The Beacon of Discovery

Each week there will be a new “Tech It Easy” issue. The topics will be varied, and if you would like a topic covered, please just let me know. I’m happy to incorporate most any and all topics. There are 2 questions I kind of ignore though. First. Why is the sky blue? and Second? Mommy where do babies come from? You can understand why.

Tell your friends and coworkers if you find these tips and discussions are helpful to you. My goal for us to share our Sunday Study Hall and our newsletter to any who you think it will help.

1. Keyboard Shortcuts – Learn to use keyboard shortcuts. You’ll save time by not needing to move your hand back and forth between the keyboard and mouse. Here is a list of the ones I use the most.
   • Ctrl + A: Select all items in a window.
   • Ctrl + C or Ctrl + Insert: Copy selected or highlighted item (text, images and so on).
   • Ctrl + V or Shift + Insert: Paste selected or highlighted item.
   • Ctrl + X: Cut selected or highlighted item.
   • Ctrl + Z: Undo previous action.
   • Ctrl + Y: Redo action.
   • Ctrl + N: When File Explorer is your current window, open a new File Explorer window with the same folder path as the current window.
   • Windows key + F1: Open “how to get help in windows” Bing search in default browser.
   • Alt + F4: Close the current app or window.
   • Alt + Tab: Switch between open apps or windows.
   • Shift + Delete: Delete selected item permanently (skip the Recycle Bin).
2. Keep up with AI – More and more we’ll be able to use Artificial Intelligence in a variety of ways with our businesses. Personally, I know that my classified ads are better written and more productive since I’ve started using ChatGPT and others to write the ads. No more spending hours on 50 words and a headline.
3. Password Manager – I cannot stress this hard enough. For every website you sign up for, use a different password. Years ago, when I didn’t know better, my computer was hacked. Back then I didn’t even know what that meant. I quickly found out when hundreds of dollars had been removed from a savings account. Stupid me, used the very same password for every site. It’s taken quite a long time, but with the use of my favorite password manager Roboform, I’ve been able to reset passwords for a ton of places and at the same time delete those I didn’t use anymore. Still a ton of passwords. With Roboform, the app creates strong passwords and saves the logins for me. Make sure you use your Instructor’s link when signing up. They’ll love you for it.
   • A side note. Make sure to install your password manager on all of your devices. From your cell phone to your tablet to your laptop. Most password managers come with multiple device usage. Roboform does cost, but for me it was well worth the money.
4. Be Selective in the Apps – This one is really hard for me even now. I love a good crossword puzzle and a Hidden Pictures game. Take care you don’t overwhelm your computer. Too many apps and other files can actually cause your computer to slow down and even crash.
5. READ THE MANUAL – Take the time to read the manual for every piece of tech you have. Review and learn how to use the applications and their features. It will save you a ton of time. If you don’t understand the words, do a Google search. Make sure to manage your time. When I started I ended up in a huge time waster.
6. Get familiar with your computer parts – You needed to know so much about driving a car. A car and a computer can cost the same amount of money…at least in my house it can. There is a free url on the students-resource page. It covers Computer Basics as well as Internet Basics. If you don’t know what a motherboard is, you need to learn since it’s the brains of your computer.
7. Shut your system down regularly. This allows your computer to completely reset and depending on the settings, can empty the trash bin and clear your cache. Make sure to shut down the proper way for your system and don’t just hit the power button. That is no fun when you get what nerds call “the Blue Screen of Death” or BSOD for short. Look that one up on Google. Just thinking about it gives me the willies.
8. Organize your desktop – Think carefully as you decide how to organize your desktop. Update as needed for the purpose of your computer. The items you need to use on a daily basis can be set up on your desktop (the monitor screen) for easy access.
9. UPDATE, UPDATE, UPDATE – Keep your system running smoothly but keep not only your operating system updated but also your apps. That ensure smooth running for your business.
10. Browser extensions – These are used to enhance your use of the computer. I have few installed and use them daily. They include Zoom, Roboform, Metamask, Share This and the latest Savings Scout. I wouldn’t install a ton of them. Again, start the Pay It Forward habit but using your Instructor’s join link. Just basic items you need to use often.