Use this simple checklist to erase your MacBook, remove your Apple Account, and prepare it for the next owner.
If your MacBook has this option, use it first:
Use macOS Recovery, erase Macintosh HD in Disk Utility, then reinstall macOS.
Use Time Machine, iCloud Drive, Google Drive, USB, or an external hard drive.
Go to Apple Menu → System Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Erase All Content and Settings.
Use the password you normally use when opening your MacBook.
Enter your Apple Account password if asked. This removes Find My Mac and Activation Lock.
Click Erase All Content & Settings and wait for the MacBook to restart.
When the setup screen appears, do not create a new account. Shut down the MacBook for the buyer.
Copy important files to Time Machine, iCloud, USB, or an external drive.
Sign out from Apple Account, Messages, FaceTime, Music, Apple TV, browsers, and work apps.
Intel MacBook: restart and hold Command + R. Apple silicon MacBook: hold power button until Options appears.
Select Disk Utility from macOS Recovery, then click Continue.
Select Macintosh HD → Erase → Format: APFS. Choose Erase Volume Group if shown.
Quit Disk Utility, then choose Reinstall macOS. Follow the screen instructions.
After macOS installs, do not log in again. Shut it down for the new owner.
Complete this before giving the MacBook to the buyer.
The buyer should only see the first setup screen. If your name, Apple Account, desktop, or old files appear, the reset is not complete.