Keep a folder or drive out of Spotlight search

Why it happens

Spotlight keeps an index of almost everything on your Mac so it can find things fast. Anything you add to Search Privacy is left out of that index. That's handy for a private folder, a backup drive, or a project folder full of files that crowd your results.

How to fix it

1. Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, and click Spotlight in the sidebar.

2. Click Search Privacy….

   Spotlight›Search Privacy…

3. Click the add button (+), pick the folder or drive, and click Choose. You can also drag a folder from Finder straight into the list.

4. Click Done. Search for something inside that folder to check it no longer shows up.

Still not fixed?

1. Searches in Finder use the same index, so they won't find files in that folder either. Open the folder and browse it when you need something from it.

2. Changed your mind? Open Search Privacy… again, select the folder, and click the remove button (−).

3. Still seeing results from it? Give Spotlight a little time, especially for a big drive. If they don't go, remove the folder from the list and add it again.

4. If excluded files keep appearing after a restart, contact Apple Support. The Spotlight index may need a closer look.