- ⏱️ Discover how multiple file selection boosts your digital productivity.
- 💻 Windows or Mac, become an expert with our keyboard and mouse tips.
- 🖱️ Say goodbye to tedious clicks and revolutionize your file management.
- 🔍 Filter, select, organize: optimize your time in no time!
- 🚀 Ready to explore advanced methods for precise and fast selections?
Discover how to optimize your digital productivity by mastering an essential skill: multiple file selection. Whether you are a professional juggling hundreds of documents or a user looking to better organize your photos, this tip will save you precious time. Windows or Mac, no matter your operating system, we have the solutions you need.
Have you ever spent long minutes selecting your files one by one? No more ordeal! In this article, we reveal all the techniques to quickly select multiple files on Windows and Mac. From keyboard shortcuts to mouse tricks to advanced methods, you’ll become a true expert in file manipulation.
Why knowing how to select multiple files is essential
Ever tear your hair out trying to move a hundred photos one by one? No more hassle! Multiple file selection is a real game-changer for your daily productivity. Whether you’re on Windows or Mac, mastering this skill will save you precious time.
Imagine being able to organize your folders in a few clicks, instead of spending hours manipulating each file individually. Not only is it more efficient, it also reduces the risk of errors. So, are you ready to become a file management pro?
The different methods to select multiple files on Windows
Windows offers several simple but powerful techniques for selecting your files. Let’s see how Microsoft has designed the ergonomics of its file explorer to make your digital life easier.
Use the Ctrl key
The Ctrl key is your best ally for precise selection. Hold down Ctrl and click on each file you want to select. It’s that simple! This method is ideal when your files are not side by side.
You can also deselect a file by clicking on it again with Ctrl.
Use the Shift key
For bulk selection, nothing beats the Shift key. Click on the first file, hold Shift, then click the last one. All files in between will be selected. This is perfect for choosing a series of consecutive files.
Did you know that this technique also works with the arrow keys on the keyboard?
With the mouse for multiple selection
Your mouse is not left out in this dance of files. Click and drag to draw a rectangle around the files to select. It’s intuitive and fast, especially when your files are grouped together.
Combine this method with Ctrl to add or remove files to your existing selection.
The different methods to select multiple files on Mac
Now let’s move on to the Apple universe. macOS has its own logic, but you’ll see, it’s just as efficient as Windows.
Use the Command key (Cmd)
On Mac, the Command key (Cmd) acts as Ctrl. Hold Cmd and click on the files of your choice. This is the perfect method for an à la carte selection, precise and without proximity constraints.
This technique also works in most macOS applications, not just Finder.
Use the Shift key
As on Windows, Shift is your ally for bulk selections. Click on the first file, hold Shift, then click the last one. All files in between will be included. This is ideal for selecting a large quantity of consecutive files.
With the mouse for multiple selection
Your Mac’s trackpad or mouse are also valuable tools. Click and drag to draw a selection rectangle around your files. It’s quick, visual and particularly useful when your files are grouped together.
Use icon viewing mode to facilitate this type of selection.
Additional tips for optimizing file selection
Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s take optimization even further. These tips will boost your productivity, whether you’re on Windows or Mac.
Combine keyboard and mouse shortcuts
The real power lies in the combination of methods. For example, select a group with the mouse, then add specific files with Ctrl (Windows) or Cmd (Mac). This flexibility allows you to quickly manage complex selections.
Practice switching between keyboard and mouse. With a little practice, it will become a reflex!
Use search to narrow down selections
The search bar is your secret ally. Type a keyword or file extension to filter your view, then use multiple selection techniques on this refined result. This is particularly useful in overloaded folders.
Tip: Use wildcards (* or ?) in your search for even more precise results.
Group files by type or criteria before selection
Before you start your selection, organize your files intelligently. Sort them by type, date or size. This preparation will make your selection much faster and more precise.
Good initial sorting can save you valuable minutes on repetitive tasks.
Useful links
- Select multiple files -Dropbox
- How to select multiple files – SOS GrannyGeek
- How to select multiple files on Mac -Wondershare
- Select items on your Mac – Apple Support
- Pika 2.0: Presentation and tips for generating AI videos - 16 January 2025
- Text-to-Video — Become an expert in AI video generation - 16 January 2025
- Create a professional website in 20 minutes with Bolt.new - 27 December 2024