Google introduced 2 new tools last year, Backup and Sync and Drive File Stream, which replaced the original Google Drive Sync desktop app that long-time syncers would be familiar with.
Google Drive Sync basically mapped a "Google Drive" folder on your local filesystem that was (you guessed it) synced to your Google Drive.
That method of syncing went away with the release of Backup and Sync & Drive File Stream.
Bring back the dedicated "Google Drive sync folder" with Insync, a superpowered syncing client on Windows, Linux and macOS.
Here's how:
1. Map/Choose your local sync folder
This happens during the Insync setup process -- Windows, Linux and macOS.
In this case, the folder name will be the account name "alex.syncs @ gmail.com":
2. Sync your files
Choose the cloud files you want to see locally on the Insync interface.
Sync all files, just some or no files at all. The app shows you all your Google Drive files:
3. Use your local Google Drive folder
See and use your synced files in your mapped Google Drive folder.
Add more files in the folder to sync them up to Google Drive.
Screenshot is macOS but it works similarly on Windows and Linux:
