If you’ve been using Windows or another operating system, moving to the Macintosh will require some adjustments. Below are some Mac tips new users may find very handy.
Removing a Disc from the Drive
If the CD/DVD icon vanishes from the desktop, it means that you inserted a blank CD. The icon could also disappear if you try taking out the disc while it’s being read. There are two ways to go around this problem. The first is to reboot the system. As it does, press the mouse.
The other method is to go to the Disk Utilities section (it’s in the Applications – Utilities). When you see your disc drive, click Eject. Either method should release the disc.
Closing Applications
One of the most indispensable Mac tips involves shutting down applications. Like Windows, it has an X button. However, clicking it will only move the app in the background. Press Command + Q to shut it down completely. If for some reason it doesn’t work, open the Activity Monitor.
Installing Software
First you need to get the Apple Disk Image (dmg) for the software. Extract this file. It will create a virtual drive. Go to this drive and place the software’s files into the folder. When it’s installed, drag the dmg file in the trash.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Go to the System Preferences. In the Keyboard and Mouse section, you’ll see a list of all the shortcuts. Here you can also make your shortcuts.
Mac Tips for Managing the Icons
Use control + the mouse button to put the icons back in order. When you press the combination, a menu will pop up. Choose Clean from the options. This will align all the icons on a grid. This is the easiest way to arrange them if they are messed up.
The context menu allows you to change the icon size as well. Just choose Show View Options. There you’ll see the settings for the icon size. If you have a Macbook Pro, you can use the mousepad’s pinch / expand feature instead.
Looking for Files
The tool to use is the Spotlight. It can be found on the right of the taskbar.
To See all Open Programs
Here’s a Mac tip for viewing all open apps. Press F3, and a list of all running programs show up. It also shows all open folders. Now you can select which to use with ease.
Startup Options
The Macintosh makes it easier to choose which operating system to use. Head to System Preferences. Go to Startup Disk and click System. You’ll see a list of all operating systems available. Unlike the Windows BIOS, the graphical user interface makes selection easy.
Setting up a Proxy
All the network options are in the System Preferences. Head over to the Network and Internet options. Choose the device. Select Advanced and choose Proxies. Make the needed changes.
Moving from one operating system to another can be difficult. But these Mac tips will make the transition easier. It can make the learning curve much smoother.
