How to Minimize a Window on Mac

Are you using a Mac and wondering how to minimize a window? Minimizing a window can help you declutter your screen and keep your workspace organized. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the steps to minimize a window on your Mac.

Method 1: Using the Minimize Button

The easiest way to minimize a window on your Mac is by using the minimize button. The minimize button is located at the top-left corner of every window in macOS.

To minimize a window:

1. Locate the Red Button: Look for a small red circle at the top-left corner of the window.
2. Click the Red Button: Click on the red button once, and voila! Your window will be minimized and moved to the Dock. You can identify it by its icon.

Note: The Dock is a bar at the bottom (by default) or side of your screen that contains app icons, including minimized windows.

Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts for quick actions, macOS offers convenient shortcuts to minimize windows. Here’s how:

1. Select the Window: Click on the window you want to minimize to make sure it’s active.
2. Press Command + M: Hold down the Command key (⌘) on your keyboard and press M. The selected window will immediately be minimized to the Dock.

Note: The Command key is also known as the Apple key and is often represented by the ⌘ symbol.

Method 3: Using the Window Menu

The Window menu in macOS provides another way to minimize windows. Here’s how:

1. Locate the Window Menu: At the top of your screen, find the menu bar for the active application. Click on the “Window” menu.
2. Select Minimize: In the Window menu, you’ll see an option called “Minimize.” Click on it to minimize the active window.

Note: Not all applications may have a dedicated Window menu. In such cases, you can use Method 1 or Method 2 to minimize windows.

Method 4: Using Trackpad Gestures

If you’re using a MacBook with a trackpad, macOS offers useful gestures for window management. To minimize a window using trackpad gestures:

1. Swipe Down with Three Fingers: Place three fingers on your trackpad and swipe downwards in one smooth motion. The active window will be minimized and sent to the Dock.

In Conclusion

Minimizing windows on your Mac is effortless with these methods at your disposal. Whether you prefer using buttons, keyboard shortcuts, menus, or trackpad gestures, macOS has you covered. Choose the method that suits you best and keep your workspace neat and tidy!

I hope this tutorial has been helpful in teaching you how to minimize windows on your Mac. Happy window management!