How to Adapt to Mac After Using a PC for Years

For people who have always used a PC, adapting to a Mac can be somewhat challenging. Yet the basics are easy to learn. The benefits of using a Mac include all the action codes that can be used to operate the programs on the computer without using the mouse, which can make the use of the computer easier and a person's time on a computer more efficient.

First, to open a new file or window a person can use the apple key and the letter n. To refresh a page while using Safari the apple key and the r key can be used. To close any program a person can use the apple key and the q key. For all command combinations a person should start by pressing the apple key followed by another key or combination of keys. When editing a document there are several useful and quick commands to simplify the process; to copy use c, paste can be completed using v and finally to cut the x key can be pressed in combination with the apple key. The command codes for all operations in the programs on a Mac are displayed next to the name of the operation in the drop down menus.

When using a Mac right clicking the mouse is no different then left clicking the mouse. This can be a hard adjustment for people that are used to right clicking to select items. An example of this change is when a person is trying to save picture from a web page. On a PC this would be done by right clicking on the picture and then select the save picture as option. Where as on a Mac to save the picture in the easiest way a person can simply drag the picture from the webpage onto their desktop, then moving it to the desired location for the picture to be saved.

Finally, adapting to looking for programs designed for Macs. Also it is important to be aware that some downloadable applications cannot be used on a Mac. Most programs come in versions for Macs and for PCs, so a person will still be able to use their favorite programs on a Mac. This should not be a determining consideration on whether or not to purchase a Mac. Adapting to using a Mac is not that difficult and many people enjoy using a Mac once they become used to using a Mac.