The Ultimate Guide to Discovering Must-Have Apps on Your MacBook

Having recently transitioned from a Windows PC to a MacBook, you may encounter some challenges in locating your apps due to the distinct interface and organizational options. In this article, we will explore four methods to help you find and launch apps on macOS.

Unlike Windows, macOS does not display apps as desktop shortcuts, and there is no direct counterpart to the start menu. Instead, all the preinstalled and user-installed apps are stored in a designated folder titled "Applications." Additionally, you can also access your apps through the Launchpad, Spotlight Search, or by simply requesting Siri to open a specific app.

Applications Folder: All Your Apps and Easy Docking

The Applications Folder is where you can find both the pre-installed stock apps and the third-party apps that you download from the App Store. In addition, it provides various options such as accessing an app's information, adding it to the Dock, or removing it completely. Let's go through the steps to open the Applications Folder.

On the Dock (at the bottom of the screen), click on Finder.

In the window that opens, select Applications from the menu on the left.

Here, in the Applications Folder, you can find all the apps on your MacBook. To open an app, double-click on it or right-click and select "Open."

To check the size an app occupies on the disk, right-click on the app and select "Get Info."

If you wish to delete an app, right-click on it and select "Move to Bin."

To add an app to the Dock, drag it from the Applications folder and drop it on the Dock.

Launchpad: It's Like the iPad Home Screen for Your Mac

Launchpad serves as a central hub for all the applications on your MacBook, resembling the icon-based display found on iPhones and iPads. Access it by clicking on the Dock icon featuring nine rectangles.

In the Launchpad, you should see all the different apps listed in random order. Here, you can open an app by double-clicking.

If you can't find an app, simply type its name at the top search bar.

You can even drag and drop an app on top of another to create a folder.

Spotlight Search: Full or Partial Name and You're In

To find and open apps on your MacBook, you have the option of using Spotlight Search. Spotlight Search allows you to quickly locate documents, emails, photos, contacts, and apps on your MacBook. It is particularly user-friendly if you already know the name of the app you are searching for. Instead of presenting you with a vast library, Spotlight Search requires you to enter the app's name and provides you with the matching results.

There are two methods to activate Spotlight Search on your MacBook. You can either press the F4 button on your keyboard or simultaneously press the Command and Space keys. Both options will lead you to a text field where you can enter your desired keywords.

Begin typing the name of the app you desire. As you enter the app's name, the search results will be displayed in real-time. Locate and click on the most relevant search result.

Ask Siri: Find Your App by Voice

If you want a simple way to open an app without manually searching for it, just ask Siri. Apple's voice assistant is not only available on iPhones but also on iPads and MacBooks. In addition to setting timers, taking screenshots, and toggling Wi-Fi, Siri can also open apps for you.

To do this, simply say, "Hey Siri, open [app name]." If this doesn't work, make sure Siri is enabled and set up on your MacBook. If you found this article helpful, consider checking out another informative piece on 5 macOS settings to personalize on your new MacBook.