How to Customize the Mac Dock

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Configure Dock settings

   Open System Settings from the Apple menu and select Desktop & Dock. Use the sliders to adjust the size of the Dock and modify the magnification level for when you hover over icons.

   Note: Hold Option while hovering over a divider to instantly toggle between sizes if your Dock is hidden.
2. 30 sec

   Remove unwanted applications

   Click and hold the icon of the application you wish to remove. Drag the icon vertically away from the Dock until the word Remove appears, then release the mouse button.

   Note: Removing an icon does not delete the application from your Mac.
3. 30 sec

   Pin new applications

   Open the Finder, navigate to your Applications folder, and locate the desired program. Click and drag the application icon into the Dock, placing it at your preferred position.

   Note: Alternatively, right-click an open app icon, select Options, and choose Keep in Dock.
4. 1 min

   Create a stack for files

   Drag any folder from the Finder to the right side of the Dock, near the Trash bin. Right-click the folder icon to change its view format to Grid, List, or Fan to browse contents quickly.

   Note: Use the Downloads folder stack to keep your recent files accessible without cluttering the desktop.
5. 30 sec

   Enable automatic hiding

   Return to System Settings > Desktop & Dock. Toggle the switch for Automatically hide and show the Dock to On. This creates more screen real estate for your active application windows.

   Note: The Dock will reappear instantly when you move your cursor to the edge of the screen where the Dock is positioned.