Speed is the name of the game in computers. I get requests almost daily from clients who want me to increase memory or some other upgrade to speed up their system . Interestingly, when clients watch me work on their “slow” system , I’m often asked “How did you do that so fast”? It's important to realize that how you use your pc is very key to how well your pc works.

Well, I’m going to clue you in to a few secret rules of system performance . At first you may not like the answer, but if you trust me and follow through you’ll be stunned at how “fast” your old system can go. Follow these rules, break a few bad habits and your personal productivity and enjoyment will increase.

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Rule #1 - The slowest moving part of your system system isn’t your system .
With some exceptions, most system components move at a rate of performance that is almost inconceivable to humans. If your system was a car, you’d be able to travel faster than most airplanes. If your car could travel as fast as an airplane, could you drive it that fast? Not on todays roads! Your system will move only as fast as you can move it. The fastest and easiest way to increase your computers performance is to increase your operating performance . In most cases, the computer can easily keep up. Doubling your performance is easier than you think.

Rule #2 Mice are slow.
This may be a bitter pill to take, but your mouse is slowing you down, holding you back and keeping you from excelling. He’s not your friend. While mice are necessary for some things most Windows functions can be done completely rodent-free.

Rule #3 The secret to speed is in the keys.
I have a question for you - how long does it take to get to Tucson? Why does it take that long? The answer is - because you have to travel. How long would it take if you didn’t have to travel? That’s right, almost no time at all. When you use your mouse, it has to travel across your screen. That takes time and effort. Most things can be done by tapping 1 or 2 keys on the computer keyboard - and that is FAST.

Here’s an example - to open Solitaire with the mouse, you have to move around the screen and click [Start] then Programs, Accessories, Games, Solitaire. That takes time. CTRL+ESC Activates the Start Button Then just tap the first letter of each menu item in order. For solitaire tap P, A, G, S. Viola!

Want to close any windows program? Instead of mousing over to that “X” in the corner, try holding down the ALT key (next to CTRL) and tapping the F4 key. ALT+F4 closes almost every computer program - including Windows!

Keyboard shortcuts take a little time to learn, but the improvement in speed is well worth it. Learn the computer keys and take control!

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