Tech stuff for people who don't want to read tech stuff
Below is an overview of what each new version of a Mac computer’s OS brings, starting with the version released in 2009, called Mac OS X 10.6 (code name: Snow Leopard). But you’re not interested in what features every version has brought in the past. You want to know what features your new version will […]
A bit about the bit This definitely qualifies as a “computer science” term that you don’t need to know. (There won’t be a quiz.) This page is entirely optional. Still, it’s a simple thing, so why not take it in? Just a little bit A bit is the smallest unit of information possible in computing. It’s something that […]
Congratulations! You’ve decided to finally get a little more self-sufficient with your computer, and have more fun with it. Before you do anything else, there’s one thing you can do that’ll make your progress way more speedy and pleasant. It’s amazingly simple, too: Pick a reliable place to write stuff down. What we’ll do on this page I’ll briefly explain […]
Are you all caught up on what an operating system (or OS) is? If not, read What’s an “operating system” (or “OS”)? Do you know what OS runs your computer? Do you even care? Well, if you ever seek help with your computer or otherwise discuss it with people, it’s a question you will be asked. “Do I need […]
OS (that’s “Oh Es”) is just an abbreviation for “operating system”. And that, in turn, simply means the basic software that runs the computer. Let’s take a short look at what an OS is and isn’t, with big-text questions followed by responses. (This “dictionary” page may be a little wordier than some, but it covers what’s arguably the most […]
In my experience, if you’re a struggling computer learner and want to take a big step forward, the most important thing you can take to heart is this: You don’t learn “the computer”, or use “the computer”. You learn and use applications. (If you haven’t already, please read my mini-essay on this very important topic!) The […]
What’s the best way – no, the only way – to know what you can do with your computer? Know what you can do with your applications! Remember, there’s really no such thing as “using the computer”. It’s all about using applications. But you don’t need to set aside a month and learn how to […]
These are really simple explanations of terms you’ll run across as you learn about or use your computer. I try to explain what the terms mean – and what they don’t mean, when there’s some common misconception about a term. Scroll down the page to find a word, or click on a letter to jump […]
“You really should update your OS!” Do you have a computer helper in your life, always pestering you with this refrain? What does “update your OS” even mean? And why should you do it? “What’s an OS again?” Your computer (or tablet, smartphone, or other device) comes equipped with software called an “operating system” or “OS” (that(s […]
Got a problem? The Internet means you never need to struggle alone. For every topic you can imagine, there are online communities – forums, groups, chat boards, message boards, whatever you want to call them – full of people who can (maybe) answer your questions. This is truly an amazing resource; don’t let it go to waste! […]
