even such a little computer is unimaginably more powerful than (and a fraction of the cost of) computers just 10 years ago. The hardware consists of the screen, as well as optional components such as a keyboard and a mouse.
You don't need much time with a computer to conclude that there has to be an easier way to do things. At times, computers seem overly complex and inscrutable. Have you used a cellphone lately? Or a TV remote control? Why are the controls on every microwave oven different? Why does every new tool offer countless options you don’t want that obscure the ones you do want? Well, I don’t have the answers to those questions, but I do have step-by-step instructions for many tasks you want to perform using Windows 10.
After many years of working with computers, I find that they reward patience, curiosity, and a little methodical exploration. Seniors, in particular, know that learning never really stops and that learning new things keeps one young, at least figuratively. By the end of this book, you may be a multitasking computerist performing virtual gymnastics with Windows 10. On the other hand, if this book helps you do only one thing — use email, browse the web, or enjoy photos or music — that one useful thing may be all you need.
About This Book
Age is just a number. This book is intended for anyone getting started with Windows 10 who wants step-by-step instructions without a lot of discussion. Numerous figures with notes show you the computer screen as you progress through the steps. Reading this book is like having an experienced friend stand behind you as you use Windows 10 … someone who never takes control of the computer away from you.
Windows 10 is a work in progress. Microsoft updates the Windows 10 operating system from time to time to make it more secure and agreeable to the people who use it. (Chapter 3 explains how to check for updates to Windows 10.) Because the operating system is continuously updated, the screen shots you see in this book may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
Conventions Used in This Book
This book uses certain conventions to highlight important information and help you find your way around:
Different methods for performing steps: In general, you can complete a step in three ways. I list the choices as follows:Mouse: If you have a mouse, follow these instructions.Touchscreen: You may be able to touch your screen to perform tasks.Keyboard: Keyboard shortcuts are often the fastest way to do something.When you have a choice between these methods, experiment to determine which is easiest for you.
Tip icons: Point out helpful suggestions related to tasks in the step lists.
Bold: I use bold for figure references as well as for when you have to type something onscreen using the keyboard. Many figures have notes or other markings to draw your attention to a specific part of the figure. The text tells you what to look for; the figure notes help you find it.
Website addresses: If you bought an e-book, website addresses are live links. In the text, website addresses look like this: www.dummies.com. See Chapter 6 for information on browsing the web.
Options and buttons: Although Windows 10 often uses lowercase in options and on buttons, I capitalize the text for emphasis. That way, you can find a button labeled Save Now, even though onscreen it appears as Save now.
How to Read This Book
You can work through this book from beginning to end or simply look at the table of contents or index to find the instructions you need to solve a problem or learn a new skill whenever you need it. The steps in each task get you where you want to go quickly, without a lot of technical explanation. In no time, you’ll start picking up the skills you need to become a confident Windows 10 user.
Technology always comes with its own terms and concepts, but you don’t need to learn another language to use a computer. You don’t need any prior experience with computers or Windows. Step-by-step instructions guide you through specific tasks, such as accessing the news or playing a game. These steps provide just the information you need for the task at hand.
Foolish Assumptions
I assume that you have a computer and want clear, brief, step-by-step instructions on getting things done with Windows 10. I assume also that you want to know just what you need to know, just when you need to know it. This isn’t Computers 101. This is Practical Windows 10. As an old friend of mine said, “I don’t want to make a watch; I just want to know what time it is.”
How This Book Is Organized
This book is divided into four parts to help you find what you need. You can read from cover to cover or just jump to the page that interests you.
Part 1: Getting Started with Windows 10: In Chapter 1, you turn on the computer and get comfortable with essential parts of Windows 10, such as the Start screen, as well as how to use a mouse, touchscreen, or keyboard. Explore features of Windows 10 apps in Chapter 2. To customize Windows 10 to work better for you, turn to Chapter 3. In Chapter 4, you create and modify user account settings, such as passwords. Discover the desktop, how to manage windows, and how to customize the desktop in Chapter 5.
Part 2: Windows 10 and the Web: Use the web to stay current and keep in touch. Turn to Chapter 6 to use Edge to browse the web. Send and receive email in Chapter 7. Turn to Chapter 8 to explore a handful of apps that can help you stay in touch with friends and get to know the outside world better.
Part 3: Having Fun with Windows 10: If you haven’t been having any fun until now, I’ve failed you. Expand your tools and toys in Chapter 9 by connecting to Microsoft Store to install new apps. In Chapter 10, you enjoy photos on Windows 10 and put your own photos on the computer. If you want to listen to music and watch a video, see Chapter 11.
Part 4: Beyond the Basics: In Chapter 12, you learn about the care and feeding of Windows 10, which requires a little maintenance now and then. Find out how to connect a printer and other hardware, such as a mouse and a second screen, in Chapter 13. Do you appreciate the saying “a place for everything and everything in its place”? Chapter 14 is where you organize your documents. And finally, you back up your files to insure against loss and refresh Windows 10 when it gets cranky,