Ok, so we all use tech – and while some of us may be experts, there’s always more we can learn. As you’re writing essays, doing coursework, or simply just browsing online, these handy hints will help you along the way. (And you can impress your friends!)
1. Use handy shortcuts
Give your mouse a rest. For example, Ctrl+K inserts a hyperlink, Ctrl+2 double-spaces your lines. Wow!
2. Start a timer
Need a stopwatch? Go to Google, type ‘timer’ – and hey presto, there’s your stopwatch.
3. Jump to your Google address bar
Want to go straight to that bit at the top of your web browser where you type in the web address? Simple. Just Ctrl+L.
4. Search YouTube without going to YouTube
Searching YouTube can be quicker: if you’re using Google Chrome just type YouTube.com into your address bar, then hit tab. Taa-daa!
5. Emoji keyboard
If you love emojis, you can add them using your desktop just as easily as using your smartphone. On Windows press the Windows Key + . (period) and an emoji panel will appear. Enjoy! 😉
6. Copy web links super-quick
Right-click the link like usual – then tap E on your keyboard to copy the link. Whoosh!
7. Never hit the full stop key again
Save your fingers! Who knew you never have tap the full stop key on a smartphone? Just hit the space bar twice for a full stop, and the next letter will be automatically capitalised too.
8. Stuck for words?
If you regularly write but you’re looking for a different word with the same meaning – just highlight the word you’re stuck on, right/left click on your mouse, scroll down the menu and select synonyms – Result!
9. Roll up, roll up!
This is a bit of fun – but mind-blowing fun! Go to Google, type: ‘do a barrel roll’ – and that’s exactly what it does!
10. Finally, take a screen break
And that doesn’t mean spending ten minutes on Insta! Observing guidelines during the Covid-19 lockdown means you can still take one form of exercise a day, for example a run, walk, or cycle – alone or with members of your household. Or, read something different, or draw a doodle…