You’re simply missing out if you don’t know these 9 spectacular Mac tips. They will save you time and frustration in a few easy clicks.If you’ve just bought a new Mac computer, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed.
For those making the transition from another provider to Apple, the change can seem like a lot. The interface is different, the controls have changed — you may initially feel like you’ll never get used to this.
Don’t get stuck on your old computer and give up immediately. Macs are built to be user-friendly and sleek so once you’ve taken the time to get to know your machine, a whole new world of online opportunity will be opened up to you.
After all, there’s a reason Apple is one of the top computer vendors in the world.
Whether you chose a laptop or a desktop, take a look at these Mac tips to get the most out of your new computer!
1. Split View
If you want to multi-task on your computer, Split View may be just what you need.
Split View allows you to have two screens in one, side-by-side. That means if you want to background watch Netflix while you work, or are looking to have a reference on the screen while typing a document, there’s no need to mess around with resizing windows.
This is one of the best Mac tips and tricks for people who can’t stick to one activity at a time!
2. Voice Control
Macs have some of the most intuitive voice control.
If you’re looking to save time and fast typing isn’t your strong suit, utilize the voice control on a Mac. This will allow you to speak commands and see them followed through on your screen!
Don’t forget to speak slowly and clearly.
3. Mass-Rename Files
If you’re uploading a bunch of photographs or files from another device or downloading them, Mac computers can mass-rename them.
You can choose a name for a selection of files and your computer will populate this name for them all as well as number them.
Want to keep those photographs from your family vacation organized, or those work files that need to stay in order? This might be your new favorite feature.
4. Reorganize Your Toolbar
The toolbar at the bottom of your screen is completely customizable.
If you want to remove some default programs you’re never going to use, right-click them and choose ‘remove from dock’. If you want to keep a new program there, open it up, right-click, and choose ‘keep in dock’.
You can then drag the icons around to choose their order.
You can also move the toolbar itself. If you would prefer it on the side of your screen or at the top, click on a blank space and drag it there.
5. Use Spotlight
By hitting Command+Space, you will open up Spotlight, one of the Mac tips for beginners that may be life-changing.
Spotlight can do calculations, currency conversions, and so many other things at the drop of a hat. Rather than opening up Google or searching through some Mac apps to find the tool you need, one Keyboard shortcut will take you straight to Spotlight.
You can also use Spotlight to search the entirety of your Mac if there’s a lost file somewhere in there.
6. Use the Dictionary
Hover over a word on your screen and hit command + D for the word to be searched in the dictionary!
If you see something online or in your e-mail and aren’t sure what a word means, or simply need some clarification for context, this is a quick tool that will help you out. It’s extremely handy if you spent a lot of time reading articles on the web.
7. Screenshot Control
Most computers are capable of screenshotting, and you might already know how to screenshot on a Mac.
Shift+Command+3 will take a large screenshot. However, if you choose Shift+Command+4, you can select a smaller portion of the screen. It will only take a snapshot of that part and save it straight to your chosen location.
This is much easier than having to upload your screenshot into photo editing software and crop it down to size. The cropping is pre-done, meaning your screenshot is fully prepared right as you take it.
8. Sign PDFs Online
Back in the days when electronic signatures weren’t around, being e-mailed a contract to sign was a hassle. It meant printing it off, signing it, and scanning it back in — every single page. Not only that, but many people don’t own printers and scanners, so it often involved a trip to the local library.
Not so anymore if you own a Mac! Documents can be signed electronically. You can use your mouse or trackpad to mimic your signature and print it on the PDF.
It’s as binding as a physical signature. Although it might make you nervous to handle sensitive contracts on your new computer, Macs have amazing antivirus software built-in. You can check out this website for more tips.
9. Create Custom Shortcuts
Macs have many custom keyboard shortcuts available to you already, but in the settings of your computer, you can create your own.
You can use keyboard shortcuts to open and close your favorite apps or run commands inside of them. Gone are the days when the only keyboard shortcuts available are to copy and paste — you can make your computing experience much faster now!
Make the Most of Your Computer With These Mac Tips!
Although it may initially have seemed daunting the first time you opened your new computer, these Mac tips should put you at ease and provide you with a seamless experience.
There are countless ways to enhance your experience, but with these tips and tricks, you’re off to a great start!
For more technology tips and guides, check out the rest of our blog!
