Rename Multiple Files on Your Mac in Seconds Using Finder
If you’ve ever tried renaming dozens of files one by one, you know how frustrating it can be. Thankfully, macOS includes a powerful batch rename feature built directly into Finder. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to quickly rename multiple files at once — saving time and keeping your photos and documents perfectly organized.
🎓 What You’ll Learn
How to rename a single file in Finder
How to select multiple files quickly
Where to find the Batch Rename feature
The difference between Replace Text, Add Text, and Format options
How to rename photos for easier organization and importing
Why batch renaming is useful before importing into Apple Photos
🖱️ Renaming a Single File (The Slow Way)
You can rename files one at a time by:
Clicking a file once to select it
Pausing briefly, then clicking the filename again
Typing a new name and pressing Return
This works — but not when you have dozens (or hundreds) of files.
⚡ Batch Renaming Multiple Files
Finder lets you rename multiple files at once:
Select multiple files
Click + drag
Command-click to select individual files
Command-A to select all
Right-click the selection
Choose Rename X Items…
This same option is also available from:
The Finder menu
The Action (gear) menu in the toolbar
macOS loves options — pick your favorite.
🧠 Batch Rename Options Explaine
When batch renaming, Finder gives you three main choices:
🔁 Replace Text
Find specific text in filenames and replace it with something else.
➕ Add Text
Append or prepend text while keeping the original filename intact.
🔢 Format
Completely rename files using:
A custom name
Numbers or indexes
Automatic sequencing
This is ideal for photos like:
Chicago-1
Chicago-2
Chicago-3
Fast, clean, and consistent.
📸 Why This Is Great for Photos
Renaming photos before importing them into Apple Photos means:
Easier searching later
Cleaner organization
Better context than random camera filenames
And don’t worry — renaming files does not delete or damage them.
You’re just saving yourself future headaches.