

Once you're screen is back, it's worth running Disk Utility to repair any errors (Image credit: Apple / Future) If you definitely have power, but your MacBook isn't starting up, make sure it's disconnected from anything other than your charging cable and adapter. Peripheral devices like printers, keyboards, external drives, mice and trackpads can all cause potential start up problems. Hit F2 or use the control bar to try increasing the brightness on your MacBook Pro. It’s also possible that you (or your cat) might have unintentionally hit the brightness keys on the keyboard at some point at that you screen is simply dimmed. Check the power indicator light shows so you can rule out a faulty power cable. If you're running on battery, connect your laptop to its charger just in case the battery has run down. It can be a massive relief to discover the issue is something as simple as this. This might seem obvious and you've probably already done it, but just to be sure, do check the power and brightness controls. These are the steps we've been through to try to solve the problem, whether it involves the laptop's own screen or an external display. Many of our writers and creative contributors use MacBooks for their daily work, so a black screen on MacBook Pro is an issue we've come across more than a few times. Before you start fretting about repair bills at your nearest Apple Authorised Service Provider or store, try working through the steps below. However, If you've waited and are still seeing a MacBook Pro black screen (or MacBook Air black screen) after a few minutes, it's time to try to solve the issue. This can be unnerving, but if you sit it out, the laptop might start up normally. You'll normally see a black screen on MacBook Pro (or a grey or blue screen) at least once during startup, and sometimes the startup process can take longer than others, especially if it's been a while since you've used your device. MacBook Pro black screens can occur in several forms, and the good news is that it's often not a major cause for concern.
