Setting a Text Editor as Default for Multiple Files in OS X

Managing multiple files efficiently on a Mac operating system can be streamlined by setting your preferred text editor as the default application for these files. This guide will walk you through the process of making a text editor the default for all appropriate files at once, using the CMD-OPT-i command in OS X.

Understanding CMD-OPT-i

One of Apple's powerful features in OS X is the ability to view detailed information about multiple files at once using the CMD-OPT-i command. By selecting the target files, launching this command, and adjusting the default application, you can quickly set your primary text editor as the default for all these files.

Step-by-Step Guide

Select the Files

To begin, you need to select the files you want to set as default for a specific application. This can easily be done by clicking and holding down the 'Command' (?) key and dragging your mouse over the files you wish to select. This multi-selection feature in Finder is particularly useful when dealing with a large number of files with the same extension.

Open CMD-OPT-i

Once you have multiple files selected, you will need to use the CMD-OPT-i keyboard shortcut. This shortcut opens the 'Get Info' window for these files, which includes detailed information about each file.

Included in the information window, you will see a panel that displays the current default application associated with the selected files. This is where you can change the application to your preferred text editor.

Change the Default Application

Within the 'Get Info' window, locate and click on the section labeled 'Open with'. A dropdown menu will appear, allowing you to select your default text editor. After making this selection, it will automatically be set as the default application for the selected files. The next time these files are opened, your chosen text editor will be the default.

Verify the Change

To ensure that your changes have been saved and the new default application is set correctly, you can attempt to open one of the selected files. OS X should now launch your specified text editor automatically.

Conclusion

By utilizing the CMD-OPT-i command and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently set a text editor as the default application for multiple files on your Mac. This not only saves you time in the long run but also streamlines your workflow, making it easier to manage and work with your files.

Additional Tips

Consistency: To maintain consistency across your workflow, it's recommended to set a single text editor as the default for a specific file type throughout your project. Backup: Always ensure that your data is backed up before making significant changes to your file associations. Customization: Explore other preferences and settings in OS X to further customize your experience with different text editors and file types.

Ultimately, streamlining your workflow and making your tools work for you can significantly enhance your productivity and efficiency, especially when working with large projects involving multiple text files.