Tech Explained

Become an Efficiency Pro With These Simple Tech Tips

February 25, 2023 • Shannon Flynn

1. Utilize Task Management Tools

Task management tools are designed to help individuals and teams manage their tasks and priorities more efficiently. They can create and assign tasks, set deadlines, track progress, and communicate with team members. These tools allow individuals to focus on their work without worrying about missing important tasks or deadlines. Here are a few ways you can use task management tools to boost efficiency:

Create a task list: With an organized task list, you can prioritize your work and focus on the most important ones.
Use reminders: Task management tools often include reminders features that alert you when deadlines approach.
Set priorities: You can use task management tools to stay on track and avoid wasting time on low-priority tasks.
Collaborate with team members: You can meet and assign tasks to team members with a task management tool.
Monitor progress: With a task tracker, you can monitor your progress or that of your team members.

2. Learn Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time when navigating your computer. Rather than using a mouse to navigate menus or perform tasks, keyboard shortcuts allow users to perform actions with just a few keystrokes. For example, if your device acts up and you need to know how to restart your computer with a keyboard, press and hold the control (ctrl), alternate (alt) and delete keys at the same time, then follow the prompt. For a MacBook, press and hold the power button. After a few seconds, press the power icon once more to restart your Mac. Below are a few tips on using keyboard shortcuts:

Identify everyday tasks: To use keyboard shortcuts effectively, you must identify tasks that you perform frequently.
Memorize your common shortcuts: Once you’ve identified everyday tasks, take some time to memorize the keyboard shortcuts for them.
Use Shortcut Cheat Sheets: If you’re just getting started with keyboard shortcuts, using cheat sheets or a reference guide can be helpful.
Customize Shortcuts: If you find that a particular shortcut isn’t working for you, or if you have a specific shortcut that you’d like to use, check the application’s preferences or settings to see if you can customize the shortcut.
Practice: Try to use shortcuts whenever possible and don’t be afraid to make mistakes, especially when you are first learning or trying something new.

3. Get a Second Monitor

Consider using a second monitor if you constantly switch between windows or applications. It can significantly increase the amount of screen real estate available, allowing users to work on multiple tasks simultaneously, view various applications at once, and reduce the need for window switching. By extending the desktop, organizing applications, multi-tasking and customizing display settings, you can make the most of your second monitor and get more done in less time.

4. Turn Off Pop-up Notifications

Pop-up notifications can be a significant distraction when working on a computer and disrupt productivity and focus. Fortunately, turning off pop-up notifications in most operating systems and applications is relatively easy. If turning off all notifications isn’t an option, consider prioritizing notifications so that your device only displays essential ones. For example, you could configure emails to only display alerts when receiving messages from specific contacts or keywords.

5. Take Breaks

While it may seem counterintuitive, taking breaks helps boost your productivity. Regular breaks can prevent burnout and improve your focus when you return to work. Breaks are an excellent time to engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga. These practices can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.