how to delete files from start up disk

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Level 1

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how to delete files from start up disk

Please help. After my macbook air is on for 2-5 mins, it comes up with I need to delete files from my start up disk. I went into start up disk and the only thing in there is the OS X system. So, then a small box appears. and tells me my memory is full and that I need to force quit applications. Sometimes the only application that is on it is finder. At this point the macbook air then freezes and I have to turn it off holding the button down. When I go to turn it back on it will often not turn back on. This laptop is only 11months old and running the new OS X system (mountain Lion) that just came out.

Posted on Oct 7, 2012 5:26 PM

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Answer 1

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Power-PC

Level 2

160 points

Oct 7, 2012 10:26 PM in response to mykidsandme

When it says startup disk, it just means your hard drive. Open your documents, photos, pictures, etc folders and move some items to the trash and empty the trash.

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Answer 2

mykidsandme Author

Level 1

5 points

Oct 8, 2012 5:54 AM in response to Power-PC

I keep all my files on dropbox. This is what I am not understanding because most of my hardrive is free. I have no pics on my laptop, I have no documents. I use this for my dissertation only, which is why I keep everything on dropbox.

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Answer 3

mykidsandme Author

Level 1

5 points

Oct 8, 2012 5:56 AM in response to mykidsandme

therefore, there is nothing to delete. I have the basic stuff on my laptop. it is basically just like it was when it came out of the box, with the exception of word.

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Answer 4

Power-PC

Level 2

160 points

Oct 8, 2012 3:07 PM in response to mykidsandme

Use Grandperspective to visually map all files:

http://www.macupdate.com/app/mac/19515/grandperspective

Also check this page about clearing drop box cache on your Mac:

https://www.dropbox.com/help/328/en

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Answer 5

mykidsandme Author

Level 1

5 points

Oct 8, 2012 4:41 PM in response to Power-PC

I don't keep a dropbox folder on my mac. I sign in everytime. My mac book bascially is just like it was out of the box. The only thing installed is word. I don't have any pictures, documents, or music either. I have no PDF files. and nothing in downloads. Many times when this window comes up, I do not even have any windows up.

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