move files to external disk (and not copy)

[jbusc]

Hi, this might be a stupid question, but...

When dragging files to an external disk (or vice versa) in the Finder, the default behavior is just to "copy" the file leaving the file on the original disk - if I want to move the file, I have to either cut-and-paste, or copy and delete the file after copying. In windows, I can bring up the context menu while dragging and have it move instead.

Is there any way to, in one step, move files from one disk to another? Or is this just a limitation of finder? Thanks!!

 

[Blubbert]

Press and hold command as youre dragging and dropping, that will delete the original file, and move it.

 

[gauchogolfer]

Just for completeness, option-drag will force a copy, even if the file is on the same volume. And command-option-drag will make an alias to the file/folder.

Always good shortcuts to have at one's fingertips.

 

[jbusc]

Exactly, I love keyboard shortcuts

Thanks guys! I knew there was an easy "mac" way to do it

 

[ferocious dog]

Exactly, I love keyboard shortcuts

Thanks guys! I knew there was an easy "mac" way to do it

What if I don't want to have to hit command every time......... is there a setting I can change?

 

[satcomer]

Exactly, I love keyboard shortcuts

Thanks guys! I knew there was an easy "mac" way to do it

Bookmark the Apple Support document Mac Keyboard Shortcuts to research it for shortcuts.

To blow you mind, if you are connected to a wireless access point just hold down the option key will click on the Finder bar to see detailed connections.