1. Update macOS & Apps

Keep your system and apps up to date via System Settings > General > Software Update. Also update apps via App Store or manually.

2. Manage Startup Items

Go to System Settings > General > Login Items. Remove unnecessary login and background items.

3. Free Up Disk Space

Use Storage Management (Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage > Manage). Delete unused apps, files, and clear ~/Library/Caches.

4. Disable Unused System Features

Disable Siri, reduce Spotlight indexing, and limit notifications.

5. Monitor Resource Usage

Use Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities). Sort by CPU or Memory and quit heavy apps.

6. Manage Memory Pressure

Check Activity Monitor > Memory tab. If memory is consistently pressured, consider upgrading RAM.

7. Declutter the UI

Reduce motion and transparency in System Settings > Accessibility > Display. Remove unused widgets and desktops.

8. Reset SMC & NVRAM (Intel Macs only)

Reset SMC: Shut down > Shift+Control+Option+Power. Reset NVRAM: Reboot > Hold Option+Command+P+R for 20

seconds.macOS Optimization Guide

9. Remove Malware/Adware

Use Malwarebytes or ClamXAV to scan and remove malware or adware.

10. Use Optimization Tools (Optional)

Tools like CleanMyMac X, OnyX, or Sensei can simplify cleanup and monitoring tasks.

11. Reboot Weekly

Restart your Mac regularly to refresh system processes and memory.