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How to batch rename files on Mac.

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How to Batch Rename Files on Mac

Renaming a large number of files individually on your Mac can be a time-consuming task. However, with the help of macOS's built-in tools and some third-party applications, you can easily rename multiple files at once. In this tutorial, we'll explore different methods to batch rename files on Mac.

Prerequisites

  • Mac computer running macOS

Method 1: Using Finder's "Rename Items" Feature

  1. Select the files you want to rename. You can do this by clicking and dragging over the files or holding the Command key and clicking on individual files.
  2. Right-click on the selected files and choose "Rename x Items" from the dropdown menu.
  3. In the Rename Finder Items window, you have several options for renaming:
    • Select a naming format from the "Format" dropdown menu. For example, "Name and Index" adds a number to the end of each file name.
    • Customize the naming format using the "Add Text" and "Format" options below.
    • Preview the changes by checking the "Preview" checkbox.
  4. Once you're satisfied with the renaming options, click the "Rename" button to apply the changes. A confirmation prompt will appear.
  5. Click "Continue" to rename the files. Finder will automatically apply the new names to all the selected files.

Method 2: Using Automator

  1. Open Automator, which can be found in the Applications folder or by using Spotlight search.
  2. In the Automator template chooser, select "Quick Action" and click "Choose".
  3. In the search bar on the left-hand side, type "Rename Finder Items" and drag it to the workflow area on the right.
  4. Choose the options for renaming your files:
    • Select which items should be processed from the "Service receives selected" dropdown menu. You can choose "files" or "folders" or both.
    • Choose the renaming format from the "Rename Finder Items" action options.
  5. Preview the changes by clicking the "Run" button in the top-right corner of the Automator window.
  6. If you're happy with the preview, save the Automator workflow by going to File > Save.
  7. Give your workflow a name, such as "Batch Rename Files", and choose where you want to save it. Click "Save".
  8. To use the workflow, select the files you want to rename in Finder, then right-click and choose "Quick Actions" > "Batch Rename Files" (or the name you gave to your workflow). The files will be renamed according to the rules you set in Automator.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Applications (Renamer, NameChanger, etc.)

If you prefer more advanced renaming options, there are several third-party applications available for batch renaming files on Mac. Here are a few popular choices:

  • Renamer: A powerful batch file renaming tool with a simple user interface. It offers flexible renaming options, including find and replace, sequence numbering, and more.
  • NameChanger: Another versatile batch file renaming app, NameChanger allows you to rename files using patterns, regular expressions, and other custom options.
  • A Better Finder Rename: This comprehensive renaming tool offers a wide range of renaming methods, including numbering, trimming, inserting text, and changing case.

After downloading and installing your preferred application, simply follow the instructions provided by the app to batch rename your files.

Congratulations! You now have multiple methods to batch rename files on your Mac. Choose the one that suits your requirements best and streamline your file organization process.