Learning Basic Computer Commands

Learning Basic Computer Commands 

 1. Select files and text. You can use your mouse or keyboard shortcuts to select files on your computer and text on documents and website. Click and drag the mouse across the text you want to select, or press Ctrl+A (PC) or ⌘ Cmd+A (Mac) to select everything in your current location. Once you've selected files or text, there are several different actions you can take. 

 2. Copy and paste. Copying and pasting is one of the most common actions taken when selecting text or files. "Copying" a file or text leaves the original intact, while creating a copy on your computer's clipboard. You can then "Paste" the file or text elsewhere. 

• For PC, copy by pressing Ctrl+C and paste by pressing Ctrl+V. You can also copy and paste by right-clicking on the selection with your mouse and selecting the appropriate option from the menu. 
• For Mac, Copy by pressing ⌘ Cmd+C and paste by pressing ⌘ Cmd+V. You can also copy and paste by right-clicking on the selection with your mouse and selecting the appropriate option from the menu. 

 3. Save and open files. Many programs such as word processors, photo editors, and more allow you to create and save documents and files. When working on a computer, it is wise to save often. You never know when the power might go out, costing you hours of unsaved work. Get in the habit of saving often, and if you are making major revisions to a file it might be wise to create a new copy. You can quickly save your work in most programs that allow saving by pressing Ctrl+S (PC) or ⌘ Cmd+S (Mac). 

• If you have a lot of important files on your computer, consider setting up a backup system. This will ensure that you have at least one extra copy of all your important files should something happen to your computer. Windows and Mac OS X both have backup systems built into the operating system. 

4. Find and sort your files. As you use your computer more and more, your personal collection of documents, media, and files may start to get a bit out of control. 

• Take some time and organize your personal folders. You can create new folders to help create a directory of easily-accessible information.