How many times have you wondered how to do a particular task on your computer but didn’t know how?
How about things like creating a new folder or copy and paste some text into notepad? These are simple but often a lost skill with more than half of the computer users on and offline.
If you are missing these and other computer training then these few tips may be of some help.
Computer Tip #1.
When a new Windows error message appears on your screen it seems that some people will simply ignore it and click “OK“.
This is an example of what NOT TO DO! Instead, you should realize that the programmers did not spend the time creating that message for the fun of it.
Instead at a minimum, you should READ EVERY WORD! Then read it again slowly the second time so it sinks in.
Once you read it you may recognize the program that is causing it and be able to solve the problem yourself.
Don’t be afraid to research the error on any good search engine online. You may find free advice quickly although in most cases you may have to dig a bit to find it.
As a last resort try making a call to a local computer tech that may just let you know how to solve it for free if it is not a serious issue.
However, if it is serious or mildly serious by all means ask for a qualified tech to come out and fix it.
Computer Tip #2.
Have you ever downloaded a piece of software from the internet and couldn’t find it later? It happens to thousands of people all over the world every day!
An easy way to find it later is to first prepare a landing zone or a place where you know you can always find it.
Some people use the My Documents of Windows but after downloading many files you may find it hard to find the latest file.
One simple fix is to create a new folder on your desktop. The definition of your desktop is where you see icons of folder; files and you’re able to see your favorite picture as the wallpaper for your desktop.
To create the new folder is easy. First, find an un-crowded portion of your desktop.
Then using your ring finger click the right mouse button to bring up the context menu for the desktop. There on the menu you will find a selection called “New” Then Click on “Folder“.
This will create a new folder on your desktop. You can name it something that will help you find the downloaded files.
The first time you create a new folder, you will notice that the folder naming text is highlighted.
To rename the folder to something more to your liking simply start typing and the highlighted text will be replaced with what you wish to type in.
A good folder name would be downloads or my new files or even the month and year which will make it much easier to find those files in the future.
Now once the folder is created simply remember when you download the next file to save it in that folder on your desktop for easy and fast access.
Computer Tip #3.
Copy and paste is one task that every computer user will find they are using many times per session for many useful tasks.
Say you wish to copy a portion of text into a file in which you are creating a report or project, even an article or your website content?
This too is a simple skill to learn with a little practice you will be an ace at it and wonder how you ever got along without it.
To copy something you must first highlight it using your left mouse button with your index finger.
You will want to start at the beginning point of the text you wish to copy and place your mouse cursor then by clicking your left mouse button.
Now when you do this DO NOT let go of the mouse button which you are holding with your index finger.
Also, while holding that mouse button down simply move your mouse over the text until you reach your stop point then let go of your index finger.
Now simply move your mouse into the center of the highlighted text and then using your ring finger to press the right mouse button.
This will bring up a menu with the copy selection. Use your index finger, otherwise called the left mouse button; click on “COPY” from the menu that comes up.
You have now successfully copied the text and are ready to paste it into your project or a new notepad text file.
Place your mouse cursor in the blank notepad or project and then using your ring finger press the right mouse button to bring up the menu.
From the menu select “Paste“. If you successfully completed the copy process your text should appear in the new text file or your current project. If not go back and try again.
With practice, you will find it becomes second nature to you and your speed will increase as you use it more and more.
Computer Tip #4.
Remember that you can look up the most common Windows commands if you press the F1 key on your keyboard.
This will bring up the help file for Windows allowing you to quickly search or browse for the answer or information you are seeking for almost everything you might want to do in windows as well as Windows programs.
Keep in mind that most of the applications created for your Windows operating system have the same basic commands available from the menu system.
Some variants may exist depending on the purpose of the software application but the basics are usually there.
If all else fails the next steps would be to either call a computer friend or a genuine computer repair tech.
In most cases, the cost of hiring a professional is affordable even time-saving if you decide you are not comfortable and do not wish to do it yourself.
Another possibility is a community college or even a high school student may be able to help you. You can also check your local ROP services in your area for free classes.
Mastering these tips will help you become more comfortable when using or working on your or most computers running the Windows operating system.
Good luck and stay tuned for more computer tips coming your way soon!
