How to Force Quit Mac Apps

We’ll show you two easy ways to force quit an app on your Mac, including the force quit Mac shortcut.

By Erin MacPherson Updated 02/28/2022

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When an app freezes but your computer is still responsive, you need to know how to force quit on a Mac to close an app and then reopen it. We’ll show you two ways to get to the Task Manager on a Mac, and what to do when you get there.

How to Force Quit Mac Apps

Let's get started learning how to force quit Mac apps. If your entire Mac is frozen and the cursor won't move, learn how to force quit a Mac instead. For more great advice on what to do when your Apple devices glitch or freeze, check out our free Tip of the Day.

The first step in learning how to force quit on a Mac is to open the Mac Task Manager. There are two ways to access the Task Manager on a Mac, but once you're there the process to force quit Mac apps is the same.

If you like Mac keyboard shortcuts, use option + cmd + esc to open the Task Manager.

Image courtesy of Apple
If you'd rather use the menu, click on the Apple icon in the upper-left corner of your screen and then click on Force Quit... or Force Quit [App Name].
When the Mac Task Manager pops up, click on the app you want to force close. The app will be highlighted.
Click Force Quit.
Click Force Quit again to confirm.

The app will close and you'll no longer see it in the Task Manager on your Mac. You can reopen the app if you choose. Next, learn how to use the exit full screen shortcut on your Mac.

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Topics

How-To

Mac

Troubleshooting

Author Details

Erin MacPherson

Erin is a Web Editor for iPhone Life and has been a writer, editor, and researcher for many years. She has a degree in communication with an emphasis on psychology and communication, and has spent many of her professional years as a coach in various business and specialty fields. Erin officially joined the ranks of iPhone and Apple users everywhere around nine years ago, and has since enjoyed the unique and customized feel of Apple technology and its many gadgets. When she’s not working, Erin and her son enjoy outdoor adventures, camping, and spending time with their eclectic collection of pets.

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