How do I find downloaded email attachments and files on Mac?
Direct Answer
Click the blue smiling face icon (Finder) on the left of your Dock at the bottom, then click the "Downloads" folder in the sidebar.
Why You Might Want to Do This
- To open PDFs, medical receipts, flight tickets, or recipes you saved from Safari, Chrome, or Mail.
- To locate files before attaching them to a new message.
Before You Start
- Have your Mac awake with the Dock visible along the bottom or side of the screen.
Safari, Chrome, and Apple Mail all deposit saved documents into your Mac "Downloads" folder by default.
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
1
Click the Finder icon on the Dock
Move your mouse to the far left side of the bottom Dock and click the blue square smiling face icon labeled "Finder."
👀 Blue and white smiling two-tone face icon.
-
2
Click "Downloads" in the left sidebar
In the sidebar on the left side of the Finder window, click the folder named "Downloads" (or press Option + Command + L).
👀 Folder labeled "Downloads" with down arrow.
-
3
Sort by "Date Added" to see recent files first
Click the small gear/grouping icon at the top of the window, or click the column header "Date Added" so the newest download sits at the very top.
👀 Date Added column or Grouping button.
-
4
Double-click the file to open it
Double-click the file icon to open it in Preview, Word, or your favorite photo app.
👀 Double-click to open file.
If your screen matches the description above, you have followed the steps correctly. Continue to the next step.
If You Don't See It / Troubleshooting
If you want to quickly peek at a file without opening an app
Click the file once in Finder and press the SPACEBAR on your keyboard. A large "Quick Look" preview opens instantly! Press Spacebar again to close it.
Good to Know
- You can drag any file from your Downloads folder onto your Desktop for easy access.
- You also have a Downloads shortcut stack directly on the right side of your bottom Dock next to the Trash can.