How can I rename a batch of files without losing track of the originals?

Separate the work into a review stage and a commit stage. First, identify exactly which files belong in the batch. Keep an untouched reference set if your storage setup allows it, and note where it is or record the current names. Don’t include files just because they happen to be in the same folder.

Then describe the change you want without assuming there is one best naming system. For example, you might add text, replace a repeated phrase, or apply a name format. Write down one or two before-and-after examples so you have something concrete to check.

Yes. Finder supports batch renaming: select the items, open the shortcut menu, choose Rename, and select an operation such as replacing text, adding text, or applying a name format. Review the selected items and chosen operation before committing. [S1]

For a cautious first pass, use a small working set rather than the whole batch. For example, if you want to add a label, test that change on a few representative copies and check each resulting name. Choose wording and structure that suit your files.

Choose a few files that represent differences in the batch—for instance, names with and without the text you plan to replace, or files with different extensions. The aim is to catch likely surprises, not to hit a particular number. Keep the test separate from your untouched reference set so you can compare old and new names.

Check that every selected file is intended, the results match your written examples, and details you meant to keep are still there. Pay particular attention to filename extensions: Apple warns that changing an extension can prevent a file from opening in the app that created it. [S1] The cited Finder guidance does not describe a test or rollback workflow, so keep your own reference and don’t assume the rename will be easy to undo.

Use this plan and fill in the brackets:

1. Scope: Files I intend to rename: [folder, selection, or description].
2. Reference: Untouched names or files to compare against: [where they are].
3. Expected change: [what changes and what must stay].
4. Example: Before: [sample current name] → Expected: [sample new name].
5. Test: Apply the operation to a few representative working copies; inspect every resulting name and extension.
6. Decision: If the results match the expectation, proceed with the intended batch. If not, stop, adjust the plan, and test again.
7. Afterward: Compare the renamed set with the reference names and check that the files you need still open as expected.

This is a review plan, not a guarantee that every file manager or storage setup behaves the same way. Finder’s documented options and extension warning apply to Mac. [S1] For another device, check its file manager’s documentation and use a small, reviewable test before changing the full set.