How to access recent files or folders in Finder or in file dialogs? Most of the time I spend in Finder dialogs is trying to find the file or folder I accessed a few minutes ago.

Examples


I use an image editing program to create a funny picture. Then I go to a website to upload the picture. Now I have to find it all over again in the upload dialog.
I'm making a game. Say first I create a sound effect to use in the game and save it to the project folder. Next I create a sprite in an image editing program. When I save it, I want to save it in the same folder. Now I have to find the folder again.
I download a zip file. After it has downloaded I want to go to the folder to which it was downloaded to extract it.


In other words, this happens all the time.

Is there any way to access recent files or folders in Finder or in file dialogs?
Yes, there is a way, although a commercial one. It will cost you $34.95 and AFAIK there are no competitive solutions.

The Default Folder X program wraps the dialog boxes with it's own frame allowing you to navigate to: a recent file or folder, a folder you configured as favourite, a folder that you used recently with a particular application.

So it fits into all of your three scenarios. Additionally you can open recent and favourite places in Finder by using the icon in the menu bar.