There are over 1.5 billion active Apple devices worldwide, making it one of the most famous tech companies. But, of course, Apple doesn’t only produce iPhones and iPads. They also sell MacBooks, popular for their user-friendly operating software and sleek interface.
Whether you are thinking of purchasing your first MacBook or are a lifetime user, you’ll want to keep reading this article as we share some of the best MacBook tips and tricks!
- Use Split View to See Multiple Applications Simultaneously
When learning how to use a MacBook, one of the first things you should experiment with is the split-screen view! You’ll find that comes in handy when you’re multitasking or working in multiple windows. So, how do you use it?
First, go to the upper left corner of any window and click and hold onto the green button. Then, you’ll have the option of moving that window to the left or right side of the screen. Finally, you can select the additional window you want to use.
And, when it’s time to get out of split-screen mode, you can press “Esc” on your keyboard.
- Use Your iPad as an Extra Monitor
But, what if the split-screen isn’t enough to display all your open windows? Then, you’ll want to use Sidecar, an Apple feature that allows you to turn your iPad into a second monitor, as long as both are recent models.
To use Sidecar, you’ll need to connect your iPad and Mac using USB or wirelessly. First, of course, both devices need to be logged into the same Apple ID with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and handoff turned on.
Next, locate Airplay in the MacBook’s menu bar and select your iPad from the list of devices. After the icon changes, you can click the menu again and select the following options:
- Mirror Mac’s display
- Extend Mac’s display
- Show the iPad’s Sidebar
- Hide the iPad’s Sidebar
- Disconnect the iPad
Another benefit of pairing your devices is using your Apple Pencil to draw or sign documents on your computer.
- Screenshot All or Part of Your Screen
If you want tips on how to use MacBooks for beginners, this one’s for you!
Taking a screenshot on your MacBook is quite easy! Simply press Command + Shift + 3. Of course, this will screenshot the entire window.
But what if you only want to capture a portion of the screen? If so, follow these steps!
- Hold Command + Shift +4
- Press and hold the icon that appears until the grey box covers the entire area you want to screenshot
- Release and capture your screenshot
This feature comes in handy when you need to save important information you find online or don’t have time to take notes on a presentation during a video conference or lecture!
- Do Not Disturb Mode
Sometimes it’s hard to stay focused on a task when iMessages and other applications keep flooding your Macbook with notifications. That’s when “Do Not Disturb” comes in handy.
On most Macs, you will find this feature in the Sidebar. Selecting it will pause all notifications, eliminating distractions so you can get more done!
- Have Text Read to You
Most of us forget to check out the Accessibility options on MacBook, but there is one that’s useful for most of us: Speak Selection. Once you enable this feature, you can have your computer read highlighted text aloud.
This feature is particularly handy for people who spend long hours using the computer since it allows them to rest their eyes and take a break while still being productive.
- Use Other Devices as Scanners or Cameras
Whether you’re making a presentation or need to scan a document, the Continuity Camera can help! It allows you to use the camera on an Apple device directly from your MacBook.
If you’re logged into the same Apple ID with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, Control-click and select “, Import/Insert from iPhone or iPad.” Then, you’ll have the option to choose the device you want to use and whether to scan, sketch, or take a photo.
For now, this feature is primarily available in Apple apps, such as Pages, Messages, or Mail. However, some third-party apps allow you to use it as well.
- Navigate Your MacBook with Multi-Touch
One of the special features that make MacBooks easy to use is the Multi-Touch gestures.
- Open Notification Center: swipe left from the right edge using two fingers
- Go back or forward: Swipe left or right with two fingers
- Smart zoom: double-tap with two fingers
- Rotate: move two fingers around each other
There are dozens of different gestures, so be sure to use your MacBook’s manual or Apple Support to learn them all!
Of course, if you don’t like a certain gesture, you can turn it off or modify it in System Preferences under “Trackpad.”
- Add a Signature to a Document
If you don’t know how to sign a document on your computer, pay attention to these steps that make it easy.
- Open the PDF document in Preview
- Click in the Markup logo
- Select “Create Signature”
- Sign with your finger
The best part is that signing with the trackpad allows you to create a natural signature like you would with a pen.
- Edit Fonts or Make a Custom One
If you’re using a MacBook in a visual field or to create presentations, editing fonts can help you stand out and make a good impression. Thankfully, several different software programs make it a breeze to edit fonts or create one on your own! So, be sure it check them out if that’s something that interests you.
Boost Your Productivity with These MacBook Tips and Tricks!
After reading all these tips that can help you be more productive, you’re likely considering buying a MacBook. And if you have one already, you know how to use it much better and work efficiently.
But, of course, if you have an older model, you may need to visit the Apple Store for MacBook help that allows you to access all these features.
If you’d like more MacBook tips and tricks, don’t forget to browse more posts on our website about technology!
