Gadget's Tips

Need to launch applications quickly and simply on your XP computer? Gadget certainly does. One way of getting instant access to applications is to have desktop icons, but Gadget likes an uncluttered view of his desktop picture (a nice meaty bone). Luckily he knows that in XP you can make room for more than the usual six short cuts in the "Start" menu favourites.

Have you built up a long list of carefully organised bookmarks? Gadget would be mighty upset to lose his bookmarks to websites about gourmet dog food!

The simplest way to ensure that you have a copy of your bookmarks is to include the "C:\Documents and Settings\\Application Data" folder in your regular backup schedule. In fact it's best to back up the whole Documents and Settings folder because it includes your bookmarks, your e-mails, your desktop, and the "My Documents" folder.

If you're not very good with your paws and don't always hit the shift key when you need it, Gadget has discovered that in Word you can quickly use your keyboard to change the case of text.

Select the text you want to change and press shift + F3 (or Ctrl + F3 and a Mac). Each time you press the F3 key the text case switches between Title Case, UPPER CASE, and lower case. So when Gadget wants to emphasize his liking for BONES, he can do that really quickly without having to retype.

It takes a lot of work and effort to build and grow your business, and even more time and effort to develop your business brand. So enhance your brand now by changing all home user email addresses like xyz@domain.co.uk or @aol.com.

Gadget's address is @foxhallsolutions.com. That ensures everyone knows where he works, and reminds them of the company name. It costs just a few pounds each month to have your own company domain name. Go for it!

And the advantages?

Gadget doesn't like anyone nosing around his computer when he pops out for a quick sniff around the neighbourhood. So, if you're popping away from your desk and don't want anyone snooping around your PC, hit the Windows key and "L" together which will lock the desktop. No one will be able to gain access to your PC unless they know your password.

Gadget is careful to make sure no one knows that his password is 'marrowbone' - but do make absolutely sure you know yours before you try this tip...!