If you’re still renaming files one by one… I have questions. Like, are you okay? Do you need a snack? A nap? Because this tiny hack is about to save you hours and make your desktop look so much more put-together.

Beyond looking organised (and saving your sanity), consistent file names actually help with search-ability and SEO. Which means not only can you find things faster, but Google can too.

Here’s how to batch rename like a pro on any MacBook or iMac: Watch Tiktok video here.

Step 1. Select all the files you want to rename.

Step 2. Right click → hit Rename.

Step 3. Switch the dropdown from Replace Text to Format.

Step 4. Add your new file name under Custom Format.

Pro tip: I live for “Name & Index” because it keeps things clean (hello, brand-product-1.jpg, brand-product-cool-2.jpg, brand-product-cool-3.jpg). But you can also go with Name & Counter or Name & Date if you’re feeling spicy. You can even start your numbering at 401 if that brings you joy. No judgement here.

Best practices from a fussy file-namer:

• Always use hyphens instead of spaces.
• Start with the brand/client name for SEO brownie points.
• Add the product title in the name so you can easily search for it in your Shopify gallery.
• Sentence case looks chic. Is that backed by science? Unsure. Does it make me happy? Yes.

And that’s it. Seconds of effort, days of life saved. You’re welcome.