Hello everyone:
Welcome to my 10 tip series where each month I’ll be sharing 10 tips on various pieces of technology.
This would include tips on popular screen readers, office software, and browsers.
If you have any suggestions on what you would like me to share then by all means! Write to me at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.
For this month:
10 tips for learning the MAC
Learning how to use a Mac efficiently can be an enjoyable experience. Here are 10 tips to help you get started:
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Basics:
• Start by learning the essential features: how to use the Dock, the Menu Bar, and Finder (the Mac’s file manager). Explore key apps like Safari, Mail, and Photos.
2. Master Keyboard Shortcuts:
• MacOS has many useful keyboard shortcuts to speed up tasks. Some of the most essential include:
• Command + C (Copy)
• Command + V (Paste)
• Command + W (Close window)
• Command + Space (Spotlight Search)
3. Use Spotlight Search for Quick Access:
• Spotlight (Command + Space) is a powerful search tool to quickly find apps, files, and even get quick answers like math calculations or currency conversions.
4. Understand System Preferences (Settings):
• Visit “System Preferences” (the gear icon in your Dock or via Spotlight) to customize your Mac. Adjust things like trackpad gestures, display settings, and privacy controls.
5. Explore Finder and File Management:
• Finder helps you manage files on your Mac. Learn how to organize your files into folders, use Tags for better sorting, and leverage Quick Look (press Spacebar on a file) to preview documents without opening them.
6. Get Familiar with Trackpad Gestures:
• If you’re using a MacBook, the trackpad supports various gestures for navigation:
• Swipe with three fingers to switch between full-screen apps.
• Pinch to zoom.
• Use two-finger swipe to scroll through pages.
• Set custom gestures in System Preferences > Trackpad.
7. Use Mission Control and Spaces:
• Mission Control (F3 or swipe up with three fingers) allows you to see all open windows. You can also create virtual desktops, known as Spaces, to keep your apps organized and clutter-free.
8. Learn How to Use Time Machine for Backups:
• Time Machine is Mac’s built-in backup feature. Set it up with an external drive to automatically back up your files, so you can restore them later if needed.
9. Customize the Dock:
• Drag and drop apps you use frequently into the Dock for easy access. You can also resize and reposition the Dock (System Preferences > Dock & Menu Bar) and set it to auto-hide.
10. Explore MacOS Help and Online Tutorials:
• Use the built-in Help feature (click the Help menu in Finder or apps) to search for specific instructions. There are also numerous online resources and communities (like Apple’s website, YouTube, and forums) to learn advanced features.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the Mac!
To contact me please send an email to donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca
I’m Donna J. Jodhan (sight loss coach and accessibility advisor)
