how to free up space on startup disk macbook pro

If you're experiencing a lack of free space on your MacBook Pro's startup disk, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially free up some space. In this article, we'll walk you through the process.

Step 1: Run First Aid from Disk Utility

If you've deleted files but still don't see an increase in available storage space on your Macintosh HD, you can try running First Aid from Disk Utility to force TRIM operation on your Mac SSD. This may help to recover any lost space. To do this, restart your MacBook Pro and immediately press and hold the Shift key. Release the key when you see the Apple logo. Then, open Disk Utility and select your startup disk (Macintosh HD). Click the First Aid tab and follow the prompts.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

If running First Aid doesn't free up enough space, try booting your MacBook Pro in Safe Mode. This can help to identify and fix any errors that may be preventing you from seeing available storage space. To boot into Safe Mode:

1. Restart your MacBook Pro.

2. Immediately press and hold the Shift key.

3. Release the key when you see the Apple logo.

Step 3: Check Storage Disk Usage

Once in Safe Mode, open the Finder window and navigate to the Storage tab. This will display storage disk usage according to file types. Look for any large files or folders that may be taking up unnecessary space. You can also use this opportunity to empty your Trash and delete any files you no longer need.

Step 4: Check for macOS Errors

If running First Aid and booting into Safe Mode don't free up enough space, it's possible that there is an underlying macOS error preventing you from seeing available storage space. In this case, try restarting your MacBook Pro in normal mode and see if the issue persists.

Freeing up space on your MacBook Pro's startup disk can be a straightforward process if you know where to look. By running First Aid, booting into Safe Mode, checking storage disk usage, and identifying any underlying macOS errors, you should be able to recover some or all of the lost space on your Macintosh HD.

How to free up space on startup disk macbook pro