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How to customize Spotlight results on macOS

By default macOS’ Spotlight feature searches anywhere it can to populate results, both locally and on the web. However, especially with shared computers, you’ll want to dial down what it shows. Follow along to learn how to customize Spotlight results on macOS.

How to customize Spotlight results on macOS

  1. Open up System Preferences.
  2. Tap Spotlight in the top row.
  3. Uncheck the box next to each item you’d like to exclude.

In addition to hiding results recommended by the system, you can hide specific folders from the search as well. Simply tap the Privacy tab up top, tap the + icon, and select the folder you’d like to exclude.

For more help getting the most out of your Apple devices, check out our how to guide as well as the following articles:


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