Tips 'n Tricks

Whether it's optimizing your computer or even your browser, there are loads of ways to cut down the time it takes to do things while making your time more productive.

This page will constantly change as I find new tips 'n tricks. Some will consist of applications, others will simply be tips that have been shared by others. I hope you find them helpful. Feel free to share any ideas or suggestions you have found helpful. Include your name and website and we'll do our best to include them here. You can Send me a note here.

Unsure About A File You Want To Open?
There are times when you receive an 'odd' file. There doesn't appear to be a program associated with it. Here's a suggestion for trying to discover a program that can open it. Just 'drag and drop' the file into different program icons. If the program is able to open the file, the application will launch and display the file. If the program isn't able to open the file, then it will display 'unavailable'.

Maximize And Store Your Windows
Another way to maximize or restore the buttons on your Windows Title Bar, try double-clicking the window's Title bar to maximize the window. To restore it, just double-click the Title bar again.

Organize Your Favorites Folder
You'll save yourself loads of time if you keep your Favorites folder organized right from the start. If you want to quickly add a folder to your Favorites, just right click anywhere in the folders pane and select 'Create New Folder' on the shortcut menu. You'll see a new folder appear - ready to be named.

Password Protect Your Computer in XP Using The Screensaver
In Windows XP you have the option to password protect your computer when it returns from the screensaver. 'Right click' your Desktop and select 'Properties' from the shortcut menu. Then click on the screensaver tab and choose 'on resume, password protect' to activate it. Click 'OK' and you're done.

Does the XP Control Panel Throw You Off?
The XP Control Panel does take some getting used to so if you miss the look of the old Windows Control Panel, you can easily get it back. Go to your Start menu, Settings and open your Control Panel. In the menu labelled 'Control Panel', click the switch to 'Classic View and you'll have the old one back.

Quick Print
If you need to print a document you can do so without launching the program first. Browse through your hard drive using Windows Explorer for the file you want to print. Then 'right cllick' the icon and select 'print' from the shortcut menu. This will send the document to your printer without having to open the program it was in first.

One Click Instead Of Two
This applies to those of you who run Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000 and XP. You can cut down on wrist and finger movement with this tip. Go to your Start Menu, Control Panel and Folder Options. From there select 'Web Style' for single click or select the 'Single Click' option. It will depend on which version of Windows you are running.

Add or Remove Icons From The Quick Launch Menu
So many applications choose to add icons to your quick launch bar and this isn't necessary. You decide what you want there. To remove an item, simply drag and drop it to the Recyle Bin. If you want to add one drag the sizer bar to the right so that there is an empty space on the bar, then drag and drop an icon from the Desktop to any empty spot on the taskbar.