There are several reasons why a user might decide to switch from Windows to OS X; maybe a family member just bought an Apple computer, or maybe you just got hired in an office that uses Macs. Whatever the reason, this article will help you get used to the transition from Windows to Mac.
Steps
Step 1. Find the dock
This is the essential part of OS X, similar to the Start menu and the Windows tastkbar. The dock is where new installed or open applications are located. There are also minimized windows and the waste basket, which work just like on Windows.
Step 2. If you use keyboard shortcuts, learn Mac shortcuts
Most of these shortcuts are identical to those of Windows, except that on Windows you use the Control key, on Mac the Command key, which is located next to the space bar and is indicated by the Solomon's knot symbol.
Step 3. Learn to use the Finder
Finder works like Windows Explorer, and you'll get used to it easily. Remember that folders have different names on Mac. “Documents” is the “Home” folder, “Program Files” is the “Applications” folder, etc.
Step 4. Get familiar with the Apple menu
The Apple menu opens by clicking on the apple at the top left of the screen, and it is on this button that you need to click to turn off the computer, put it in standby, access system preferences, terminate applications and much more.
Step 5. Pay attention to the applications in the Menu
On the left side, between the Apple menu and the File menu, the name of the application will be written. By clicking on the name of the application you will be given options, such as hiding all application windows or hiding the windows of other applications, or terminating the application.
Step 6. Learn how to end crashed programs
Many programs crash for no reason. When that happens, hit Command + S to try to save the data you were working on. Once this is done, click and hold the crashed program on the dock. Hold Option and click Force Close. Congratulations, you just finished a program.
Advice
- Refer to the documentation, Apple Help and Apple's Knowledge Base (see link). If you still need help, and the 90-day warranty is still valid, contact Apple Technical Support.
- To add new links to the dock, simply drag and drop them onto it. To remove a link, drag it out.
- Before buying a Mac, try using one at the App Store or at a friend's house.
Warnings
- The programs and accessories you use for your Windows computer may not be compatible with Mac OS X. Be sure to refer to the documentation. You may find yourself having to repurchase the software you usually use in the Mac version, such as Photoshop or Microsoft Word.
- When you install an application, the new application icon may not appear on the dock. To add it, go to the Applications folder, find the name and icon of the application and drag it to the dock. To remove it from the dock, simply drag it out. The application will be deleted from the dock.
- Removing an application from the dock will not remove it from the system.
- Many people who are just starting to use OS X get bored and say nothing can be done about it. Although the new Mac OS PC applications can be used with bootCamp. Like anything new, you will have to dedicate some time to learning it and get used to it. On the Mac, everything is plug-in and most of the time there is no need to configure any external peripherals.
- A common misconception is that Macintosh computers cannot be punctured and do not catch viruses. They are not 100% impenetrable. To be always safe, still use the firewall built into the Sharing pane of System Preferences. However, third-party antivirus and firewall programs are not necessary, and indeed, they are more cumbersome than anything else.
- When you close an application (by clicking on the red X on the left of the window or by pressing Command-W), it will continue to run in the background. To end it, click on the name of the application in the menu bar and click Close. Alternatively, press Command + Q or Control + Click on the icon in the dock and click Close. Leaving unused applications running consumes RAM.
