A factory reset restores a Mac to its original, out-of-the-box settings. It’s an ideal solution when you’re experiencing problems with your Mac or when you want to sell it or give it to someone else.

Before you reset your Mac, be sure to back up your important files. Resetting your Mac deletes all your files, settings, and applications.

There are two ways to reset your Mac: from the Recovery HD or from the Mac OS X Utilities menu.

To reset your Mac from the Recovery HD:

1. Turn on your Mac and hold down the Command and R keys until …