The article argues that the ubiquitous "File" menu label is often inaccurate, as many modern applications do not primarily handle actual files. The author analyzes 35 apps on their Mac to demonstrate this disconnect and suggests more descriptive alternatives for each.

For instance, in 1Password, items are passwords, so the menu should be "Password." Similarly, Calendar handles events, suggesting "Event," while Chrome and Safari are better labeled "Browse." Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Messages fit "Chat" or "Message," whereas Spotify suits "Playlist." Even productivity tools like Automator might prefer "Automation" and Da Vinci Resolve could use "Project."

While some apps like Word technically handle documents, the author prefers "Document." Others, such as Finder, correctly use "File" as the root app where the convention originated. Apps like Terminal use "Shell," and Photoshop 2026 accurately lists file operations. The piece concludes that sticking to tradition without considering actual functionality leads to confusing UI labels.