Tip: How to copy/move files with only one window

[n8mac]

NOTE: I am doing this with Tiger

I have read complaints about how Windows Explorer is better than OS X Finder. One popular complaint is that it is impossible to copy/move a file from one folder to another folder outside the current one without two windows as Finder doesn't have a split window setup like Explorer. This simply isn't true. Mac OS X simply handles this differently than Windows. Heres how...

1. Open a window and go to the folder that you want to copy/move files to.
2. Drag that folder to your sidebar apple:+T)
3. Navigate to the folder that contains what you want to copy/move.
4. Drag your file(s) to the folder you just put in your sidebar to move them or hold 'option' and drag to copy them.
5. If you don't want the folder you copied to permanently in your sidebar just drag it out (poof).

If your needs are more robust and you want to copy/move between many folders you can drag as many folders to your sidebar as you can fit. Plus your folders will be just as you left them when you go back to them (with the exception of the view). The sidebar doesn't have to be permanent and is your friend .

 

[portent]

Alternatively:
1. View > as List
2. Expand the disclosure triangles as needed

Has worked this way since System 7.

 

[Ramashalanka]

Not a bad suggestion, but IMHO...

I still don't think it's as good as having the tree already there to the left. Putting in the sidebar takes time and can lead to mistakes (e.g. removing the wrong folder when you're finished).

If find the list view very cluttered with files and folders altogether (although I find it better than the other options).

I don't think it would cost apple to much trouble to add the possibility of a directory tree panel. Maybe there are M$ patent issues? In any case RAGE Macintosh Explorer works well.