How to Fix Mac Question Mark Folder?
Last Updated :
03 Sep, 2024
It can be worrisome to see a question mark folder when your Mac first boots up. This icon usually means that there are boot troubles because your Mac cannot locate its starting disk. To fix the Mac question mark folder problem and restart your system, there are a few different approaches.
Whether the Mac question mark folder problem is the result of a faulty drive, a missing operating system, or another startup issue, we'll walk you through the steps to fix it in this article. You will be able to troubleshoot and solve the issue effectively if you adhere to these guidelines.
How to Fix Mac Question Mark Folder?
For fixing the Flashing Question Mark Folder on Mac, the following methods should be executed. We will start by checking the Startup Disk Selection.
Method 1: Resolve Question Mark on Mac by Selecting the Startup Disk
Step 1: Open the System Preferences & select the Startup Disk option.

Step 2: Make sure that the Macintosh HD Disk is selected. If not, change it by clicking on the Lock Symbol.

Hence, we have successfully resolved the Question Mark Folder problem on Mac by Selecting the Startup Disk.
Method 2: Resolve the Question Mark on Mac by Erasing the Disk Data
Step 1: While Restarting the device, press the Command + R button to open the Recovery Mode. Now, select the Disk Utility option.

Step 2: On the above menu bar, a few options will be present. Select the First Aid option to move ahead.

Step 3: The system will check all the issues on the disk & fix them. The report will be generated.

Hence, we have successfully resolved the Question Mark Folder problem on Mac by Erasing Disk Data.
Method 3: Resolve the Question Mark on the Mac by Reinstalling the Mac
Step 1: Enter into the Recovery Mode by pressing the Command + R button while restarting the device. Now, select the Disk Utility.

Step 2: Select the option Erase to remove every data from the system.

Step 3: Now, again select the Reinstall macOS option.

Step 4: Click on the Agree button to Continue the installation process.
Disclaimer: It is always advisable & good practice to read all the Terms & Conditions before giving any consent. So, read the terms carefully before proceeding.

Hence, we have successfully resolved the Question Mark Folder problem on Mac by Reinstalling MacOS.
Method 4: Resolve the Question Mark on Mac by Resetting the NVRAM
Step 1: While Restarting the Device, press the Command + Option + P + R button simultaneously for 20 seconds.
Step 2: When you receive the Second Apple Chrime sound, leave it to boot normally.
Hence, we have successfully resolved the Question Mark Folder problem on Mac by Resetting the NVRAM.
Method 5: Resolve the Question Mark on Mac by Resetting the SMC
Step 1: Press the Power Button for 10 seconds on the closed device.
Step 2: Along with the power button press, the Shift + Option + Control Keys for more than 10 seconds. The Apple Icon will be visible to remove.
Hence, we have successfully resolved the Question Mark Folder problem on Mac by Resetting the SMC.
Method 6: Resolve Question Mark on Mac by Terminal Utility
Step 1: In the Recovery Mode, entered by pressing the Command + R button while installing the device, click on the Utility option. And then select the Terminal option.

Step 2: In the terminal, execute the following command. It will help to remove & fix the issues of the Startup Disk on your Mac.
Command: csrutil disable

Hence, we have successfully resolved the Question Mark Folder problem on Mac by Using Terminal Utility.
Method 7: Resolve the Question Mark on Mac by Backing Up the Data
Step 1: Open the Time Machine application by opening the Spotlight Search.

Step 2: On the Time Machine, select the Backup Disk.

Step 2: If the Startup DIsk starts working normally, the Disk Name will come on the next window. Select it to back up all the erased data & fix the issue permanently.

Hence, we have successfully resolved the Question Mark Folder problem on Mac by Backing Up Data.
So, these are the simple methods you should execute to get complete recovery from the Flashing Folder with Question Mark issue on the Mac devices.
Fix Mac Question Mark FolderConclusion
If your system launches with a Mac question mark folder, it's not always a sign that everything is broken. You can frequently fix the Mac question mark folder and go back to normal functionality by following the correct procedures. You may restore your Mac to its normal performance by following the instructions in this article, regardless of whether you want to use recovery mode or verify your starting disk settings. To prevent problems later on, always make a backup copy of your data. If the issue still arises, you might want to consider getting expert assistance.
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