how to get my MacBook Pro (Mid 2012) caught up to date on updates?!

The model of MBP you have can only go to Catalina.

Here are the machines that can install Big Sur:

• MacBook (2015 and later)

• MacBook Air (2013 and later)

• MacBook Pro (late 2013 and later) ⬅︎ ⬅︎ ⬅︎

• Mac Mini (2014 and later)

• iMac (2014 and later)

• iMac Pro (2017 and later)

• Mac Pro (2013 and later)

If you want to upgrade to Catalina try this link: Catalina App Store link

Unfortunately the version of Garageband available requires you to be using Big Sur.

You do not need to upgrade to every macOS in-between you can go straight to Catalina.

When you click on Old Toads link make sure you are using your Safari browser.

Before upgrading make a full back up of your Mac.

Check that third party apps you use have updates available for the new OS.

https://roaringapps.com

Check that your printers/ scanners etc have updated drivers and software available for the new OS.

Connect your mac to your router via cable rather than rely on WiFi.

Do not use your mac while it is downloading

and do not use any other devices that share the same internet connection.

If the App Store says ‘Open’ then it is detecting a previous download of the install app

go to the Applications folder locate Install macOS Catalina.app.

Move it to the Trash, empty the Trash.

Restart, click on the link again, the App Store should say ‘Get' or 'Download'.

If you are considering upgrading to Catalina be warned tit does not support 32bit apps.

Your Mac is probably running 32bit apps and these will need to be updated to 64bit apps,

some updates may be free, some may be paid. Use this app to discover which apps you have

are 32bit, https://www.stclairsoft.com/Go64/ then contact the developers of the software to see

if they are providing 64bit updates or alternatives.

👍