MacBook Hacks That Make Life Easier
MacBook
Hacks
That
Make
Life
Easier
Every MacBook owner knows that their computer is both powerful and versatile, able to perform functions far outside the capabilities of a standard Windows device. Even the savviest Mac users probably don’t know everything their computer is capable of—after all, the list is virtually endless!
If you’re interested in taking your Mac experience to the next level, you’ve come to the right place. With a few MacBook hacks in your toolbelt, you’ll be able to get even more out of your favorite device.
To learn about some fantastic shortcuts and hacks that will enhance any Mac user’s experience, just keep reading.
Disable Your Notifications
One of the great things about Mac computers is that they sync with your iPhone, allowing you to text straight from your laptop. This also means, however, that on top of the email, calendar, and other computer notifications, you get text and FaceTime notifications as well.
While this can be handy if you’re browsing the web on a lazy Sunday afternoon, it’s not the most convenient feature when you’re trying to increase your productivity.
Luckily, Mac has a hack for that! You can put your computer in Do Not Disturb mode just like you do on your phone.
Simply click on the quick menu in the upper right-hand corner of your screen and select Do Not Disturb. This will turn your notifications off until you’re ready to turn them back on.
If you’re worried that you’re going to forget it’s on, hover over the button and click the arrow that appears to the right side. You’ll be able to choose a timer for the feature.
Get the Most Out of Spotlight
If you don’t already use the Spotlight feature, you’re missing out! It’s one of the most helpful Mac hacks available.
Command + Space will bring up the Spotlight Search bar. You now have access to all the information your computer has to offer.
For example, let’s say you’re wondering how many euros $45 will give you. All you have to do is type “$45” into Spotlight and you’re given the amount in euros. Or maybe you need to do a quick calculation—type your math operation into Spotlight and it will give you the answer.
Spotlight can also be used to find any message, email, or other files on your computer, provide definitions, look at the weather in any city, and search the web for a specific keyword.
Now, if you’re looking for a RAR file, you’ll still need an additional program to unpack it once you’ve found it. But don’t worry, it’s not too complicated. Take a look at https://setapp.com/ to learn everything you need to know!
Take Quick Screenshots
Everyone knows about the Screenshot app that comes preinstalled on every Mac computer. This is a useful little app, but not the most efficient means of snapping a picture of your screen.
This is because you can take Screenshots with the touch of a button instead! You have two options: windowed screenshot or full-screen.
To take a windowed screenshot, hit Command + Shift + 4. This will replace your pointer with a crosshair, allowing you to click and drag over the desired area.
For full-screen screenshots, hit Command + Shift + 3. This will snap a picture of your entire screen, toolbar, and all.
Access the Dictionary Mid-Read
If you’re looking for MacBook shortcuts that will enhance your reading and writing experience, this is the one for you. When you’re mid-read and you come across a word that you don’t recognize, hover over the word and tap your touchpad with three fingers. This will pull up a small window beneath the word giving both the dictionary definition and thesaurus entry.
The three-finger tap can take a few tries to master, but once you have it down, both your reading and browsing experience on your Mac will be greatly improved.
Use Incremental Volume and Brightness
Have you ever been listening to your favorite playlist and realized that the song was just a little too loud? Or too quiet? Though the standard volume buttons come with a wide variety of sound levels, sometimes you need more options.
Well, next time, try holding down Shift + Option while you’re changing the volume on your computer. This is one of the best MacBook tips for music lovers because it gives you four times more volume options. You can turn your songs up or down a fraction of a notch to get the perfect sound.
Take Advantage of Dictation
Whether you’re sitting in class struggling to keep up with the professor’s rapid-fire lecture or you’re wishing there was a way to speak your novel into existence rather than write it down, you’re in luck!
Mac’s dictation feature has gotten better and better over the years and is now close to flawless. The more you use dictation, the better your Mac will learn your voice and the more accurate your dictation software will be.
Get More Out of Your Tech With These MacBook Hacks
Mac computers are powerful devices, capable of handling just about any task you can imagine. However, if you don’t know about the many MacBook hacks you can use to enhance your experience, you aren’t getting the most out of your tech!
By using the MacBook tips listed here, you’ll have a more streamlined experience with your computer, maximizing both your fun and productivity on your device.
Looking for more tips for improving your time with your tech? Be sure to check out our blog!