you automate frequent tasks like resizing images or sending pre-written emails with a single click.
d. Handwritten Notes with Freeform
The Freeform app allows you to create mind maps and handwritten notes, which sync across your Apple devices.
7. Connecting Your Mac with Other Apple Devices
a. Use Sidecar to Extend Your Display
Turn your iPad into a secondary display for your Mac using Sidecar. Go to System Settings > Displays > Add Display and select your iPad.
b. Handoff for Seamless Continuity
Start an email on your iPhone and finish it on your Mac instantly using Handoff.
c. AirDrop for Instant File Sharing
Quickly send files between your Apple devices using AirDrop.
Conclusion
Your Mac is capable of much more than you realize. By mastering these Mac tips and tricks 2025, best macOS features, Mac keyboard shortcuts, Mac security tips, and Mac hidden features, you can work more efficiently, enhance security, and enjoy a seamless Apple ecosystem experience. Try out these features today and take your Mac usage to the next level in 2025!