Mac owner? STOP doing these 11 things!

Introduction

This tutorial outlines 11 common habits that many Mac owners should stop doing to enhance their productivity and overall experience. By following these steps, you can streamline your workflow, reduce frustration, and make the most of your Mac's capabilities.

Step 1: Stop Writing Out the Same Text Passages

• Use Text Expander Tools: Instead of repeatedly typing the same text, consider using text expansion tools like TextExpander or the built-in feature in macOS.
• Set Up Shortcuts: Create shortcuts for frequently used phrases or email responses to save time.

Step 2: Stop Using Notes to Scan Images

• Use the Preview App: Instead of relying on Notes for scanning documents, use the Preview app which offers better scanning capabilities.
• Scan with Your iPhone: If you have an iPhone, utilize the Notes app on your phone to scan documents, then share or save them directly to your Mac.

Step 3: Stop Trying to Keep Your Mac Awake

• Adjust Energy Saver Settings: Instead of using third-party apps to keep your Mac awake, adjust settings:
  • Go to System Preferences > Energy Saver.
  • Set the sleep timer to ‘Never’ for the display and computer while plugged in.

Step 4: Stop Using Services to Send Large Files

• Use AirDrop: For large files, use AirDrop to send files between Apple devices quickly.
• Use iCloud Drive: Upload files to iCloud Drive and share links instead of using external services.

Step 5: Stop Using Services to Share Screens

• Use Built-in Screen Sharing: Use macOS’s built-in screen sharing feature:
  • Go to System Preferences > Sharing.
  • Enable Screen Sharing and invite others to view your screen without third-party applications.

Step 6: Stop Manually Converting Images

• Use Preview for Batch Conversion: Instead of converting images one by one, use Preview to batch convert images:
  • Open all images in Preview.
  • Select all images, then go to File > Export Selected Images to choose the format.

Step 7: Stop Using Your Mac Webcam for Meetings

• Utilize External Cameras: For better video quality, consider using an external webcam instead of the built-in one. This often provides clearer images and better lighting.

Step 8: Stop Using Services to Share Images with Android

• Use AirDrop or Google Photos: Instead of relying on services, use:
  • AirDrop for quick sharing with nearby Apple devices.
  • Google Photos to share images easily with Android users.

Step 9: Stop Using Your Thumb and Finger to Drag

• Enable Trackpad Gestures: Use trackpad gestures for easier navigation:
  • Go to System Preferences > Trackpad and enable gestures for scrolling and swiping.

Step 10: Stop Printing and Scanning PDFs

• Utilize Digital Tools: Instead of printing and scanning, use PDF tools:
  • Use Preview or third-party apps like Adobe Acrobat to fill and sign documents digitally.

Step 11: Stop Accidentally Deleting Files

• Use Time Machine: Set up Time Machine for automatic backups to recover deleted files.
• Be Cautious with Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts to avoid accidental deletions, such as the Command + Delete combo.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can significantly improve your Mac usage and avoid common pitfalls. Start implementing these changes today to boost your productivity and make your Mac work better for you. Consider exploring additional tools or settings in macOS to further enhance your experience.