Every time I take a screenshot or save a file on my desktop I end up with three files, one with [orig] at the end, one with docx. and one with PDF. And I have no idea how to stop it from creating all the dupes. Please help if anyone knows how to stop it from automatically doing this!?
MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 15.4
docx is a Microsoft WORD format.
The Mac does not inherently save multiple formats, and does not save docx files by default AT ALL.
Your issue appears to be a Microsoft Word issue. Perhaps a specific setting.
You should post your query on the Microsoft Word for Mac forms that Microsoft provides.
Yisaravenlikeawritingdesk wrote:
Every time I take a screenshot or save a file on my desktop I end up with three files, one with [orig] at the end, one with docx. and one with PDF.
Making a screenshot, or saving a file, doesn't do any of those things.
And I have no idea how to stop it from creating all the dupes. Please help if anyone knows how to stop it from automatically doing this!?
The most likely explanation is some 3rd party software, or Apple Script/Automator task, that has been setup to watch a folder and convert any file dropped in it into a Word and PDF version. Then that functionality was enabled on the Desktop folder.
Thanks for flagging that for me. I did, however, just now install the software update, and the docx issue seems to have resolved itself. Now, screenshots, etc., are just saving as PDF and ORIG? Is it still a Microsoft issue? I don't see how it can be, given that it's screenshots from the Mac and no Microsoft apps are even open.
any idea how I would find out what the 3rd party is and stop it?
You could try running EtreCheck and look at what LaunchAgents and LaunchDaemons are installed. Also look at the installation section towards the end. Or, you can use the Share Report button to copy the report and paste into the Additional Text area (document icon in reply toolbar).
EtreCheck is free to use for this function. He does sell an upgrade version that is not needed to figure this out.
I don't use it, but I have seen where DropBox will hijack the screenshots. Maybe it has some new functionality. Or, since it is docx, perhaps OneDrive.
For a Folder Action as etresoft described, try searching Spotlight for Folder Action Setup.
That will list any Folder Actions enabled and if you select one, it will show what script it is running.
How are you doing screenshots? If you're not using the macOS screenshot routine, then you can expect trouble.
You should see this:
Take a screenshot on Mac - Apple Support
i use shift, command, 3 to take screenshots
any idea how I would find out what the 3rd party is and stop it?
OK. Look at System Settings and search for Login Items. See if anything is automatically turning itself on that you don't want. Opinions may vary, but the ideal number of login items is 0.
Ok thank you! I’ll see if that works
how do i stop my macbook pro from saving files in multiple formats every time?
