Lost desktop and screenshots on MacBook Pro

I have lost my desktop. The message is 'The operation can't be completed because the item can't be found. I did some screenshots and can't find them either. Is there a desktop folder where they are located? I am running 2021 MacBook Pro M1 chip using Tahoe 26.1. Looking forward to some advise

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 26.1

Posted on Dec 6, 2025 3:28 PM

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1 reply

Dec 6, 2025 4:55 PM in response to damacgreenguy

damacgreenguy wrote:

I have lost my desktop. The message is 'The operation can't be completed because the item can't be found. I did some screenshots and can't find them either. Is there a desktop folder where they are located? I am running 2021 MacBook Pro M1 chip using Tahoe 26.1. Looking forward to some advise


Shift Command 5 >>OPtions make changes


Take screenshots or screen recordings on Mac - Apple Support




then you can go back to the traditional

Shift Command 3

Shift Command 4

Take a screenshot on your Mac

Take a screenshot on Mac - Apple Support



Verify you have Desktop showing— Turn off the bells and whistle until you get it sorted:

Lost desktop and screenshots on MacBook Pro

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