Mac app not responding? Close it and check why it froze

If the app responds again, save the open document before you quit it. If the menus are still usable, you can open the Force Quit window from the Apple menu. Select only the app that has stopped responding. For Finder, select Finder and click Relaunch.

Reopen the app and check for recovered work. If it freezes when you open one particular document, try another file or a new blank document. If those open normally, keep the original file and make a copy before attempting repairs or trying another compatible app. If the freeze happens with several files, check for updates from the App Store or the app developer and confirm that the app supports your macOS version.

If Force Quit will not open but the Apple menu still works, try Restart from the Apple menu. If the Mac will not restart, hold the power button until it switches off. On a Mac laptop with Touch ID, use the Touch ID button. A forced shutdown can lose unsaved work in any open app. Press the power button again to start the Mac.

If the app freezes again, note its version, your macOS version and the action that triggered it. If it started after adding a plug-in or connecting a new peripheral, check compatibility and retest without that add-on if it is safe to disconnect or disable. Back up anything stored only in the app before you consider reinstalling it.