Essential Computer Tips and Tricks

Essential Computer Tips and Tricks

We’ve compiled some of the most useful computer tricks to enhance your productivity by saving you valuable time. You can also share these tips with your friends and family to help them become more efficient PC users.

Typing Tricks

Paste Plain Text
When copying text from any source, it usually includes the original formatting. To paste this as plain text, press Ctrl + Shift + V instead of Ctrl + V. On a Mac, use Cmd + Shift + V. Note that this doesn’t work in all programs, especially Microsoft Word or Outlook. For these, try:

1. Ctrl + Alt + V for the ‘Paste Special’ dialog box.
2. Ctrl + Spacebar to remove formatting from already pasted text.
3. Download PureText and assign a hotkey to always paste plain text.

Delete an Entire Word
Instead of deleting a single letter, press Ctrl + Backspace to delete the entire word behind the cursor, making text deletion quicker.

Move Cursor Efficiently
Move the cursor without using your mouse:

• Ctrl + Left Arrow: Move to the beginning of the previous word.
• Ctrl + Right Arrow: Move to the beginning of the next word.
• On macOS, use the Option key for similar functionality.
• To select text as you go, hold Shift + Ctrl + Arrow (up or down to select entire bodies of text).

Web Browsing Tricks

Use Private Browsing
Private browsing prevents cookies and history from being saved, useful for activities like shopping for gifts on a shared computer.

• Chrome: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Firefox and Internet Explorer: Ctrl + Shift + P

Keyboard Shortcuts

Minimize All Windows
Press Windows key + D to minimize all open windows and view your desktop. This is more efficient than minimizing each window individually. Note that Windows + M offers similar functionality but cannot be undone, so Windows + D is preferable. On macOS, use Mission Control to handle virtual desktops, switch between apps, and peek at your desktop.

Close the Current Program
Press Alt + F4 to close the current program. This saves time compared to mousing over to click the “X”. Be cautious, as some might suggest this shortcut as a prank to close your current work.

File Management Tricks

Rename a File Quickly
Instead of right-clicking and selecting rename, press F2 while a file is selected to rename it. To rename another file, press Tab without deselecting the current file. On Macs, press Enter to rename (which is counter-intuitive for Windows users) and use Cmd + O to open files.

By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you’ll find yourself working more efficiently and effectively. Share these tricks with others to help them improve their computer skills as well.