Go to the parent folder on macOS

By mkyong | Updated: January 23, 2021

Viewed: 5,961 (+13 pv/w)

Tags: mac mac tips

This article shows how to use a keyboard shortcut to access the parent folder or any item or folder on macOS.

1. Go to the parent folder. (Command + Up Arrow)

In Finder, we can press Command + ↑ to access the parent folder of any item or folder.

1.1 For example, in Finder, this path /usr/local/Cellar/nginx

1.2 Press Command + ↑ together will access the parent folder /usr/local/Cellar/

2. Enclosing folder

In official terms, macOS called the parent folder as enclosing folder.

In Finder, select Go -> Enclosing folder to access the parent folder or enclosing folder. Review the shortcut of Enclosing folder, it is the same Command + ↑

3. Is there a left arrow icon for the parent folder?

In Finder, the left arrow access the folder you views previously, not the parent folder.

References

• How to go to a specified folder on macOS
• Mac keyboard shortcuts