20 Google Search tricks, hidden utilities, games and freebies
Remember when talking to yourself would bring weird looks? In the era of earbuds, it’s totally normal. Using your voice can make an annoying task like writing up a letter or outline a lot easier. Try these dictation tricks in Microsoft Word or Google Docs that make it much better.
When it comes to Google Search, you can get almost anything done if you know how to use the hidden tools. Check out these not-so-conventional ways to use Google beyond regular searches.
Useful utilities
Simple ways to get things done without downloading an extra app or finding the right website.
Currency conversions: Next time you’re eyeing a European something-or-other online, type “[price] euros to dollars” to get a quick conversion, like “55 euros to dollars.” The exchange rate updates in real time.
Quick definitions: Type “define [word]” to get its meaning. So handy.
How do you say …? Put in a word + “pronunciation.” Click the speaker icon to hear it (there’s a slow toggle if you need it). Hit the mic icon that says Practice to see if you’re on the right track.
Set a timer or alarm: Commands like “set timer for 20 minutes” or “set an alarm for 9 a.m.” give you an instant kitchen timer or alarm reminder to, say, give your cat its medicine. Just don’t close your laptop.
Translate text: Stumble upon a tasty-looking French recipe? Type or paste the text into Google Translate. It’s a lifesaver when traveling, too.
See numbers written as words: Uncertain about big numbers? Happens to the best of us. Type “953,116,070=english” and Google instantly tells you it’s “nine hundred fifty-three million one hundred sixteen thousand and seventy.”
Just for fun
I bet you’ll make a friend’s day passing along one of these.
Your phone tracks everywhere you’ve been – See (and delete) it
Google knows more about you than your best friends. That includes (if you have the correct settings enabled) where you go and even the pictures you take at that location.
You have to check out this map. It’s stunning to see your history laid out in one spot.
How to take full-page screenshots on your PC or Mac
Taking a screenshot on your iPhone is as easy as pressing two buttons. But what if you wanted to save an entire webpage to view it later? Here’s a trick to avoid taking dozens of screenshots.
Taking full-page screenshots on your computer is even easier. If you want to capture the entire screen, you can use quick keyboard shortcuts or built-in programs. We’ll show you precisely what to do.
Bad Windows default settings you should change today
Whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop, your devices come loaded with settings, apps and bloatware. They exist for many reasons: To give you a free tease of a paid program, to collect data or simply part of a deal with other companies.
Quick tip: Find out how much storage is remaining on your Mac or PC
Back in the day, hard drives had severely limited storage space. Now, we’re spoiled with multi-terabyte hard drives that can store endless movies and programs. While that’s super convenient, it can also make us a little complacent.
Our PC and laptop picks for remote workers and small businesses
If you’re looking for a new computer to work on, you will find yourself swimming in a sea of options. There are countless gadgets to choose from. Whether you want a tiny, simple laptop or a 2-in-1 that doubles as a tablet, you can find almost anything your heart desires.
5 ways to clear out the junk in your Windows 10 Start menu
Windows 10 is a handy tool, but it’s not optimized for your needs right out of the box. This software comes with many valuable tools, but it also comes pre-loaded with bloatware and annoying features that can get in the way of productivity.