macOS Guide 2025

Essential macOS Terms

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of macOS, including explanations of key features and navigation elements that every Mac user should know.

• Menu Bar: A persistent horizontal bar located at the top of the macOS screen that displays application menus, system controls (like battery and Wi-Fi), and notifications.
• Apple Menu: Located at the far-left of the menu bar, it provides access to system-wide settings, software updates, and options to shut down or restart the Mac.
• Dock: A customisable strip typically located at the bottom (or side) of the screen that provides quick access to frequently used applications, files, and folders.
• Spotlight Search: A powerful system-wide search feature that allows users to quickly find files, applications, settings, and information on their Mac and even perform web searches.
• Control Center: Accessible from the menu bar, it offers quick access to frequently used system settings such as brightness, volume, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.