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As most people would readily concur, computers have become critical components of our everyday living. As such, they are widely acclaimed for providing an unparalleled level of convenience and efficiency in terms of undertaking a wide variety of tasks – both in our professional and personal lives. However, many individuals have yet to fully grasp even the most basic computing skills. This includes sending and receiving emails, internet browsing, basic computer security best practices, and the list goes on. Should you fall into this category, below are the top 5 computer skills everyone should master.
1. Keyboard shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts have been specifically put in place to enhance the overall computer usage experience. They allow computer users to accomplish numerous, essential computing tasks in a stress-free and time-efficient manner. You’re not required to memorize all the keyboard shortcuts, rather, only those which can be indispensable to various frequent tasks. This includes “Ctrl + C”, which initiates the copy function, “Ctrl + V” which triggers the paste function, and “Ctrl + X” for the cut function. The lesser-known “Ctrl + backspace” allows you to delete the whole previous word as opposed to just single characters.
2. Internet basics
Search engines are synonymous with the internet due to the many advantages they present. Hence, you will have to master the basics of advanced search, like identifying the various Boolean operators. This includes the connectors ‘+’, ‘AND’, ‘OR’ and even ‘NOT’. You will also need to learn how to identify mediocre resources at just a single glance.
At the same time, you will have to master how to utilize web browsers more efficiently in order to fully tap into the powerful potential of the internet. Some of the basic web browser skills you can master include opening links in new browser windows, using bookmarks, and clearing browser caches.
3. Computer security best practices
You don’t need to be a fully fledged IT expert to be able to comprehend the basics of protecting your PC and software from external attacks. This naturally includes knowing how to enable your PC’s firewall and also how to effectively use antivirus applications. Both of which can be able to offer some invaluable protection from viruses and malware that may try to take advantage of vulnerabilities in your system. You will also need to master how to formulate strong and secure passwords to prevent malicious individuals from gaining access to critical files or applications in your system.
4. Sending and receiving emails
Email has effectually replaced the conventional mailing system as the communication medium of choice for many individuals and even business organizations. As such, it is always an excellent idea to learn how to send and receive emails the right way, while taking advantage of the wide range of functionalities these applications come with. This includes mass mailing, URL insertion, and adding attachments.
5. Touch typing
Touch typing is a critical computer skill you should make an effort to master, even if you are not a professional typist. This particular skill lets you rely on your motor reflexes rather than your sight. It lets you place your concentration on your PC’s screen rather than the keyboard as with most other typing techniques.
As you proceed to master touch typing, you will eventually find that your typing speed and accuracy have greatly improved. This in turn will improve your overall efficiency and productivity in the various computing tasks you undertake, whether in your professional or personal pursuits.
Finally, learning touch typing will also impart you with typing best practices such as ideal posture and finger placement. This will assist you in avoiding injury, particularly when you are engaged in protracted typing sessions.
This article was contributed by guest author Adam Fort.