How to Fix macOS App Crashes and Freezes

In the last lesson, we tackled macOS updates that get stuck or fail to install. I shared how I faced this issue when my MacBook refused to update to the latest macOS version. We explored solutions like freeing up storage, resetting NVRAM, and using Safe Mode to fix the problem. Now, let’s move on to another common macOS software issue: app crashes and freezes. This is something I’ve dealt with multiple times, especially when using heavy apps like Photoshop or Final Cut Pro. If your Mac apps are crashing or freezing, don’t worry—this guide will help you troubleshoot and fix the problem.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to offer accurate troubleshooting steps, we are not responsible for any damage that may occur to your device by following these instructions. Proceed at your own risk, and if unsure, consult a professional technician.

Understanding macOS App Crashes and Freezes

App crashes and freezes happen when a program stops working suddenly or becomes unresponsive. I’ve faced this issue with apps like Safari and Slack, which would freeze mid-task. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re working on something important. The good news is that most app crashes are caused by simple issues like low memory, corrupted cache, or software conflicts. By learning how to diagnose and fix these problems, you can save time and avoid losing your work.

Use Force Quit to Close Unresponsive Apps

When an app freezes, the first thing I do is use the Force Quit feature. This is a quick way to close apps that are not responding. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Press Command + Option + Esc to open the Force Quit window.

2. Select the app that’s frozen.

3. Click “Force Quit.”

For example, when Safari froze while I was browsing, I used Force Quit to close it and then reopened the app. This solved the issue instantly. If Force Quit doesn’t work, you can also restart your Mac to close all running apps.

Check Activity Monitor for Problematic Processes

Sometimes, an app may crash because it’s using too much memory or CPU. I’ve found the Activity Monitor to be a lifesaver in such cases. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open Activity Monitor from Applications > Utilities.

2. Look for the app that’s causing trouble.

3. Check the CPU and Memory tabs to see if the app is using too many resources.

4. If the app is using too much memory, select it and click the “X” button to quit the process.

For instance, when Final Cut Pro was crashing, I noticed it was using 90% of my CPU. Quitting the process and reopening the app fixed the issue.

Clear Cache and Reinstall the App

Corrupted cache files can also cause apps to crash. I’ve had to clear cache files for apps like Chrome and Spotify to fix crashes. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open Finder and go to ~/Library/Caches.

2. Find the folder for the app that’s crashing.

3. Delete the cache files.

4. Reinstall the app from the App Store or the developer’s website.

For example, when Spotify kept crashing, I cleared its cache and reinstalled the app. This resolved the issue, and the app worked smoothly afterward.

Check for Software Conflicts

Software conflicts occur when two apps or processes interfere with each other. I once faced this issue when a third-party plugin caused Photoshop to crash. To check for conflicts:

1. Restart your Mac in Safe Mode by holding the Shift key during startup.

2. Open the app that’s crashing and see if it works.

If it does, the issue might be caused by a third-party app or plugin.

For example, when I removed the problematic plugin, Photoshop stopped crashing. You can also check for updates for your apps and macOS to ensure compatibility.

Conclusion

Fixing macOS app crashes and freezes doesn’t have to be complicated. By using tools like Force Quit and Activity Monitor, clearing cache, and checking for software conflicts, you can solve most issues quickly. I’ve used these steps multiple times, and they’ve saved me from losing important work. If you’re still facing issues, consider reaching out to Apple Support or the app’s developer for help. Don’t forget to check out the previous lesson on fixing macOS updates if you missed it. Stay tuned for more tips on solving common MacBook issues!