Even if you’re a computer whiz, you need to have some help once in a while. Don’t worry, we won’t tell. And with these resources and tools, you will be able to create the computer you need and the efficiency your task requires of you. With just a few resources and tools at your disposal, you can be the one your friends turn to when their computers are acting up. Never hurts to start charging them for your expertise, you know.
Books and Manuals
While most computer equipment comes with manuals and user guides, you might want to look into books that aren’t created by the manufacturer. Those who have used the systems, learned the bugs, and have decided to write about these bugs for the benefit of others have created these books. These are invaluable books that you can buy from a number of sources, helping to create an entire bookshelf of books that are going to answer all of the questions you have, even before you can think to ask them.
You will also want to go back to the manual that came with your computer. This is going to help you find what you should have done and how to troubleshoot your concerns and issues. And if that doesn’t work, then you might want to talk to others.
User Forums
You might also want to look into user forums to help you with your computer questions. Just by typing in your question and a few other details, other computer whizzes will be able to help you get the answers you need in a timely fashion. You might also want to look into the boards on the computer and software manufacturer sites as well. Those who made the software and the computers, and have the insider scoop on how to handle problems too, often watch these boards. But when you’re in a hurry, you don’t want to go to the forums since you might not get an answer as quickly as you might like.
Common Sense
Here’s the computer skill that many people don’t realize is something they can already do for themselves and for their computers – use their head. Most of the computer problems that arise are user error, not because there’s something wrong with the computer. Take some time to look at the computer, to look at what’s happening, and to ensure that you are doing the things you’re supposed to do. Something might not be plugged in, you might just need to have the computer rebooted, etc. Slow down, take a breath, and think about what the computer just did.
Of course, the help desk is there for a reason too. If you’re not having a problem with the hardware of your computer, you should be able to take it to a local repair shop to have it fixed. This will be costly, but not having to do the work yourself is certainly better than staying up late and getting angry at a piece of metal.