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How do I move files on my computer instead of copying?

I want to move some files on my computer to another location without keeping the copy in the current directory. How to do it?

Best Answered by

iBoysoft author Jenny Zeng

Jenny Zeng

Answered on Tuesday, January 27, 2026

There are several ways to move instead of copying files on a computer.

The universal way that is applicable on Windows and macOS is to highlight the files you want to move, then drag and drop them to the destination folder. Besides, you can also choose one of the following ways to move files on your computer.

To move files on a Windows PC:

① Select the files you want to move, press Ctrl + X to cut them, then navigate to the destination folder and tap Ctrl + V to paste them.

② Select the files you want to move, right-click the highlighted files, then select Cut. Browse to the folder you want to move the files to, right-click in the folder, and select Paste.

To move files on a Mac:

① Select the files you want to move, press the shortcut Command + C, then open the folder you intend to move the files to and press Option + Command + V.

② Free download and install iBoysoft MagicMenu, a right-click Finder extension. Then right-click the files you want to move and click "Move to" to select a directory.

Also read:

How to Right Click on a Mac Using Magic Mouse, Trackpad, or Keyboard?

How to Copy and Paste Text/File/Folder on Mac?

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