Edited by Tejas Telkar · Published · Updated
Short answer
In Finder, right-click a file, hold Option and choose Copy as Pathname. NotchPop also offers Copy path in its file-drop actions. A pathname is text pointing to a location on your Mac; it does not send the file's contents to another person.
Use the built-in Finder action
A tool that asks for a file location often needs a pathname rather than the document pasted onto the clipboard. In Finder, locate the exact file, open its shortcut menu and hold Option to reveal Copy as Pathname. Paste the result into a harmless text field first if you want to inspect what was copied.
The path identifies folders and the filename. It may reveal your account name, client names or project structure, so inspect it before posting it publicly. Renaming or moving the source can change the location a saved path refers to.
Copy a path while staging a file
- Drag a local file onto the NotchPop island.
- Choose Copy path from the offered file actions when you need its location as text.
- Paste into the receiving field and check that the path points to the intended file.
- Use the destination tool's own instructions for quoting or selecting paths with spaces.
A shell command and a graphical file-location field do not necessarily interpret pasted text the same way. Avoid improvising a command around an unfamiliar path. In a terminal, spaces and special characters require appropriate handling; use a tool's documented input method rather than assuming every pasted path is ready to execute.
Choose an attachment when someone needs the contents
A colleague generally cannot open your local Downloads path from their own computer. If they need the actual image or PDF, attach it, use an approved shared location or send it through the appropriate transfer flow. Copying the pathname is useful for local references and tools, not a substitute for file sharing.
The AirDrop workflow handles a nearby device handoff, while the file shelf guide explains dragging staged files into a destination. If an input expects a file upload, use its picker or attach the real file rather than pasting a path into an unrelated text box. Verify the received content separately from the copied location.
Sources and editorial notes
Published by NotchPop, the maker of the app. macOS instructions and third-party claims are linked to the sources below. Settings and offers can change between versions. Read our editorial approach or send a correction.
