PCs For Dummies® Windows®, 7 Edition

Chapter 31. Ten Tips from a PC Guru

In This Chapter

• Remember that you're in charge

• Mind who "helps" you

• Give yourself time to learn

• Create separate accounts

• Use a UPS

• Consider some hardware upgrades

• Avoid crying "Wolf" in e-mail

• Don't reinstall Windows

• Shun the hype

• Don't take this computer stuff too seriously

I don't consider myself a computer expert or genius or guru, though many have called me those nasty names. I'm just a guy who understands how computers work. Or, better than that, I understand how computer people think and I can translate it into English for you. Given that, here are some tips and suggestions so that you and your PC can go on your merry way.

Remember That You're in Charge

You bought the computer. You clean up after its messes. You feed it optical discs when it asks for them. You press the Any key (which is the Enter key). You control the computer — simple as that.

Think of the computer as an infant. You must treat it the same way, with respect and caring attention. Don't feel that the computer is bossing you around any more than you feel that a baby is bossing you around during its 3 a.m. feedings. They're both helpless creatures, subject to your every whim. Be gentle, but be in charge.

Mind Who "Helps" You

Nothing beats getting computer help when you need it. Most computer nerds love to help beginners. Sometimes, they help you at no cost, though you shouldn't abuse a good relationship by becoming a pest.

Note

When you can't find help, use the support you paid for: from your ...