macOS defaults

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Default search scope ​

Set the default search scope when performing a search

  • Tested on macOS:
    • Sonoma
    • Ventura
    • Monterey
    • Big Sur
  • Parameter type: string

Set to SCcf ​

Search the current folder

bash
defaults write com.apple.finder "FXDefaultSearchScope" -string "SCcf" && killall Finder

Set to SCsp ​

Use the previous search scope

bash
defaults write com.apple.finder "FXDefaultSearchScope" -string "SCsp" && killall Finder

Set to SCev (default value) ​

Search this Mac

bash
defaults write com.apple.finder "FXDefaultSearchScope" -string "SCev" && killall Finder

Read current value ​

bash
defaults read com.apple.finder "FXDefaultSearchScope"

Reset to default value ​

bash
defaults delete com.apple.finder "FXDefaultSearchScope" && killall Finder