How Can I Learn More?

My start in computing came in the form of a homebuilt 386 computer that was a hand-me-down from my father-in-law. It should have been an omen that when we opened the box after it was delivered, and hooked it up, it didn't start. So right off the bat, I had to do some troubleshooting. I called him, and he told me to open it and check some things inside. It was a cable that had come loose in shipping.

I'll never forget what he repeatedly told me whenever I called him with a question: "Once you figure it out for yourself, you'll never forget it." He was so right. That may sound a little bit harsh, but there are so many resources out there to research a problem, learn what's happening with new products, or even just learn what the software you already have can do.

SEARCH ONLINE

The EASIEST way to find information on just about anything is to search for it. I, and probably most other experienced computer users, use Google. Google is so popular, the term has even become a verb, as in "I'm going to Google it."

To be honest, whenever I receive a question, and I'm not sure of the answer, the first place that I go is Google. To use it, just type words that describe what you want, and click Google Search. If the words you type in first don't give the results you think they should, just try again.

 

NOTE: Visit the Googleguide Quick Reference page for tips on more efficient and effective searching. Or you can get the PDF here. Also get the Google Cheat Sheet here.

 

You will receive a page with many links on it. You can click any of these to visit a page. If the page that you get doesn't answer your question, click Back in your browser until you get back to the Google results page, and try another link.

Google has even spawned such pastimes as "Googling yourself" (search for your name and see what comes up) and "Googlewhacking" (typing in two unrelated words, with the goal of receiving just ONE returned link)

Some people just have too much time on their hands.

There are many other online search engines, like Yahoo and Bing. Which you use is largely a matter of personal preference, but Google currently holds the title as the King of Search.

I also extensively use Microsoft's Support section for any questions concerning Microsoft issues, which if you are using a Windows machine, can be just about everything that you have running.

 

 

 

USE THE HELP MENU

If you are working in any program, and you run into a situation where you want to do something, and don't know how, don't panic. Just look for "Help" on the menu bar, click it, and look for your something that might answer your question.

 

If the Help menu doesn't have what you are looking for, look for a link for a web site, like shown in the example above, where it says "Microsoft Office Online" . If you can't find any help on the manufacturer's site, either they have really sad tech support, or you can Google it (see above).

 

LEARNING ABOUT COMPUTING IN GENERAL

Magazines are my biggest resource for learning about computer use, and what's new. I recommend three in particular:

PC World is probably the easiest to understand for a newer user. The magazine and web site contain columns, how-to's, downloads, and especially reviews of tech products.

Maximum PC is geared more toward the power user. Lots of good info about new hardware, gaming, good reviews, and if you're so inclined: case modding.

A new favorite way to find out what's going on in the industry is to listen to PODCASTS. Podcasts are audio or video feeds that you can listen to on your computer, or download to an MP3 player, like an Ipod.

My favorite podcasts all seem to feature Leo Laporte. He is involved in several shows that I am somewhat addicted to:

• The Tech Guy on Premiere Radio Networks and XM - This show is available from here live on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am - 2 pm (PT), past shows can be downloaded in MP3 format, or you can subscribe to the podcast.
• This Week in Tech is a roundtable discussion with Leo and other tech luminaries like John C. Dvorak, Roger Chang, Kevin Rose, and Patrick Norton.
• Net@Nite with Amber MacArthur is a short discussion with Leo Laporte, usually with an interview, about a new and useful web product or service.