How to Erase Content and Settings in macOS Monterey and Later
If your Mac has macOS Monterey (12.0) or newer, you have an easy way to get it ready to sell or trade-in:
How to Wipe a MacBook Pro in macOS Big Sur or Earlier
The process of wiping a MacBook Pro running macOS Big Sur or earlier is more complicated than the simple method available in macOS Monterey:
How to Make a Backup of Your MacBook Pro
If you want to save the files (documents, photos, music) you created while using your MacBook Pro, make a backup of your hard disk before you wipe it. Here’s what you do to create a backup using Time Machine, although there are also third-party backup applications you can use:
How to Sign Out of Services
If you’re selling your MacBook Pro, one other thing you should do before wiping its hard disk is sign out of iTunes, iCloud, and iMessage:
How to Reinstall macOS
Whether you’re selling your MacBook Pro or using it again yourself, reinstall macOS after the disk has been erased: When the installation is complete, you’ll see the setup/Welcome screen. If you’re selling the MacBook Pro, press Command+Q, to shut down the Mac on the setup screen, thereby leaving the computer in a factory state, ready for its next owner. However, if you’re holding on to the MacBook Pro, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
