Everybody loves a cool tech trick. Whether it’s a shortcut on a program or a helpful quirk on a gadget, there’s always something new to learn. In this article, we’ll explore ten useful tech tips, tricks, and shortcuts that will make your life easier. So let’s dive in!
1. Put your USB drive in the right way the first time
Plugging in a USB cable correctly seems like a simple task, yet it often goes wrong. The secret is to look for the USB symbol on one side of the cable. The symbol indicates the correct orientation: up if you’re plugging it horizontally and facing you if you’re plugging it vertically. It’s a small trick that can save you a lot of frustration.
2. Reopen a closed browser tab
Closing the wrong browser tab is a common mistake. Instead of searching through your browser history, use a simple shortcut to reopen the tab. On a PC, press Ctrl+Shift+T, and on a Mac, press Command+Shift+T. These keystrokes will bring back the tab you accidentally closed, saving you time and hassle.
3. Share a YouTube video at a precise point
If you want to share a specific moment in a YouTube video, you don’t need to send the entire video. Click the Share button below the video and find the checkbox that displays the current time. You can stick with that time or choose a different one. Copy the link and share it with others. When they click on it, the video will automatically start at the chosen point.
4. Search using “Site:” to find content like a ninja
When you’re looking for specific information on a website, you can use Google’s Site: feature to narrow down your search. Simply type “site:” followed by the website’s URL and the keywords you’re searching for. For example, “site:virtualtechvision.com tech tips.” This will limit your search results to that particular website, making it easier to find what you need.
5. Report junk texts and stick it to the scammers
Junk texts are annoying, but you can take action against them. Report suspicious texts to the GSMA’s Reporting Service by forwarding the message to 7726. Alternatively, most messaging apps have a “Report junk” option. By reporting these texts, you not only protect yourself but also help to combat scammers.
6. Use your voice in Google Docs
Did you know you can use your voice to dictate text in Google Docs? Open a new document, go to the Tools menu, and enable Voice Typing. Start speaking, and Google Docs will transcribe your words. You can even use commands like “comma,” “period,” and “new paragraph” to format your text. It’s a convenient feature that can save you time and effort.
7. Download movies on Disney Plus
If you’re a Disney Plus subscriber, you can download movies and shows to watch offline. Simply locate the download icon at the bottom of the menu and click on it. With the Disney Plus app, you can download as many titles as your device’s storage allows. This is perfect for long trips or when you don’t have a reliable internet connection.
8. Crop a screenshot
When taking a screenshot, you often capture more than you need. Instead of sharing the entire screen, you can crop the image to include only what’s necessary. On a Mac, press Command + Shift + 5 to reveal a cropping tool. On Windows 10, use the Snipping Tool, located in the Start menu, to capture a specific area of your screen. It’s a simple way to focus on the essential information.
9. Search WhatsApp chats
Finding specific messages in your WhatsApp conversations can be challenging, especially as the chat history grows. However, WhatsApp allows you to search for keywords within your chats. On iOS, look for the search bar at the top of the app. On Android, find the search icon in the top right corner. Using these search features will help you quickly locate important information.
10. Unsend an email
Have you ever sent an email to the wrong recipient or noticed an error right after hitting “send”? Gmail has a handy feature that allows you to unsend emails. Before writing your email, adjust the settings to enable the undo option. You have a few seconds to change your mind and recall the message. It’s a useful feature for avoiding embarrassing mistakes.
Bonus Tip: How to electronically sign a PDF
PDFs have become a popular way to handle documents, but did you know you can sign them electronically? Most PDF-reading applications offer a feature to add electronic signatures. Whether you’re signing a contract, form, or agreement, you can now do it digitally. It’s a convenient and eco-friendly way to handle paperwork.
That concludes our list of ten tech tips that you’ll wish you knew sooner. Give these tricks a try and see how they can improve your tech experience. Remember, there’s always something new to learn in the world of technology.
FAQs
Q: Can I use these tech tips on any device?
A: Yes, most of these tech tips are applicable to various devices, including PCs, Macs, and smartphones. However, some features may be specific to certain platforms or software.
Q: Are these tech tips suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely! These tech tips are designed to be user-friendly and accessible for all levels of experience.
Q: Are these tech tips only applicable to specific programs or software?
A: No, these tips cover a range of popular programs and tools, making them applicable to a wide variety of software and devices.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving world of technology, learning new tricks and shortcuts can greatly enhance your experience. We hope these ten tech tips have provided you with valuable insights and made your tech life easier. Remember, there’s always more to discover and explore. Stay curious and keep exploring the wonders of technology!