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How to format a MacBook Pro 2015?

Published in MacBook Formatting 3 mins read

Formatting a MacBook Pro 2015 involves erasing the hard drive and reinstalling the operating system. Here's a breakdown of how to do it:

Back Up Your Data (Crucial!)

Before you begin, back up all important data. Formatting will erase everything on your hard drive. Use Time Machine, iCloud, or an external hard drive for backing up.

Formatting and Reinstalling macOS

Since the provided reference doesn't directly apply to a MacBook Pro 2015 (it refers to System Settings, which is for newer macOS versions), here's the standard method for your model:

  1. Start in Recovery Mode:

    • Turn off your MacBook Pro.
    • Turn it back on and immediately press and hold Command (⌘) + R keys until you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe. This boots the computer into Recovery Mode.

  2. macOS Utilities Window:

    • You should see a "macOS Utilities" window.

  3. Disk Utility:

    • Select "Disk Utility" and click "Continue."

  4. Select Your Hard Drive:

    • In Disk Utility, select your startup disk (usually named "Macintosh HD") from the sidebar.

  5. Erase:

    • Click the "Erase" button.

  6. Erase Settings:

    • Name: Give your drive a name (e.g., "Macintosh HD").
    • Format: Choose "APFS" if it's available (recommended for High Sierra and later). If not, choose "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)."
    • Scheme: Choose "GUID Partition Map."
    • Click "Erase."

  7. Quit Disk Utility:

    • Once the erase process is complete, click "Done" and then quit Disk Utility (Command + Q or from the Disk Utility menu).

  8. Reinstall macOS:

    • Back in the "macOS Utilities" window, select "Reinstall macOS" (or "Reinstall OS X" depending on the macOS version installed).
    • Click "Continue" and follow the on-screen instructions. You'll need an internet connection for this process.

  9. Choose the disk to install the operating system: You'll be prompted to select which disk you want to install macOS on. Choose the disk you just erased.

  10. Follow the prompts: The installer will download and install macOS. This process may take a significant amount of time (30 minutes to several hours), depending on your internet speed.

  11. Setup Assistant: After the installation, your MacBook Pro will restart and the Setup Assistant will guide you through setting up your computer.

Alternative Recovery Mode Options (If Command + R Doesn't Work)

  • Option + Command (⌘) + R: This starts up from macOS Recovery over the internet. It installs the latest macOS that is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
  • Shift + Option + Command (⌘) + R: This starts up from macOS Recovery over the internet. It installs the macOS that originally came with your MacBook Pro, or the closest version still available.

Important Considerations

  • Make sure your MacBook Pro is plugged into a power source during the entire formatting and reinstallation process.
  • The time it takes to format and reinstall macOS depends on your internet speed and the performance of your hard drive.
  • If you plan to sell or give away your MacBook Pro, do not sign in with your Apple ID during the Setup Assistant.

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