How to Close All Windows on Mac
Are you someone who has multiple windows open on their MacBook? Do you find it troublesome to close each one of them separately? Fret not, as we have got you covered! In this article, we will guide you through the 12 easy steps that will help you to close all windows on Mac.
Steps:
Step 1: The first step is to click on the “Finder” icon present in your Dock.
Step 2: Subsequently, click on the “File” option that is present in the menu bar on the top of the screen.
Step 3: From the dropdown menu, click on the “Close all windows” option.
Step 4: Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut “Option+Command+W” to close all windows.
Step 5: In case you do not have the “Finder” window open, you can still use this shortcut by clicking on the desktop screen.
Step 6: Another way of closing all windows is by using the “Mission Control” feature. You can do this by swiping up using three or four fingers on your MacBook trackpad.
Step 7: The “Mission Control” feature will showcase all the currently opened windows of all applications on your MacBook.
Step 8: You can click and hold the “Option” key and click on the “X” icon present on the top right corner of the window you wish to close.
Step 9: By doing this for all open windows, you can ensure that all windows on your MacBook are now closed.
Step 10: Another way is to use the “Terminal” feature. Type “killall Finder” in the Terminal window and hit enter.
Step 11: This will restart the “Finder” and automatically close all open windows
Step 12: Lastly, you can also create a shortcut on your dock. You can do this by holding the “Option+Command” keys and clicking on any application icon on your Dock.
Explanation:
The aforementioned steps are an easy and convenient way to close all the open windows on your MacBook. The first step involves accessing the “Finder” window, followed by using either the “File” option in the menu bar or the keyboard shortcut to close all windows. In case the “Finder” window is not open, users can still use the keyboard shortcut by clicking on the desktop screen. The “Mission Control” feature is another easy way to view all open windows of all application present on your MacBook. Users can then use the “Option” key along with the “X” icon present on the top right corner of the window to close it. In addition to this, the “Terminal” feature is also a helpful way to restart the “Finder” and automatically close all open windows. Lastly, creating a dock shortcut is also a smart hack to close all windows on your MacBook.
Tips and Tricks:
1. In case you accidentally close all open windows, use the command “Command+Shift+T” to reopen closed windows.
2. Hold down “Option” key before closing a single window to simultaneously close all windows of the same application.
3. Use “Command+Tab” to switch between open applications.
4. Use “Command+W” to close a single window.
5. In “Mission Control”, drag windows to different desktop spaces.
6. MacBooks with a Touch Bar, you can add “Close all windows” to the touch bar by going to System Preferences > Keyboard > Customize Touch Bar > Drag “Close all windows” from the menu to the Touch Bar.
7. Use third-party window manager apps to automatically manage your open windows.
8. If you do not use the “Finder” often, it’s best to keep it hidden from the Dock.
9. Use the keyboard shortcut “Command+Option+W” to close all windows in a specific application.
10. Keep your MacBook updated with the latest software updates and fixes.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, using the aforementioned steps, you can easily and effectively close all windows on your MacBook without any hassle. Utilizing keyboard shortcuts, the “Finder” window, “Mission Control,” and the “Terminal” feature, and creating a dock shortcut are the easy ways to close all windows. Furthermore, by using tips and tricks such as reopening closed windows, using third-party window manager apps and customizing the Touch Bar, you can maximize the usage of your MacBook. It is always advised to keep your MacBook updated with the latest software updates and fixes.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Closing All Windows on Mac
For Mac users, sometimes it becomes necessary to close all windows on their devices. It does not only offer a clean and organized desktop, but it also optimizes the overall performance of the device. However, like many things in life, there are both advantages and disadvantages of closing all windows on Mac. Let us explore them in detail.
Advantages
-
Reduces Clutter: One of the key advantages of closing all windows on Mac is that it reduces clutter on your desktop. When you have too many windows open at the same time, it can be overwhelming for your senses, and you may find it challenging to focus. Closing the windows will streamline your workspace and make it more manageable for you to perform your tasks.
-
Improves Performance: Closing all windows on Mac improves the overall performance of the device. When too many windows are open, your device may slow down, and it may take longer to complete your work. By closing all windows, you free up space on your Mac, and it can run faster and smoother.
-
Protects Privacy: Closing all windows on your Mac helps to protect your privacy. You may have sensitive information on your screen that you do not want others to see, such as confidential emails or documents. By closing all windows, you ensure that your information remains private and secure.
-
Saves Battery Life: If you are using a MacBook, closing all windows on your device can help to save battery life. When too many windows are open, your device consumes more power, and your battery will not last as long. By closing all windows, you can extend the battery life of your MacBook.
-
Eases Multi-Tasking: Closing all windows on your Mac can make multitasking more comfortable and efficient for you. When you have too many windows open at the same time, it can be challenging to switch between tasks. Closing all windows and opening only the ones you need will make it easier for you to switch between apps and perform multiple tasks at the same time.
Disadvantages
-
Loss of Progress: One of the most significant disadvantages of closing all windows is that you may lose some of your work progress if you forget to save your documents. If you have multiple windows open and have not saved your work, unsaved progress will be lost when you close the windows.
-
Disrupts Workflow: If you have too many windows open but need to access them all simultaneously, closing them may disrupt your workflow. It may take longer to open and close the windows every time you need to switch between apps, which can be a hassle.
-
Loss of Focus: Closing all windows may cause you to lose focus if you forget what you were working on. When you have multiple windows open, it can be easier to remember your current task and stay focused. Closing all windows may cause you to forget what you were working on and lose your train of thought.
-
Difficulty in Finding Documents: If you frequently use several programs at once, closing all windows may make it harder for you to find your documents. It may be easier to search for documents when you have many windows open, as you can see the documents you need at a glance.
-
Breaks Work Continuity: If you need to close all windows to optimize the performance of your Mac, it can be challenging to resume working on multiple tasks simultaneously. It might take longer to reopen and reorganize your windows to continue working, which can disrupt your workflow.
FAQ
1. Do I have to close all windows on a Mac?
No, it’s not necessary to close all windows on your Mac. It’s a personal preference and can vary depending on your workflow.
2. Why would I want to close all windows on my Mac?
You might want to close all windows on your Mac to declutter and free up your workspace, or to avoid distraction from other open applications.
3. How can I close all windows on Mac?
You can close all windows on your Mac by using the keyboard shortcut Command + Option + W or by selecting the “Window” menu in the menu bar and clicking “Close All”.
4. Will closing all windows on Mac affect my saved files?
No, closing all windows on your Mac will not affect your saved files. However, make sure that you save any unsaved work before closing your windows.
5. Can I just minimize all windows instead of closing them?
Yes, you can minimize all windows by using the keyboard shortcut Command + M or by clicking the yellow minimize button in the top left corner of the window.
6. How do I restore minimized windows?
You can restore minimized windows by clicking on them in the Dock or by using the keyboard shortcut Command + Tab to cycle through your open applications.
7. Is there a way to close all windows in a specific application?
Yes, you can close all windows in a specific application by selecting the “Window” menu in the menu bar and clicking “Close All [Application Name] Windows”.
8. Will closing all windows speed up my Mac?
It might, but the difference will likely be minimal. Closing windows can help free up resources, but it’s not a guaranteed way to speed up your Mac.
9. Do I need to restart my Mac after closing all windows?
No, restarting your Mac is not necessary after closing all windows. However, it’s a good practice to restart your Mac periodically to keep it running smoothly.
10. Is there a way to automatically close all windows on Mac?
No, there is no built-in feature on Mac that automatically closes all windows. However, you can use third-party apps that can help automate this process.
11. Can I undo closing all windows on Mac?
No, you cannot undo closing all windows on your Mac. Once you’ve closed them, you’ll need to manually reopen any windows or applications you need.
12. Can I customize the keyboard shortcut for closing all windows on Mac?
Yes, you can customize the keyboard shortcut for closing all windows on your Mac by going to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts > App Shortcuts and creating a new shortcut for the “Close All” command.
13. Will closing all windows log me out of my Mac?
No, closing all windows will not log you out of your Mac. To log out, go to the Apple menu in the menu bar, select “Log Out [Your User Name]”, and confirm your choice.
Conclusion
Closing all windows on your Mac can be done easily by using the appropriate keyboard shortcut or by using the Quit All command. These methods are convenient and ensure that all windows are closed, allowing you to start fresh with your new task. Additionally, remember to save any unsaved work before closing all windows to avoid losing important information.
Closing
Thank you for reading this article on how to close all windows on your Mac. We hope that this information has been helpful in improving your workflow and saving time. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them in the section below. And remember, always take breaks and give your eyes a rest from the screen to avoid eye strain and prevent any health concerns. See you in the next article!