Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

How to Get Rid of the Spinning Wheel

I have a 2011 Macbook Pro os Catalina. I know how to stop a single instance of the spinning wheel by pressing Command, Option, Esc, but lately it has become more frequent and longer lasting. Per another Apple community recommendation, checked available storage space--fine. Then did a Safe Mode Boot. Still have the problem--would appreciate help!!


Thank you!

MacBook

Posted on Aug 8, 2020 12:23 PM

Reply
Question marked as Apple recommended

Please determine if the same problems occur while using your Mac in "Safe Mode": Use safe mode to isolate issues with your Mac.


Back up your Mac as a matter of course. To learn how to use Time Machine please read Back up your files with Time Machine on Mac.


Given that Mac's age, its hard disk drive might be on its way out. Safe Mode is likely to confirm that possibility if it's just as slow in Safe Mode. They are easily replaced, and preferably upgraded to a Solid State Drive.

Posted on Aug 8, 2020 12:44 PM

1 reply
Question marked as Helpful

Aug 9, 2020 7:57 AM in response to John Galt

Thanks for the quick response! I did try using First Aid in Disk Utility last night on all my drives. So far, seems to be working--if there is any regression, I will try your safe mode idea. I did use someone's suggestion of logging in to safe mode, but then I just restarted, so haven't tried any functionality in safe mode.


Thank you!!

2 replies
Question marked as Apple recommended

Aug 8, 2020 12:44 PM in response to AliceBC1

Please determine if the same problems occur while using your Mac in "Safe Mode": Use safe mode to isolate issues with your Mac.


Back up your Mac as a matter of course. To learn how to use Time Machine please read Back up your files with Time Machine on Mac.


Given that Mac's age, its hard disk drive might be on its way out. Safe Mode is likely to confirm that possibility if it's just as slow in Safe Mode. They are easily replaced, and preferably upgraded to a Solid State Drive.

Question marked as Helpful

Aug 9, 2020 7:57 AM in response to John Galt

Thanks for the quick response! I did try using First Aid in Disk Utility last night on all my drives. So far, seems to be working--if there is any regression, I will try your safe mode idea. I did use someone's suggestion of logging in to safe mode, but then I just restarted, so haven't tried any functionality in safe mode.


Thank you!!

How to Get Rid of the Spinning Wheel

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.