FAQ

Click on number to read answer

1. Am I too old to learn to use the computer?

2. Where do I begin?

3. Where can I get help?

4. Are frequent backups of  valuable computer data desirable?

5. Can the Internet be trusted?

6. What are pros and cons of using email?

7. What is a computer virus, how do I get one, and how do I get rid of one?

8. What are computer keyboard shortcuts and is there any value in using them?

9. What is "Goog411" and how do I use it?

10. Is defragmenting the hard drive in my computer necessary? If so, how is it done and how often?

NOTE:  If you have a computer-related question you would like answered and/or added to this list, please email me at askclint@gmail.com.

1. Am I too old to learn to use the computer?

Never! I have taught adult learners - including several octogenarians and many other senior citizens - the basics of personal computing and at no time did I see age as being a negative factor. What makes you think you are an exception?

2. Where do I begin?

I'll answer a question with a question. How did you begin to learn to walk? Get into position, get help and take that first step. You will be amazed at how fast you will progress.

3. Where can I get help?

Naturally I would like to be your tutor at the computer; however, in lieu of that, check for classes at your local library, senior center or, if available in your area, SeniorNet.

4. Are frequent backups of valuable computer data desirable?

No, they are absolutely essential! "Frequent" is define by how often you create/alter/delete data on your computer. Time spent understanding and using some form of backup system is nothing compared to time invested in - even the possibility of - recovering days, weeks or months of data input.

5. Can the Internet be trusted?

No, no, no, and NO! You've heard the phrase, "Let the buyer beware." In this case it's, "Let the surfer beware." Do not be paranoid about using it; just be cautious.


6. What are pros and cons of using email?

Pros:


Cons:
7. What is a computer virus, how do I get one, and how do I get rid of one?

An electronic "germ" that can attack your computer in one of many ways. You can get one in basically the same way your body can get a biological virus - by being unprotected. An anti-virus program can prevent or, after the fact, remove a virus from your system. The following site offers a free anti-virus program for non-commercial users: www.avast.com. Caution: do not have more than one anti-virus program active on your computer at one time.

8. What are computer keyboard shortcuts and is there any value in using them?

According to Wikipedia, "Keyboard shortcuts are typically an alternate means for invoking one or more commands that would otherwise be accessible only through a menu, a pointing device, different levels of a user interface, or via a command console." I have found them to be valuable and highly convenient, especially when using the Copy/Cut and Paste feature. For example, wherever you are in Windows - any version - holding down the Control (Ctrl) key and tapping the letter "p" invokes the Print dialog box. Try it right here where you are. For a list of what I consider to be the most valuable keyboard shortcuts, click here (requires Microsoft Word).

9.  What is "Goog411" and how do I use it?

This is a free service from Google that allows you to call nearly any business in the U.S. TOLL FREE without using its phone number.  I don't know about you, but I rarely remember a business's telephone number.  It can be used from any phone - home or cell.  Here's how it works:
Dial: 800-GOOG411 (800-466-4411) and follow the prompts.  That's it!
Hint:  I usually ignore the initial request for "say the business" and just give city and state.  The next prompt will be for the name of the business and Goog already knows where to "look".

10.  Is defragmenting the hard drive in my computer necessary? If so, how is it done and how often?

The best discussion I have found covering this issue is at: http://www.helpwithpcs.com/maintenance/hard-drive-maintenance-defrag.htm (You will, however, need to wade through the advertising - as with most "free" web-based assistance). If you have a Windows version newer than XP (Vista or 7), follow the instructions for "Defragmenting  in Windows XP."