Where Are Mac Finder Preferences Stored?
Finder keeps its preferences in a com.apple.finder.plist file, the reset switch for misbehaving windows and views.
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Finder's memory lives in one property list. Window sizes, view modes, sidebar entries, desktop settings, and path bar visibility all persist in com.apple.finder.plist under Preferences.
The file is the standard macOS troubleshooting lever: quit Finder, remove the plist, relaunch, and defaults return. Modern macOS caches preferences aggressively, so changes demand a relaunch to take effect. Editing raw plists works but the delete and relaunch loop fixes more with less risk.
Where macOS stores this, by platform
~/Library/Preferences/com.apple.finder.plist
View modes, sidebar, and desktop settings live here. Delete with Finder quit and relaunch to reset; use Go to Folder since Library stays hidden.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reset Finder to defaults?
Delete the plist and relaunch Finder by holding Option, right clicking its Dock icon, and choosing Relaunch. Defaults return and most view glitches leave with them. Desktop icon positions reset too, so screenshot the layout first.
Where are Finder view options stored?
Same file. Show path bar, show status bar, default view mode, and sidebar favorites all persist here. A managed or synced plist explains settings that refuse to stick.
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