How to show full path in macOS Finder

Showing the full path in macOS Finder allows users to see the exact location of files and folders. By default, Finder only displays the current directory's name, which can be limiting when navigating through multiple layers of folders. Adjusting settings to reveal the complete path provides clarity and improves file management.

This feature is particularly useful for those familiar with operating systems like Windows or Linux, where file managers typically display the full path by default. It helps users maintain a clear understanding of their location within the system, especially when working with complex directory structures.

Enabling the full path display can also aid in technical tasks, such as scripting or file management, where knowing the precise location of a file is crucial. It ensures users have immediate access to the information they need, streamlining their workflow in macOS.

1. Open Terminal from the Utilities folder.
2. Enter the command to enable full path display in the title bar.

   $ defaults write com.apple.finder _FXShowPosixPathInTitle -bool YES

   This command tweaks Finder's settings to display the full path in the title bar.

3. Restart Finder to apply the changes.

   $ killall Finder

   This command will relaunch the Finder, and you'll now see the full path in the title bar.

4. Navigate using Finder to see the full path in the title bar.
5. To disable the full path display, enter the command to revert the settings.

   $ defaults write com.apple.finder _FXShowPosixPathInTitle -bool NO

   and then restart the Finder again with

   $ killall Finder

6. Restart Finder again to hide the full path.