Mac automator to sort downloaded files

I download a lot of files—disk images, songs, pictures, and books. All of them go into the Downloads folder within my user folder. When I finally get around to using them, I rummage around in this folder, which now contains hundreds of files. With Automator you can make that so. In the Finder, create two folders on the Desktop.

Name the first Disk Images and the second My Pictures. In the resulting window, click the Folder Action receives files and folders added to pop-up menu, select Other , and navigate to the Downloads folder inside your user folder.

Click Choose. In the first action the first instance of the Filter Finder Items action , leave the first pop-up set to All. Then, configure the next row of pop-up menus to read File Extension is dmg. First, you need to create two new folders, which we created on our desktop and named Disk Images and My Pics.

Don't panic if you don't see the workflow's result as soon as you save it. It may need your input to first download items that match the criteria such as a DMG file or an image to see it in action. Time Machine does a great job of backing up data, but sometimes you need a little more. Perhaps you might need a secondary copy of important data or maybe you need backups more frequently than Time Machine provides. The Automator workflow below does just that, by taking items placed into a specific folder and backing them up onto another drive.

As you can see, the possibilities are limited only by the number of built-in library items. However, with a little bit of programming knowledge you will push yourself beyond these limits, and as a result end up writing scripts and creating workflows for all sorts of complex tasks — such as finding duplicated files or even showing hidden files.

Stay up to date on the latest tech news and discounts on Mac optimization software with our monthly newsletter. Your email address will not be published. Clean MB of Junk for Free. User-friendly client Deep, effective cleaning options Versatile, user-oriented customer support day money back guarantee Full review….

Personalized, remote assistance Unique optimization tools Anti-theft tracking Built-in antivirus Full review….