Tips and Shortcuts for Windows Users

We’ve all seen the TV ads: “I’m a PC, and Windows 7 was my idea.” Microsoft’s latest iteration arrived on the scene last year with much hoopla and has proven to be a hit. The Windows devotees who grumbled about Vista now happily boast about the nifty features of Windows 7.

According to an October story by Business Insider, “Windows 7 rode the PC run rate to 240 million in sales. If PC sales continue to grow, as they've done almost every year with only a couple interruptions during recessions, then every version of Windows is going to be the fastest-selling version of Windows ever.” Fifty million Frenchmen can’t be wrong, as the song says. In this case, 240 million sales -- and the climbing numbers -- can’t be wrong either. According to many users, Microsoft has hit the nail on the head.

Windows and the art of PC maintenance
You’re probably a Windows 7 convert already -- or you will be in the near future. As Windows users may know, there are several easy-to-use tools that can simplify user experience behind the computer screen and allow you to not only save time, but also engage in fun activities such as writing blogs and burning DVDs.

In addition to learning about the various Windows features and shortcuts, it’s important to keep your PC running smoothly by running Windows automatic updates to patch security and application issues.

Some useful Windows tips are offered below. Microsoft offers a whole host of Windows features on its website, windows.microsoft.com:

System Restore: If you suffer frequent computer crashes, a quick and easy Windows solution is System Restore. This basically lets you ‘revert’ your computer to the way it was prior to the crash or system failure.
In Windows 7, for example:

1. Click Start
2. Type System Restore in search box
3. Click System Restore in results list
4. You may need to provide confirmation or an administrator password.

Automatic defragging: Both Windows 7 and Vista defrag your computer hard drive automatically. This basically lines up all the files in order so that your computer can access them more efficiently and quickly.

Of course, there are also easy-to-use programs like AOL Computer Checkup and PerfectSpeed, which help speed up your computer and fix system errors. AOL Computer Checkup, for example, repairs broken registries and cleans up clutter to boost overall computer performance. It also ensures that your hard drive is running efficiently.

Keyboard shortcuts: There are several easy shortcuts that are helpful for Windows users. According to our technology expert “Sam,” who wishes to remain anonymous because of his job, “When I started using Windows 3.0 in early 1990 or 1991, I found keyboard shortcuts faster to use than the mouse (and I still do).” For example, by pressing Ctrl + Z, you can undo an action and Ctrl + Y allows you to redo it. Ctrl + Mouse scroll wheel lets you change the size of desktop icons, and Ctrl + + enlarges font size on the screen.

Windows logo shortcuts: Microsoft.com also offers time-saving tips using the Windows logo. You can minimize windows by pressing the logo key + M, for example, and clicking the logo key + F lets you search for folders. Clicking the Windows logo + L also locks your computer.

Character map: If you want to use one of those nifty characters -- such as the copyright or trademark symbols -- just go to Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then Character map. Select the character you wish to use and paste it into your document.

Easy ‘Writer’: Join the blogosphere by writing out your prose courtesy of the Windows Live Writer tool, which lets you see what your blog will look like before it’s published -- replete with photos and videos that you can add.

Problem Steps Recorder: MaximumPC.com describes this tool as a means by which you can track every step you make on your computer: “Hit the Record button and Problem Steps Recorder starts tracking your mouse and keyboard input while taking screenshots that correspond with each new action,” it explains.

DVD burning: One feature tech expert Sam praises is the ability to burn DVDs in Windows Media Center, which you can easily do as long as you install a DVD burner to your PC.

Internet Explorer: There are also a number of easy shortcuts to keep in mind for Internet Explorer: You can open a new window by clicking Ctrl + N, then close it by pressing the Ctrl + W keys. In addition, you can enlarge or minimize the window by using the F11 key.