Finder vs Pathfinder.
One of the newest apps I use all the time is Pathfinder. In Windows, the way to navigate through your computer’s inventory is through what they call Explorer. It is much improved in Vista/Windows 7 over XP. In the Mac world, the way to traverse through your computer is through what they call Finder. I’ve grown to enjoy Finder over Explorer because it is simply more simple than Explorer.
However, Pathfinder takes the Mac Finder to a new level. To see its full functionality, see the Pathfinder screencast. But here are a few of my favorite and most used items (I’m honestly just learning to use the vast array of tools in Pathfinder).
One click movement through files and folder (this is the same as Finder).
Quick-link drop-down menus allow for faster navigation to your files and folders.
Tabbed browsing allows for multiple file locations to be accessed easily and quickly.
Multiple view capabilities – for example, I may want to use both the columns view with the cover flow view.
Setting up two view panes in the same window allows for much easier drag and drop of files from one place to another.
Fully customizable tool bar puts the items for one-click navigation within easy range.
Finding recently used file, documents, and applications is very simple and can all be done right within Pathfinder.
I also find myself using the app launcher through Pathfinder also. It is a very quick and easy way to find the app your ready to open.
There are many more features, and the Pathfinder screencast will demonstrate most of them. This is a tool well worth the price.
