The laptop is a fun, versatile and useful tool to have. Get one of your own as a gift, so you can learn how to use writing or graphics programs well without having to trade time with dear and old mum and dad on the family computer. Getting your parents to buy you a computer can be more or less simple, depending on how much you need it.
Steps
Step 1. Do some research on laptops
Browse the web and compare prices and features of laptops on the market. Don't underestimate the remanufactured computer market: they are a good choice to consider if money is an issue.
Choose an inexpensive model that you would like to own, and tell your parents about the product you are interested in
Step 2. Be patient and don't rush things
Talk to your parents but make sure you are not nagging. If you know that your parents are unable to afford the shopping right away then wait for a better time, otherwise you will receive a loud and clear NO.,
Step 3. Get good grades
Your parents will think you work hard enough to deserve a computer of your own.
Step 4. Exercise
Don't stay in front of the computer all the time and don't get lazy. Give parents the message that your life is not about sitting in front of the computer all day.
Step 5. Find out any reasons why your parents don't want you to have your own laptop
Common reasons are: "It's too expensive"; “We already have a computer, there is no need for a laptop”; "I will not give you a computer to keep you up all night on Facebook or Yutube!". If social networks are the only reason you want a laptop, you probably won't be able to get one. Explain to your own the advantages of a laptop over a desktop computer.
Step 6. Spend less time on the family PC - even better, avoid using it
Your parents will think, "Ohh, she doesn't stay at her computer all day!"
Step 7. Don't grumble
Chances are your parents will want to give you the PC as a surprise. But if you torment them, they'll take you for a spoiled brat. Let them surprise you for Christmas or your birthday. Learn to wait!
Step 8. Try searching Ebay for the laptop you want
Also check the reseller sites and find the best deal. If you are looking for an Alienware or other customizable laptop type show them a product that is good value for money.
Advice
- Asking for a computer around Christmas or your birthday can increase your chances of getting one, especially if there are several people contributing. You may get fewer gifts, but in the long run it's totally worth it.
- When you finally have your pc, behave responsibly. Don't do anything stupid like texting people bad, or your parents will immediately take it off and you won't have one again.
- Make it last. Don't go to illegal download sites. Even those you trust. User-created content contains viruses. Visiting these sites may not fill your pc with viruses, but you may receive spam emails containing them.
- Do what your parents would like you to do. It will improve the likelihood that they think you are a good, hard-working person who deserves recognition.
- If your PC has parental control, press the F8 key at startup, then "Enter" to enter safe mode, let it boot and use the PC in "Administrator" mode to make changes to the parental control.
- Get a netbook instead of a laptop. They work very similarly, except that netbooks are smaller (and most of them include features like webcam and microphone). Netbooks are also usually cheaper (usually between € 200 and € 400) and are mainly made to be portable, to be able to work and surf the internet from wherever you want. However, netbooks are not supposed to be used as primary computers, and cannot run video games with heavy graphics. They usually don't include MS Word or Powerpoint, unless you customize them, which can be expensive if you're not careful.
Warnings
- Computer addiction is a serious problem. Be very careful not to fall into this trap. When you have your own laptop you won't need to share it, but still be willing to do so. Like many other addictions, you may not realize how your behavior tends to change and hurt the people around you. Make sure you continue with your normal routine, and continue with your hobbies. If your parents think you may have this addiction, your chances of getting a laptop are nil, and rightly so.
- Don't overdo the price! Laptops to play games are expensive. If video games are your priority, look for a PC that doesn't cost too much money, maybe a fixed one.
