macos-design-guidelines

Codify macOS design guidelines for Menu Bar, Windows, Toolbars, Sidebars, Keyboard, and Pointer interactions.

Updated Feb 24, 2026

Search Tags:#macos #ui-design #hig #window-management #keyboard-shortcuts #native-apps

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npx skills add https://github.com/nigamelastic/Skill_repo --skill macos-design-guidelines-nigamelastic

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: macos-design-guidelines
Source: https://github.com/nigamelastic/Skill_repo/tree/main/skills/macos
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/nigamelastic/Skill_repo --skill macos-design-guidelines-nigamelastic

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Apple’s macOS Human Interface Guidelines are comprehensive but often read as theoretical rules. This Guide translates them into a practical, rules-based reference that helps teams design and review Mac apps with a native look and predictable behavior.

Core Features & Use Cases

Provides a complete set of rules across Menu Bar, Windows, Toolbars, Sidebars, Keyboard, and Pointer interactions.
Includes actionable SwiftUI and AppKit examples, plus practical checklists for design reviews.
Use Case: design or port a macOS app so it feels native, cohesive with system conventions, and accessible to power users.

Quick Start

Design a macOS app using these guidelines to ensure a native look, keyboard accessibility, and consistent window management.

Frequently Asked Questions about macos-design-guidelines

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I design a macOS app to follow native Human Interface Guidelines?▼

Design a native macOS app by applying rules-based references for Menu Bar, Windows, Toolbars, Sidebars, Keyboard, and Pointer interactions. This approach translates theoretical HIG principles into actionable checklists and code examples for predictable behavior.

What macOS UI elements do I need to port my app for a native look?▼

Porting an app for a native macOS look requires configuring window management, toolbars, sidebars, and menu bars. You must implement standardized keyboard shortcuts and pointer interactions to ensure the application feels cohesive with system conventions.

Does this macOS design guide include SwiftUI and AppKit implementation examples?▼

Yes, the macOS design guide includes actionable SwiftUI and AppKit examples. These code snippets help developers implement HIG rules across windows, toolbars, and sidebars while ensuring keyboard accessibility.

How do I conduct a macOS design review for native apps?▼

Conduct a macOS design review using the provided practical checklists. These checklists evaluate window management, toolbar configurations, and pointer interactions to ensure your app meets native Human Interface Guidelines.

When do I need to use macOS design guidelines for porting an application?▼

You need macOS design guidelines when porting an application to ensure it feels native and accessible to power users. Applying these rules guarantees consistent window management and keyboard accessibility across Mac system conventions.

Why does my ported macOS app not feel like a native app?▼

Your ported app may not feel native because it lacks standardized window management, menu bar integration, and keyboard shortcuts. Applying actionable macOS HIG rules ensures cohesive system conventions and predictable pointer interactions.