MacOS Finder: How to delete files using keyboard keys

MacOS Finder FAQ: How can I delete a file or directory in the Mac Finder using the keyboard (i.e., a keyboard keystroke)?

By now you’ve probably figured out that you can’t just delete a file in the Mac Finder using the [delete] key. The solution:

  1. Select the files and/or folders you want to delete in the Finder, then
  2. Press the [command][delete] keyboard keys at the same time.

Your files should disappear from the Mac Finder, and assuming you have your volume turned on, you’ll hear the familiar crunching noise of the files going into the Trash.