Auto resize columns in finder

Question

Level 1

11 points

Auto resize columns in finder

Hi,

I have directory structure with rather long directory names, which are getting shortened with ... in case column is narrower than directory name (column view, this is ok).

When moving files between folders I need complete name of target directory, therefore I need a feature/setting to expand column width automatically when hover over directory (auto resize?).

Note, expansion of name if hovering over is not sufficient, to be able to select correct target directory I need to be able to read all directory names.

Thanks

Blaz

Posted on May 9, 2021 1:11 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

blaz258

Level 1

4 points

May 14, 2021 11:51 PM in response to a brody

Hi,

thanks for your answer, unfortunately this is does not help me. I am looking for auto resize functionality.

To your answer:

I know I can resize column widths manually, but I do want to have it rather narrow to accumulate several columns at once. I need auto resize (dynamically) at the moment when I am moving my file (drag&drop) between directories and I dont have free mouse to resize the column (mouse is pressed since I am "holding" the file, which I am moving). Besides, manual resizing would make me buzzy with resizing columns ( e.g. I am searching for the correct directory, therefore I need to "browse" several directory levels ) instead of actually moving the file.

Side note: if you hover over exact position of directory (need to be very precise, right corner, which is very clumsy) directory name gets expanded. This would help a bit (but not completely since I would need to hover over many directories to find the right one..), but even this doesnt work properly, expanded directory name remains hidden behind file I am just dragging.

Best regards

Blaz

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Answer 2

bdemsar Author

Level 1

11 points

May 16, 2021 12:36 AM in response to BDAqua

Hi,

then this could be a useful enhancement request, work with finder is really clumsy and inefficient.

@directory name, just pick any longer, descritpitve name (e.g. conference_cadence_live_2021_05_01_post_layout_simulation)

Thanks

Blaz

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Answer 3

bdemsar Author

Level 1

11 points

May 17, 2021 12:28 AM in response to BDAqua

Hi,

I have a good reason why I name directories the way I do (e.g. in case above I need to have directories sorted by activity (conference, meeting etc..) and not by date, besides by shorting and shuffling names you cannot avoid long names.

Note, find etc mechanisms do not address the issue neither, this cannot be used for the daily works I have (organising, shifting files from one directory to another.

So, obviously there is no such feature, however it is really needed. I found other similar questions on net. Can you please take this as constructive feedback and consider it as feature request.

Thanks

Blaz

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Answer 4

a brody

Level 10

84,055 points

May 13, 2021 10:33 AM in response to bdemsar

The bottom of the column has little vertical hash lines that let you adjust the column size. If you have too many columns visible, then the adjustment is not possible. They do not auto-resize. However, you can always go to File menu and select Get Info on any selected file or folder to reveal the full name, if uncertain. Adjust the window size from the edges, if possible to reveal more room to view columns.

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