Rename Modes
Apply names automatically, or review and approve each suggestion before renaming. Choose the workflow that fits the batch.
NameQuick proposes a name for every file the same way, whether it comes from a naming preset or Smart Rename. Rename modes control what happens next: the name is either applied right away, or held for your review.
Rename automatically#
NameQuick applies each proposed name as soon as it is generated. Nothing waits for confirmation. For files you add yourself and for watched folders, this option is Rename automatically.
Use this when you trust the output and want speed:
- Watch folders that should stay hands-free
- A naming preset you have already validated
- Large batches where reviewing every name is impractical
Review before renaming#
NameQuick proposes names and waits. No file is renamed until you decide. For files you add yourself and for watched folders, this option is Review first.
In Quick Rename, compare all suggestions with the files, then click Apply N names to apply the ready ones together. There is no per-row edit there. If something is wrong, don't apply: wait for processing to finish, click Clear (this empties the list, not your files), fix and test your preset, and add fresh copies.
Held files from watched folders wait in All Files, each marked with a new name, under Ready to apply. Select a file to open its details. There you can:
| Action | Effect |
|---|---|
| Apply | Applies the proposed name. |
| Change the proposed name, then Apply edit | Applies your edited name instead. |
| Keep original | Leaves the file's name as it is. |
| Apply all (in the Ready to apply header) | Applies every waiting name. |
| Select several files, then Apply or Keep originals | Applies or keeps the names of only the files you selected. |
Use this when accuracy matters more than speed:
- First runs with a new naming preset
- Sensitive, legal, or one-off documents
- Mixed batches where some files need a different name
Choosing a mode#
Review first
RecommendedNames are proposed; nothing changes until you apply them. Best for new naming presets, sensitive files, and mixed batches. Option: Review first.
Rename automatically
Names are applied immediately. Best for trusted naming presets, watch folders, and large batches. Option: Rename automatically.
For files you add yourself (drag and drop, Add files, or the Finder shortcut on Mac), set SettingsRenamingApply suggestions from files you add to Review first or Rename automatically. Quick Rename shows the same setting. Choose it before adding files: each file keeps the setting that was active when it was added.
Watch Folders have their own setting. Settings → Renaming → Watched-folder approval sets the default, which is Rename automatically unless you change it. Each folder in Settings → Folders can choose Review first or Rename automatically, and a folder with its own choice can return to the global setting with Follow watched-folder default. The folder's own choice wins.