.local-bin/docs/setup_macos_dock/Usage.md

setup_macos_dock

Configures macOS Dock settings and populates it with preferred applications.

Platform

macOS only - Uses defaults and dockutil

Description

This script automates the configuration of the macOS Dock by:

• Setting visual preferences (auto-hide, size, magnification)
• Removing all existing Dock items
• Adding a curated list of frequently used applications
• Restarting the Dock to apply changes

Usage

./setup_macos_dock.sh

Dock Settings Applied

Setting	Value	Description
autohide	true	Dock hides automatically
tilesize	50	Icon size (pixels)
largesize	64	Magnified icon size
magnification	false	Disable icon magnification
orientation	bottom	Dock position
mineffect	""	Minimize effect (none)
NSAutomaticWindowAnimationsEnabled	false	Disable window animations

Default Applications

The script adds these apps to the Dock (in order):

1. Mail.app
2. Messages.app
3. WezTerm.app
4. Obsidian.app
5. Zen.app
6. System Settings.app

Requirements

• macOS
• dockutil: brew install dockutil (script auto-installs if missing)

Warning

This script removes ALL existing Dock items before adding the preferred applications. Your current Dock configuration will be replaced.

Notes

• The Dock automatically restarts after configuration
• System Settings may be called "System Preferences" on older macOS versions
• Edit the script to customize the list of applications