Set Up Repos Folder on Mac/Linux
Each project has its own folder. We need one place on the machine to keep all project folders together.
This page explains how to create a Repos/ folder to hold project folders.
WHY?
Keep your projects outside any cloud-sync folders like iCloud's Desktop or Documents.
Git projects can get very large, and automatic cloud syncing can interfere with project files and development tools.
This ensures smoother performance and avoids syncing unnecessary temporary files from your GitHub Python projects.
Do NOT create this folder inside a location that is automatically synced, such as OneDrive, iCloud Drive, Google Drive, or Dropbox.
We recommend creating a dedicated folder named ~/Repos (short for repositories).
Mac Task 1. Create ~/Repos Directory
- Click the Finder icon in your Dock to open a new Finder window.
- Access Your Home Directory: In the Finder menu bar
- at the top of your screen, click Go, then select Home.
- Alternatively, press Command + Shift + H to open your Home folder.
- Right-click (or Control-click) in the Home folder and select New Folder.
- Name the folder Repos.
Important
- Use Repos (with a capital R), to keep paths consistent with instructions.
- Verify the folder is directly in your Home folder (~/Repos), not inside another folder like Documents or Desktop.
- Ensure this folder is NOT being backed up by iCloud if you have iCloud syncing enabled for your Desktop or Documents. To check: Go to System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud > iCloud Drive > Options and ensure "Desktop & Documents Folders" is unchecked.
Verify on Mac
Your terminal should be your machine's native shell (usually zsh or bash) and open in the Repos folder.
From in the Repos directory, you should be able to see ~/Repos $ or Repos % in the terminal prompt.
Success
Once verified, this folder is ready to hold your GitHub project repositories.
You only need to create a ~/Repos folder once.