First-time Mac user, how to learn for what I want to do?

Discussion in 'Mac Basics and Help' started by PDFierro, Jul 17, 2011.

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  1. PDFierro, Jul 17, 2011

    PDFierro macrumors 68040

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    #1
    So the new 11-inch Air will be my first Mac and I've used Windows all my life. I'm trying to see what would the best way to go about how to learn how to use a Mac.

    I'm pretty experienced with computers, so I'm not a newbie or anything. I did play with the Air for two hours at the Apple store last week, and will be going again tomorrow night. But I didn't learn much.

    I know how to do the basics: open programs, close them, navigate my way around the computer, etc.

    I'm wanting to know how to use the Mac on a deeper level. Would it be a good idea to purchase One to One with my Mac and learn from a specialist in the store, or is there guides online that could easily teach me?

    As I said, I know how to use a Mac at the basic level already ... but I'm wanting to know how to do things easily on the system. Like I do with Windows. I automatically know what's the fastest way to do something. Going into the file storage system, using the start menu, etc. Basically I need help navigating a Mac like a pro, if I'm explaining myself clearly.

    I haven't even crawled my way into using Finder and the Dock yet.

    I should also add that I'm a writer, and will be using the Mac for a few other things. So looking to increase my productivity. Thanks!
     
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  2. GGJstudios, Jul 17, 2011

    GGJstudios macrumors Westmere

    GGJstudios

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    #2
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  3. Mrguidogenio, Jul 17, 2011

    Mrguidogenio macrumors regular

    Mrguidogenio

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    #3
    As you are a writer, check out some app like OmmWriter or WriterRoom. They focus in your writing as they don't have too many fonts and color and things distracting you like microsoft Work. they also come with relaxing music, so it really help you to concentrate.
     
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  4. Daffodil, Jul 18, 2011

    Daffodil macrumors 6502

    Daffodil

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    #4
    May I ask how old you are? When I changed from pc to mac it didn't require any instruction and I've never had real issues with it - it seemed almost entirely intuitive to me. For specific issues you can always search online or ask on this (or a similar) forum. I'm in my early twenties, and imagine the same would go for most people under 50 with some computer proficiency...

    You've already spent loads of time with it at the apple store, and once you get your own, you'll learn a ton in the process of customizing it. While I recognize that people learn differently, I think the best way is just playing around with it. Honestly, the only reason I can imagine you would need instruction is if you're mostly computer-illiterate, or older and not too used to technology problem-solving on your own.
     
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  5. jbjones85, Jul 18, 2011

    jbjones85 macrumors member

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    #5
    I just made the switch about a month ago and I learned just by experimenting with the system and a lot of google and forum searches. There is a ton of information out there. Plus its pretty intuitive.
     
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  6. Shrink, Jul 18, 2011

    Shrink macrumors G3

    Shrink

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    #6


    Us old folks can barely pull up our Depends without instructions.

    Old dogs, new tricks - big problem. :(
     
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  7. PDFierro, Jul 18, 2011

    PDFierro thread starter macrumors 68040

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    #7
    It seems like the best way to learn is just playing around with it, which is what I thought. I am 21 and have plenty of computer experience, so I can figure out everything on my own.

    I actually spent some more time at the Apple store tonight and feel really comfortable with it now.

    Thanks!
     
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  8. And1ss, Jul 18, 2011

    And1ss macrumors 6502a

    And1ss

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    #8
    Are you part of Apple's One-to-One training service?
     
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  9. Daffodil, Jul 19, 2011

    Daffodil macrumors 6502

    Daffodil

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    #9
    Haha, not meant to be mean - just been doing a lot of tech support for my dad lately, who seems stumped by seemingly-obvious things ;)
     
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