Great Minds Think

When I first was introduced to Microsoft Windows, I can’t tell you how frustrated I was. First I had trouble with the mouse. I never realized how much my hand-eye coordination skills were lacking and I probably wanted to throw that stupid mouse a thousand times. Next was all the files. I kept forgetting where I had saved my files and couldn’t remember how to get back to where I was. Then there was Microsoft Word. “It’s so easy to use”. If I had a dollar for every time I heard that, I’d be a millionaire right now.

My point here is that everybody, EVERYBODY, has to start somewhere. Put aside your fear of the unknown and designate a consistent time to practice. You’re not going to understand everything overnight, and not everyone can learn from reading the instructions. Most community colleges offer some sort of low-cost entry-level computing course. Maybe the company you work for will spring for it.

Buying a Computer
Your first step is to find an affordable computer that you can learn on. In my opinion, Dell Desktops (www.dell.com) and HP Pavillions (www.hp.com) are the most affordable on the market. You might catch a break on a no-name system at a computer show or convention in your area. You won’t need to spend alot of money and getting a basic home configuration will suffice. My friend Chuck Stewart, can better help you with that. You can find him at www.computer-techies.com

Keyboarding
After you have purchased your computer, one thing you will absolutely have to learn is keyboarding - that is, learing how to type. Everyone starts out in “hunt and peck” mode but eventually you will need to get your speed up. A favorite program that I recommend is Mavis Beacon Typing. Her programs use word games to teach you how to type, and to help you visualize the keyboard. FYI, for years I used to look at the keys when I typed and it took me about a year of consistant computer use to be able to look away. Again, don’t expect success overnight.

Learning Your Way
Staring at it won’t get you very far, but turning it on and choosing a program to start with will help you get used to how it works. This can be very intimidating, especially if you don’t have a high level of patience, but persistence will get you where you need to be. Once you feel comfortable with one program, start with another and you’ll begin to see that most programs are organized the same way, and that they just have different functions. Keep at it and don’t give up. Remember, if you have internet access, a wealth of instructions are at your disposal by doing a search on Google or Yahoo.

Computer Ettiquette
“Information wants to be free..” is the creed of the technology world. Most seasoned people will answer your emails, help you through a problem, or walk you through a function provided you don’t suck the life out of them. In short, most people won’t have a problem with taking time to help you. New users tend to lean on a single helpful resource too much sometimes, so be aware of this, and make sure that you have enough email addresses and phone numbers to call when you get stuck. You wouldn’t want to wear out your welcome! Always try the instructions first, then ask for help.
Read, Read, READ
As with anything, you’re going to have to do your due diligence. Buying a few computer books and then doing the excercises in the book will be the best orientation you can get. Don’t be afraid of messing up or doing it wrong. Pace yourself and if you can’t work with the book you bought, consider buying a different one. I usually prefer the Peachpit books (www.peachpit.com), which teach you in a class-like format. Most of the authors have a companion website that will help you step by step.

Computers aren’t going anywhere. They’ve been around for years, and just about every industry now requires computer skills. If you don’t have them, you might as well excuse yourself from the universe and go into seclusion…and even then, you’re going to need email!

You’re on your way! Stick with it, and let me know how it goes.

- C