Snapshots are there because Time Machine isn’t always connected to the main backup disk. Since the app uses external drives or flash memory cards to store files, they’re not normally plugged in 24/7. When disconnected, Time Machine will make a list of pending backups by taking snapshots of particular files. While this system is highly efficient, it’s also the main culprit for overrunning the storage space. Luckily, you can delete the snapshots from your computer by using a Terminal command. Here’s how: 1. Launch Terminal with the ‘’CMND + space’’ keyboard shortcut. 2. Enter the following command: tmutil listlocalsnapshots /. Make sure to hit space before the slash. 3. You’ll see a list of snapshots. Copy the info and clear the box. 4. Enter the ‘’sudo tmutil deletelocalsnapshots’’ command and add a particular date at the end. You do have to repeat these steps for each snapshot, so it can get a little tedious. However, you can avoid snapshots altogether with a simple Terminal command: 1. Press ‘’command + space’’ to launch the Spotlight menu. 2. Enter: sudo tmutil disable local into the box. 3. Type your system administrator credentials in the pop-up box. If you find all these commands too demanding, don’t worry. There are plenty of third-party apps for clearing out snapshots.