Thursday, March 22, 2012

Become Smart With Computers

Learn to use a computer like a pro.


If you are new to computers, you may be intimidated by the overwhelming knowledge that many around you seem to have. Don't think of those people as smarter; they just know things that you have yet to learn. There are many ways to become more proficient with your computer. Some are public, some are private, some cost money and some are free. No matter what style of education you prefer, learning use computers will be easier than you think.


Instructions


1. Just jump in. Seriously, get on your computer and start poking around. Computers are designed to be user-friendly, otherwise no one would buy them. So long as you don't go deleting random files and programs, its perfectly safe to click and type and try things out. Most programs have a help option if you get in a jam. If all else fails, you can always simply restart the computer and try again.


2. Take a few classes. Any college or adult education center will offer classes in computers, from the very basics all the way through to advanced programming and building a computer from scratch. These classes let you learn with an instructor nearby to offer advice and help. Often computer classes have their own computers for you to work on, so you can learn before you even make a purchase of your own.


3. Read books on computers. Visit any bookstore and you will find hundreds of books on the subject of learning to use your computer. They offer many different writing styles and levels of proficiency; some are even illustrated with pictures of menus and folders to visually help you along.


4. Visit online tutorials. There are entire websites devoted to teaching you about different functions on your computer. These sites often offer not only illustrations but also sometimes videos, allowing you to watch computer systems being used. Some of these sites are free while others are on a pay basis. Begin with the free ones, then move on to the others if you feel that your knowledge is still lacking.


5. Ask the experts. Visit computer stores or call hotlines with specific questions. Don't feel stupid or assume that you're wasting anyone's time: they are being paid to help you. Some services can even take over your computer (with your permission) and guide you through your problem from across the world.

Tags: your computer, with your