How to Delete Apps on Mac: A Simple Guide

If you're a Mac user, you may find yourself wanting to declutter your system by removing apps you no longer use. Deleting apps on a Mac is a straightforward process, but if you're new to the platform, it can be a bit confusing at first. In this guide, we'll walk you through the various methods you can use to delete apps on your Mac, ensuring you free up space and keep your system running smoothly.

Why Delete Apps on Your Mac?

Before we dive into the steps, it's important to understand why you might want to delete apps in the first place. Over time, you may accumulate apps that you no longer use, which can take up valuable storage space on your Mac. Removing these apps can help free up space, improve your Mac's performance, and keep your system organized.

Method 1: Removing Apps from the Applications Folder

The most common way to delete apps on a Mac is through the Applications folder. This method is simple and effective for most users.

Steps:

1. Open the Finder: Click on the Finder icon in your Dock to open a Finder window.
2. Go to the Applications Folder: In the Finder window, select "Applications" from the sidebar. This will display a list of all the apps installed on your Mac.
3. Locate the App You Want to Delete: Scroll through the list and find the app you want to remove.
4. Drag the App to the Trash: Click and hold the app's icon, then drag it to the Trash icon in your Dock. Alternatively, you can right-click the app and select "Move to Trash."
5. Empty the Trash: To permanently delete the app, right-click the Trash icon in your Dock and select "Empty Trash." This will remove the app from your Mac entirely.

Tip: If you're trying to delete a built-in app that comes with macOS (like Safari or Mail), you'll notice that it can't be removed using this method. These apps are part of the operating system and can't be deleted.

Method 2: Deleting Apps from the Launchpad

If you prefer a more visual method, you can delete apps directly from the Launchpad, which is similar to deleting apps on an iPhone or iPad.

Steps:

1. Open Launchpad: Click on the Launchpad icon in your Dock (it looks like a rocket) to view all your apps.
2. Locate the App You Want to Delete: Find the app you wish to remove. If you have many apps, you might need to swipe left or right to find it.
3. Click and Hold the App Icon: Click and hold the app icon until it starts to jiggle.
4. Click the "X" Button: Once the app icons start jiggling, you’ll see a small "X" appear in the corner of apps that can be deleted. Click the "X" to delete the app.
5. Confirm Deletion: A prompt will appear asking you to confirm that you want to delete the app. Click "Delete" to remove it.

Note: This method works for apps downloaded from the Mac App Store. If the "X" doesn’t appear, it means the app wasn’t downloaded from the App Store, and you’ll need to use the Applications folder method.

Method 3: Using a Third-Party App Cleaner

Sometimes, apps leave behind residual files even after they've been deleted. To ensure a thorough cleanup, you might want to use a third-party app cleaner. These tools are designed to remove the app and any associated files that might be hidden elsewhere on your system.

Popular App Cleaners:

• AppCleaner: A free and easy-to-use app that lets you drag and drop the app you want to delete, and it will find and remove all related files.
• CleanMyMac X: A more comprehensive tool that not only helps delete apps but also optimizes your Mac’s performance. It’s available for a one-time purchase or a subscription, usually priced around ₹3,999 INR for a one-year subscription.

Steps:

1. Download and Install the App Cleaner: Visit the developer’s website to download the app cleaner of your choice.
2. Launch the App Cleaner: Open the app cleaner tool.
3. Select the App You Want to Delete: Drag the app’s icon into the app cleaner window, or select it from the list provided by the app cleaner.
4. Delete the App and Associated Files: Follow the on-screen instructions to remove the app and any associated files completely.

Tip: Always download third-party tools from reputable sources to avoid malware or unwanted software.

Method 4: Deleting Apps via the Terminal

If you're comfortable using the Terminal, you can also delete apps using command-line instructions. This method is more advanced and is usually recommended for users who are familiar with macOS's command-line interface.

Steps:

1. Open the Terminal: Go to "Applications" > "Utilities" and open the Terminal.
2. Enter the Command to Delete the App: Type the following command:

sudo rm -rf /Applications/AppName.app

Replace "AppName" with the name of the app you want to delete.

3. Enter Your Password: You’ll be prompted to enter your Mac's admin password. Type it in and press "Enter."
4. The App Will Be Deleted: The app and its contents will be permanently removed from your system.

Warning: Be cautious when using the Terminal to delete files, as it can remove important system files if the wrong command is entered.

Conclusion

Deleting apps on a Mac is a simple task once you know how to do it. Whether you prefer using the Finder, Launchpad, a third-party app cleaner, or the Terminal, each method has its benefits. Regularly cleaning up unused apps can help keep your Mac running efficiently and free up valuable storage space.

If you're ever unsure about deleting an app, remember that you can always reinstall it from the Mac App Store or the developer’s website if needed. Happy decluttering!