The key to using a computer effectively is minimizing the time between thinking you want to do something, and that something being done. In other words, minimizing the time spent doing things unrelated to the task on hand. If you are a writer, you want to spend your time on the computer writing. You don’t want to spend time searching for files, messing with formatting or looking up the spelling of a word.
As is the case for most of us, I spend more time in front of a screen than I would prefer. In an effort to spend less time, here are my tips on becoming a computer super user!
Apps
Alfred
- This app is an absolute must. It is a beefed up Spotlight search.
- You can open apps, search files, and create custom workflows to automate repetitive tasks
- I could seriously not live without this app. Check it out here.
💡 Hit option + c to open clipboard history and control over a highlighted item to see available actions.
Contexts
- Contexts is an improved window switcher which also allows you to switch between multiple windows of the same application.
- Much needed upgrade over the MacOS default
Window Tiler
- Mac lacks good window management.
- I use Magnet but there are other free versions available
- Make sure to learn the hot keys!!
Chrome Extensions
Ad Blocker
- This is an another absolute must that everyone should have
- I use Ad Block Plus
Video Speed controller
- Easily control the speed of any video in intervals of 0.1x
- The hot keys are great to quickly slow the video down or speed it up further
- Check it out here
Password Manager
- A password manager will make your life 10x easier, and reduce your risk of being hacked
- Get the chrome extension and learn the keyboard shortcuts to auto-full passwords
- This makes logging in to anything painless. Seriously, get this set up.
💡 Bitwarden is a free and trusted password manager. Hit cmd + shift + L to auto fill the password.
System Configuration
Remove the Mac Dock
- Remove everything from the Mac dock and make it hidden when not hovered. You should not be using it for anything
- Use Alfred and Contexts to switch between apps
- Also move the dock to the side if you do use it to maximize vertical screen real estate. Vertical screen real estate is more important than horizontal screen real estate.
Max mouse speed
- Set your mouse speed to max. It will take some time to get use to but it will be worth it.
Take the time to configure repetitive tasks
- Take note of what things you do repeatedly, and what things cause you pain when you have to do.
- It is worth the 10 minute google search to see if there is a way to make it easier or to automate it.
Best Practices
Store information
- Be liberal storing information. This may mean bookmarking websites in chrome, or pasting things into notes.
- You may never come back to things, but when you need something you will be grateful to your past self.
- This means that you need to have organized systems to store this information so it can actually be found later. Too much information is the same as no information.
Desktop as the inbox
- I treat the desktop as an inbox, or my working folder. Anything I am actively working on I will save files directly to the desktop. This allows me to see everything I have on the go, and acts as a reminder of things to get done.
- However, nothing stays on the desktop forever. Everything must either be:
- Acted on
- Categorized and stored
- Deleted
- This is similar to many inbox management systems where you have diligent categorization systems.
Learn shortcuts
- Take the time to learn key board shorts. They will be awkward at the start but will be infinitely worth it.
- I keep a note of shortcuts I am currently learning. If I forget what it is I can quickly check the note as a reminder. Eventually I don’t need the reminder anymore
💡 cmd + shift + 8 creates a list bulleted list in Google Docs. I have used this obscure shortcut hundreds of times over the years.
Let me know if you have any other tips!
– Mitch
Quote of the Week
Play long-term games with long-term people. All returns in life, whether in wealth, relationships, or knowledge, come from compound interest - Naval Ravikant
Favourite Things of The Week
The Stranger - Albert Camus
I enjoyed the read, I got less philosophy out of it than I was expecting. Reminded me ofThe Count of Monte Cristo.
Business Breakdowns: Twilio
I was surprised at how interesting this episode was. Some great insights into the API economy, and empowering the developer.
How to get rich without getting lucky - Naval Ravikant
I have read and listened to this multiple times. Always take away something new.