How to create a Finder shortcut
Applies to: Faculty, Staff
Revised: 2026-08-25
Status: Approved
Answers the questions:
- How to create a Finder shortcut (alias) on macOS
Overview
This document will explain how to create a shortcut (alias) to a file or folder, useful when you have a network share drive folder you may need to access quickly from your desktop in macOS. For Windows, please check: How to create a file explorer shortcut
You can also check out: How to map a network drive on macOS
Steps to making a shortcut (alias)
- Open Finder and navigate to the file or folder you wish to create a shortcut
- Right-click (or control ^ - click) the target item or folder.
- Select make alias.
- Drag the newly created alias file to your desktop or any preferred location. Double-clicking this alias will automatically mount a network share drive and open the folder.
An Alias folder will have an arrow icon on the bottom left, letting you know its an Alias.
