HELP File – What is .help file and how to open it?
HELP File Extension
Mac OS X Help Book – file format by Apple
HELP is a file extension used by Apple’s Mac OS X Help Book, which contains help documentation and tutorials for various applications and features within the operating system. These files are typically stored in the /Library/Documentation/Help/ folder and can be opened using the Help Viewer application.
Definition and Usage
A HELP file is a documentation file associated with Mac OS X Help Books, a digital help system developed by Apple. Help Books are interactive online manuals that provide extensive information about various macOS features, applications, and system utilities. They offer a comprehensive and structured way to access help and support materials.
Characteristics and Structure
HELP files are primarily text-based files that contain formatted help content organized into topics, sections, and subtopics. They utilize a proprietary markup language called Apple Help Markup Language (AHML) to structure and format the content. AHML allows for the inclusion of rich content, including images, tables, hyperlinks, and tables of contents. HELP files are typically packaged within the Help Book’s application bundle and can be accessed through the Help menu within the application or the Help Viewer application.
Opening HELP Files on Mac OS X
HELP files are primarily associated with Mac OS X Help Viewer, a built-in help system for Apple’s operating systems. To open a HELP file on a Mac computer, follow these steps:
- Locate the HELP file: HELP files usually have a file extension of .help. They can be found in various locations on your Mac, including the Applications folder, Library folders, or System folders.
- Double-click the HELP file: Double-clicking on the HELP file will automatically launch the Help Viewer application. If the Help Viewer is not installed, you may need to download and install it from the Apple App Store.
- Navigate the Help content: Once the Help Viewer is open, you can browse the HELP file’s contents using the navigation pane on the left side of the window. You can expand and collapse sections, search for specific topics, and access additional resources related to the HELP file.
Using HELP Files for Mac OS X Applications
Many Mac OS X applications include their own built-in HELP files, which provide documentation and assistance for using the application. To access the application’s HELP file:
- Open the application: Launch the Mac OS X application that you want to use.
- Click on the “Help” menu: In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on the “Help” menu.
- Select “Help Center”: Choose the “Help Center” option from the Help menu. This will open the application’s built-in Help system, which may include a HELP file.
- Navigate the Help content: Use the navigation bar and search features to find the information you need about the application. You can also access other types of help resources, such as online documentation, troubleshooting guides, or community forums.
Apple Help Books (.HELP)
The .HELP file extension is associated with Apple Help Books, a type of digital documentation used in the Mac OS X operating system. Designed by Apple, these files serve as comprehensive resources for various topics, providing detailed information, tutorials, and troubleshooting tips. Help Books typically cover a wide range of subjects, including operating system features, applications, and third-party software.
Accessing Help Books is straightforward. Users can launch them from the Help menu in most Mac OS X applications or by searching for them in Spotlight. Help Books are conveniently organized into chapters and sections, enabling users to easily navigate and find the specific information they require. The content is presented in a structured and interactive format, featuring text, images, videos, and interactive elements such as quizzes and glossary definitions.