How to Set a Default Finder Window Folder

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Open Finder settings

   Click the Finder icon in your Dock to bring the application to the foreground. Select 'Finder' from the menu bar at the top of your screen, then click 'Settings' to open the configuration panel.

   Note: Alternatively, press Command + Comma while the Finder is active.
2. 15 sec

   Access General preferences

   Ensure the 'General' tab is selected in the Settings window. This tab houses the primary behavior controls for new Finder windows.

3. 15 sec

   Change the default startup folder

   Locate the dropdown menu labeled 'New Finder windows show:'. Click the menu to reveal the current selection, which is typically set to Recents by default.

4. 15 sec

   Choose a custom location

   Select 'Other...' from the bottom of the dropdown list. A file picker window will appear, allowing you to browse your directory structure.

5. 30 sec

   Set the directory

   Navigate to and select the specific folder you want to open by default. Once highlighted, click the 'Choose' button to finalize your selection.

   Note: The new folder path will now appear in the Finder settings menu.
6. 15 sec

   Test the new configuration

   Close the Settings window. Open a new Finder window to verify that your chosen folder appears immediately upon launch.

   Note: Command + N