Apple Hacks

Unlock MacOS's hidden productivity features to maximize your workflow!

If you’re a Mac user looking to improve your productivity and workflow, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll cover some MacOS hacks that can make your life easier and help you get more done in less time.

Getting Started

Learning these MacOS hacks can benefit anyone who spends a lot of time on their computer, whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who wants to get more done in less time.

By learning these hacks, you can streamline your workflow, save time, and reduce stress.

How to

  1. Use Spotlight to search for files and launch apps quickly. Press Command + Space to open Spotlight, then start typing the name of the file or app you’re looking for. Spotlight will suggest matches as you type, and you can use the arrow keys to select the one you want.
  2. Use the split-screen feature to view two apps side-by-side. Click and hold the green full-screen button in the top-left corner of an app window, then drag it to the left or right side of the screen. Select another app to fill the other half of the screen.
  3. Create custom keyboard shortcuts for frequently-used commands. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts, then select App Shortcuts. Click the “+” button to add a new shortcut, then type in the exact name of the command you want to assign a shortcut to.
  4. Use the built-in dictation feature to type without using your hands. Press the Function (fn) key twice to start dictation, then speak your text aloud. MacOS will transcribe your words in real-time.
  5. Use the “Do Not Disturb” feature to block notifications and stay focused. Click the Notification Center icon in the top-right corner of the screen, then scroll up to reveal the “Do Not Disturb” option. Click it to activate it.

Best Practices

  • Customize your settings to suit your needs. MacOS offers a lot of customization options, so take the time to explore them and find what works best for you.
  • Keep your desktop organized. Use folders and tags to keep your files and apps in order, and delete anything you don’t need.
  • Use a password manager to keep your login credentials secure. MacOS comes with Keychain, but there are also third-party options available.
  • Regularly update your software to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.

Examples

Let’s say you’re a freelance writer who works from home.

You use your Mac to write articles, communicate with clients, and manage your finances.

Here are some real-world examples of how these MacOS hacks could benefit you:

Spotlight: You need to find a specific article you wrote last month, but you can’t remember the exact title.

Instead of sifting through all your files manually, you can use Spotlight to search for it by typing in a few keywords.

Split-screen: You’re working on an article and need to reference some research you did earlier.

Instead of switching back and forth between windows, you can use split-screen to view your research and your article side-by-side.

Custom keyboard shortcuts: You frequently use the “Save As” command to create new versions of your articles.

Instead of going to the File menu every time, you can create a custom keyboard shortcut (like Command + Shift + S) to save time.

Dictation: You’re feeling a bit of writer’s block and want to try a different approach.

Instead of typing, you can use dictation to speak your ideas aloud and see where they take you.

Do Not Disturb: You’re on a tight deadline and need to focus.

Instead of being distracted by notifications, you can activate Do Not Disturb to block them all until you’re finished.

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