Optimize your workflow with these apps

TEAM PICK

Hocus Focus

> Free > https://hocusfoc.us

> Needs OS X 10.10 or later Acluttered desktop is bad for your focus and productivity. Hocus Focus can automatically hide inactive app windows instantly or after aset time. You can even set up profiles for different hiding behavior to suit whatever you’re working on.

Alfred

> Free > www.alfredapp.com> Needs macOS 10.14 or later > $42 > www.noodlesoft.com

This universal search app could change the way you use your Mac, offering a wide range of power features to boost your productivity.

Core search functionality is similar to Spotlight, bringing up results instantly as you type a search term. The results seem a little more focused, though, and each one has its own keyboard shortcut for quicker access.

Files aren’t shown by default: instead, you use a prefix such as “find” or “open”; you can also preview a file by pressing Shift. For web search, you can create keywords for custom searches on specific sites. While the core search and macOS system control features are free, a Powerpack (£34, about $44) is needed to unlock the others. This is where Alfred really comes into its own, however, with advanced features such as a searchable clipboard history and text snippets. Automated workflows are ideal for handling repetitive tasks — use existing ones or create your own with the simple block–based editor.