The macOS serves as a central hub for launching and managing applications instantly. It provides access to frequently used programs. You use the dock to pin and launch apps and display active applications which makes it easier to switch between tasks. The intuitive design of the dock helps enhance efficiency while streamlining navigation.
In simple terms, the dock is a way to get to apps like Finder in a few clicks. While some macOS users use the dock only to open and switch apps; most never even get beyond the default setting. However, it offers much more than what we know.
In addition to customization options, Apple also offers plenty of ways to improve the dock’s functionality.
Remove Recently Used Apps in the Dock
The main function of the Dock is to show you recent apps you have used. That’s why it is there on macOS. This simplifies the way you access the most common apps you use every day. However, too many apps can simply clutter the Dock, which can be agitating, especially if you are using multiple apps to do everyday tasks.
Having too many apps on the Dock also means you are not making the most of it. A disorganized dock discourages its intended use. For optimized use, the dock should prioritize essential apps that you use the most rather than accommodate random apps you have used recently.
If you wonder how to show applications on Mac dock the right way, here’s a tip. Go to the Apple menu, select System Preferences, then click on Dock & Menu Bar. Unselect the checkbox linked to displaying recent applications in the dock.
Place System Preferences in the Dock
If you think there are some must-have apps stored on your MacBook, and you need to access them often, it’s a good idea to place System Preference on the Dock. You must be wondering why. Right? This will save the time you spend on opening the System preferences.
For swift adjustment of settings, skip multiple steps you follow to navigate to the System Preferences. Place and use the System Preferences icon from the dock instead for speedy access to the Apple ID, Time and Date, BlueTooth, and more.
If you haven’t pinned any of these apps already, right click on the System Preferences icon in the dock, select Options, and then tap Keep in Dock for quick access. It’s simple and a handy trick indeed. Isn’t it?
Make Apps Readable in the Dock
This is an advanced tip to optimize the dock on Mac that demands you to be tech savvy. You won’t find this option in the system settings, and need to use the Terminal (Apple’s command line tool) to add space between apps in the dock to categorize them in an organized manner.
Open a terminal window on your MacBook to add spacer to the dock. You can open it from Spotlight or from the Utilities folder in apps. Then type in the following command.
“defaults write com.apple.dock persistent-apps -array-add ‘{tile-data={}; tile-type=”spacer-tile”;}’ && killall Dock”
Press Enter and the screen will start flashing. A spacer will be added at the end of the dock and appears like an app. Click and drag it between apps to add space. To remove the spacer from your dock, simply drag it up on the desktop and hold for a few seconds till it disappears.
Try Genie Effect to Optimize Dock
The tip we are going to discuss in this section is about adding minimization, which is also referred to as the genie effect. Once you enable this setting, the windows on your Mac will fold down neatly to fit in the dock.
Although this effect looks beautiful, it could be time consuming when you have larger windows on Mac. In addition, it consumes your system resources leading to quick discharge of battery. You can swap it with the alternative option, named the Scale effect.
To optimize the dock using this effect, go to the Apple menu. Click System Preferences and Select Dock & Menu Bar. Click the submenu displayed under Minimize windows using option and select Scale effect. Now when you minimize the windows on Mac, you will notice the change.
Wrapping Up
Dock is a useful tool that helps improve productivity on macOS, particularly when you are too busy working in multiple apps. Optimizing the dock regularly will help you handle different apps quite efficiently and multitask seamlessly.
The methods mentioned above for optimizing the dock for better productivity will allow users to work effectively on Mac. Plus, they will make the dock look more organized. Make sure to perform these tips carefully. Before making any changes to your system settings, it is advised to backup data to avoid losing access to important files or apps.
