Mac Stuck On Loading Screen

Usually, Mac users know that they can rely on their devices to run smoothly and reliably. Even Macs, however, can run into unexpected troubles that could cause the systems to get stuck on the loading screen. Users often encounter such issues after a major macOS update that implements numerous changes and modifications. Fortunately, there are a couple of solutions that could help in fixing this issue.

Restart the SMC

The SMC or System Management Controller is a chip on the logic board of the Mac that is responsible for managing all power functions of the computer. Resetting the SMC is a good starting point when the system becomes stuck on the loading screen.

1. Shut down the Mac.
2. Press and hold Shift+Control+Option on your keyboard.
3. While holding the keys, press and hold the Power button of the system for at least 10 seconds.
4. Release all the keys and start the system normally.

Reset the NVRAM

If the Mac is still stuck, then let's see if resetting the NVRAM won't be able to help. The NVRAM (Non-volatile random-access memory) contains information about the state of the computer allowing for faster boot times to be achieved.

1. Shut down the Mac.
2. Press Command+Option+P+R on your keyboard and hold them for at least 20 seconds. 
3. The Mac should restart automatically.
4. See if the system manages to boot past the initial loading screen. 

Try starting the Mac in Recovery Mode

1. Shut down the Mac.
2. Press the Power button followed immediately by Command+R on your keyboard.
3. You should see the macOS Utilities window appear on the screen.
4. Select Disk Utility.
5. Let the tool look for and repair any broken disk permissions.
6. See if the Mac now boots normally.