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13 Hidden MacBook Features to Try Today

13 Hidden MacBook Features to Try Today
Laptops

MacBooks offer a lot more than just a sleek exterior and sharp display. Some of its handy features are often overlooked, but once utilized can change the way users look at MacBooks and carry out daily tasks. Certain features can enhance users’ workflows, streamline tasks, and help them unlock new levels of efficiency. So, here are a few hidden features one should know to get the most out of their MacBook:

1. Spotlight Search
Spotlight Search goes beyond the basic file search function. It allows users to quickly launch applications, perform calculations, and even find information from the web. By pressing Command + Spacebar, users can access Spotlight to look for relevant information and applications. In addition to its search capabilities, Spotlight can perform currency conversions, provide weather updates, and offer word definitions.

2. Multi-touch gestures
The MacBook touchpad supports an array of gestures, providing an intuitive means to interact with the laptop interface. For instance, a three-finger swipe upward shows all open applications in Mission Control, while a four-finger swipe to the left or right allows users to switch between desktops seamlessly. Familiarizing oneself with these gestures can significantly enhance navigation speed and efficiency.

3. Customizable trackpad options
By clicking on System Preferences > Trackpad or Mouse > More Gestures, one can find a plethora of customization options. Users can fine-tune the sensitivity, adjust the click pressure, and even enable tap-to-click for a personalized experience. These customizations ensure the trackpad responds precisely to individual preferences, optimizing comfort and usability.

4. Preview
Preview is another versatile tool that is more than just a PDF viewer. It enables users to annotate, edit, and even combine PDFs as well as add text, shapes, and signatures, and reorganize pages effortlessly. Additionally, Preview can handle various image formats other than PDF, making it an indispensable companion for document management.

5. Text replacement
Text Replacement can be a game-changer for users. In Keyboard settings, one can find this feature, which allows users to create custom shortcuts for longer phrases or even complex symbols. For example, setting an abbreviation like “omw” to expand into “On my way” can save considerable typing time in the long run.

6. Dictation
MacBooks are equipped with a robust built-in dictation feature. By pressing the “Function” key (or a customizable shortcut), users can dictate text on any application. This is particularly useful for hands-free typing or for those who prefer speaking over typing.

7. Time Machine
While not entirely hidden, Time Machine is one of the features that remain underutilized by Mac users. This is a built-in backup solution that ensures users never lose their important files. By connecting an external drive, users can set up automated backups that safeguard their data against unexpected events.

8. Emoji and special characters
Quick access to emojis and special characters can add flair to communications. Pressing Control + Command + Spacebar opens an emoji keyboard, while Option + Shift + (Character) reveals various special characters. This is a time-saving feature for those who frequently use symbols and emojis in their communication.

9. Terminal commands
For users comfortable with the command line, the Terminal offers a plethora of powerful tools and customization options. One can find Terminal using Spotlight. From modifying system behaviors to advanced troubleshooting, the Terminal provides unprecedented control over the MacBook’s operating system.

10. Gestures for desktop management
In addition to application gestures, MacBook trackpads also offer desktop management gestures. For instance, spreading four fingers on the trackpad opens Exposé, displaying all open windows for easy selection. This can greatly enhance efficiency when working with multiple applications simultaneously.

11. Quick desktop cleanup using Stacks
For users with too many files on their desktops, Stacks is a hidden gem. By right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “Use Stacks,” the system automatically organizes files into neat stacks based on file type. This keeps the desktop clutter-free and makes finding files a breeze.

12. Screenshots and annotations
The screenshot tool on MacBooks offers more than meets the eye. Pressing “Command + Shift + 5” gives users access to a suite of screenshot and screen recording options. Additionally, the Markup tool provides powerful annotation capabilities, allowing users to add text, shapes, and even their signature to screenshots.

13. Quick Look
In Finder, users can select a file and press the spacebar to activate Quick Look. This provides an instant preview of the file’s contents without the need to open an application. It is a time-saving feature for quickly checking documents, images, and even audio or video files.

Finding the best deals
With the Black Friday sale just around the corner, one can look for deals on MacBooks and other Apple products if they are considering an upgrade. In addition to MacBooks, Mac Mini with M2 Pro and Mac Pro with M2 Ultra may be popular picks this year. Here, it is important to look at last year’s Black Friday deals and early bird discounts to understand what one can expect:

– The 14-inch MacBook Pro carried a $200 discount last Black Friday at B&H Photo.
– The 16-inch MacBook Pro carried a $400 discount last year on Amazon.
– Recently, the 15.3-inch MacBook Air (M2) with 256 GB storage was on sale, offering buyers up to 19% savings on their purchase
– For those looking for Mac desktops, Costco had earlier offered the Mac Mini M1 chip at a $130 discount. The Mac Mini came with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD.
– Additionally, early-bird deals worth considering are B&H Photo’s $70 and $100 discounts on the M2 Mac mini and Mac Mini with M2 Pro, respectively.
– One can look up Best Buy deals on Mac Studio with M2 Ultra and M2 Max and save $200 on their purchase depending on the availability.

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Pregnancy symptoms one should know about
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Pregnancy symptoms one should know about

Pregnancy is a term that refers to the period during which the development of a fetus takes place inside a woman’s womb. Once the pregnancy stage passes successfully, the woman gives birth to a child. There are certain signs or symptoms, which indicate that a woman is pregnant. While many may be common knowledge like morning sickness, others may not. Here are some of the most important pregnancy symptoms you should know about. Fatigue Fatigue, or feeling tired, is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms. During the early stages of pregnancy, the progesterone level increases sharply. In high quantities, progesterone can put a person to sleep immediately. The blood sugar level drops considerably and the rate of production of blood increases. All this consumes a lot of energy and makes you feel weak. Swollen breasts Swelling in the breasts is one of the earliest pregnancy symptoms. Around two weeks after a woman gets pregnant, her body goes through hormonal changes that contribute towards making the breasts tender or swollen. When you feel any such abnormalities, you must consult a doctor. Bleeding When you suffer from some bleeding in the vagina, there is a chance that you could be pregnant. This is called implantation bleeding. It takes place when a fertilized egg gets attached to the outer covering of the uterus. This usually happens between ten to fourteen days post the fertilization process. The blood has a lighter shade to it. Nausea Nausea, also known as morning sickness, is one of the earliest observed pregnancy symptoms. A woman might feel a sense of nausea around two weeks after the first stage of conception. One of the main causes behind nausea is an increase in the level of estrogen. Estrogen causes the stomach to empty itself at a slow pace, which, in turn, leads to nausea.
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Sexual conditions – Causes, risk factors, and treatment
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Sexual conditions – Causes, risk factors, and treatment

A sexual condition is the inability to have a satisfactory sexual relationship with a partner. When hormones and neurological pathways do not work in sync, sexual desire could be hampered. This can affect the quality of life and even raise some serious concerns over the patient’s medical and mental well-being. If a man faces any kind of issue or hindrance during sexual activity, it indicates a sexual condition. It should be taken seriously and evaluated accordingly. What causes sexual conditions in men? Physiological causes If you are suffering from a high amount of stress or anxiety because of work or any other reason, it will have an adverse effect on your sex life. A discord in the relationship with your partner can also lead to a sexual disorder. Sometimes, you may also fail to be aroused because of body image issues or being conscious or nervous about your performance. Other physiological reasons include suffering from depression and fatigue. Physical causes Different kinds of medical conditions affect your sexual health. Some of these conditions are the heart and vascular diseases, hormonal imbalance, drug abuse, and neurological disorders. Other physical causes include alcoholism, substance abuse, testosterone deficiency, hyperthyroidism, and taking certain medications like anti-androgens or opioid analgesics. What are the risk factors of a low sex drive in men? The main factors that contribute to a diminished sex drive or sexual desire in men are: Smoking Malnourishment Aging, as testosterone levels drop as you grow old Illegal substance consumption Medications for prostate cancer, pain, and benign prostatic hyperplasia If you notice any of these risk factors in your life, we recommend speaking to a doctor immediately. How do you treat sexual conditions? Consult a doctor Visit a doctor and share with him details of the sexual condition you are facing. We understand that you may find it difficult or feel conscious about talking about their lack of sexual desire or inability to initiate a sexual relation.
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Home remedies and treatment options for mouth and teeth problems

Home remedies and treatment options for mouth and teeth problems

The human body has many essential body parts, and one of the most crucial parts of the body is the mouth. It entails a lot of different functions such as: Take in food as well as drinks Breathe in the air around It helps with kick-starting the process of digestion as the teeth chew the food you eat Helps in speaking and singing Since there are many different mouth and teeth problems, here are some of the most common home remedies you can adopt to cure them. Home remedies for toothache There are many home remedies that you can adopt to get rid of toothache: Saltwater rinse To use a saltwater rinse, we recommend you mix half a teaspoon of salt into a warm water glass and use it as mouthwash regularly. Cold compress Applying a cold compress to the area of a toothache can help in reducing the pain. When you apply a cold compress, the blood vessels of that particular area are constricted. Hence, it is highly advisable to go for it. Hydrogen peroxide rinse A hydrogen peroxide rinse also helps in relieving pain as well as inflammation. It not only kills bacteria but also reduces plaque and then starts healing bleeding gums. Garlic Garlic has been used for medicinal properties since time immemorial. It not only kills harmful bacteria but can also help in relieving pain. To use this remedy, you crush a garlic clove and then use it to create a paste to the affected area. Peppermint tea bags Peppermint tea can be used for numbing pain and then for soothing sensitive gums. To do this particular, allow an old used tea bag to cool down before you apply it to the affected area. Some other remedies that you can use as remedies include the following:
4 tips to manage the symptoms of menopause

4 tips to manage the symptoms of menopause

Menopause is diagnosed when a woman doesn’t menstruate for 12 months at a stretch, and it is the end of a woman’s fertility and menstrual cycles. Natural menopause occurs when the ovaries start showing signs of reduced production of the hormones progesterone and estrogen. On the other hand, induced menopause is often a result of the surgical removal of the ovaries to treat a medical condition or the ovaries getting damaged due to the consumption of certain medications or exposure to harmful radiation. Menopause can lead to pain and discomfort, along with several other symptoms, but following some simple tips can help women reduce the discomfort and pain associated with menopause: Maintain a stable weight Women tend to gain weight during menopause due to the hormonal changes that their bodies undergo, and it can also happen due to aging, genetics, or lifestyle choices. Weight gain or the accumulating fat content in the body makes women susceptible to developing heart diseases and other conditions like diabetes. The increased weight also aggravates the symptoms of menopause and increases the risk of joint conditions like osteoporosis. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce the symptoms and protects the body against several harmful diseases. Avoid the consumption of trigger foods Trigger foods are the foods that cause the urge to eat more and can lead to an increase in the symptoms of menopause. These include mood swings, hot flashes, and night sweats. The most common trigger foods include alcoholic beverages, caffeinated drinks, junk food, fried food, and baked goods like brownies, donuts, pastry, and cookies. Also, women need to be mentally aware of the foods that are worsening their symptoms and stay away from them. Follow a regular workout schedule Regular exercise is a must among women during the onset of menopause to help manage the symptoms effectively.
Foods one should eat to maintain kidneys and liver health

Foods one should eat to maintain kidneys and liver health

The human body has a system of multiple inter-related processes. The kidneys and liver are crucial organs, as these cleanse your body of toxins. Any disorder or infection in these organs may interfere with the other bodily processes. One needs to be aware of certain remedies and foods that help keep these organs in peak shape. For the kidney Here are three home remedies and foods that may be beneficial to treat kidney infections: Drink water and cranberry juice If one wants relief from kidney infections, it is vital to flush out harmful bacteria. Drinking six to eight glasses of water daily is helpful. Additionally, malic, quinic, and citric acids found in cranberry juice are also beneficial to relieve infections in the urinary tract. Apply warm and moist heat To soothe irritated nerves and reduce pain, using a warm water bottle or heating pad to the affected areas is beneficial. One must cover the heated bottle with a cloth to avoid burns. Apply the heat compress for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink green tea Green tea extract is known to have an antibacterial effect on bacterial strains that cause urinary tract infections. Consuming green tea may be beneficial to alleviate the discomfort caused due to kidney infections. While these remedies may be beneficial, it is essential to seek expert guidance to help relieve pain due to severe symptoms. Moreover, giving the body adequate rest is also helpful and results in relief from the discomfort. For the liver Fatty liver disease may be caused due to excess alcohol consumption. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may occur if someone is obese or suffers from diabetes, high blood pressure, or cholesterol. Lifestyle and diet changes are essential to seek relief from this condition. Here are three home treatments and foods that may be beneficial for the liver:
Improving your mental health at home

Improving your mental health at home

While your physical well-being is important, keeping your mind healthy is a must. If you are suffering from anxiety, stress, or any other brain disorder, it will reflect in your physical health too. People who are suffering from poor mental health exhibit symptoms like hypertension, an abnormal increase in the rate of the heartbeat, or a sharp pain in the chest. You must make an effort to enhance your mental health on a daily basis. Home activities for improving mental health Exercise Apart from keeping your body fit, exercise helps in improving your mental health too. It is a very effective way to let go of nervousness and all the anxiety that has accumulated in your body as a bundle of negative energy. You do not have to indulge in rigorous exercise. Doing some simple exercises at home should work as a good stress-buster. Yoga, pilates, cycling, or swimming, pick an exercise of your choice and make it a point to do a bit of it every day. The trick lies in being regular and disciplined with whatever you choose to do. Meditation Most people lead such busy lives that they find it difficult to even stop for a moment to catch their breath. The kind of lifestyle we lead does not give us enough time to pause, look within, and introspect. Thus, it is very important to carve out some time from your busy schedule and meditate for a while every day. It is, perhaps, the most important relaxation technique known to mankind and one which helps you cleanse your mind off all the accumulating stress, anxiety, and other forms of negativity. Meditation is also recommended for people who are suffering from mood swings. Start writing Writing is a great way to reduce anxiety and stress. You might not think yourself to be very good with words, but every human being feels the need to express himself or herself in one way or the other.
Multiple sclerosis – what are the treatment options

Multiple sclerosis – what are the treatment options

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a kind of condition in which the immune system does not respond as it should. It gets directed against the working of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS entails optic nerves, spinal cord, and the brain. It is meant to work in tandem with the immune system. However, when MS occurs, it fails to do so. Let’s take a look at some of the treatment options for multiple sclerosis. Treatment for multiple sclerosis Depending on the type, here are the common treatments for multiple sclerosis:   There is no particular cause for multiple sclerosis. As a result, the treatment focuses on recovering fast after an attack rather than getting to the root. Here are the common measures:  Corticosteroids, such as intravenous methylprednisolone and oral prednisone Plasmapheresis   Modifying progress To deal with primary progressive multiple sclerosis, ocrelizumab is usually recommended. It is the only FDA-approved disease-modifying therapy available. For particular types of multiple sclerosis, where it keeps recurring, the doctor may use different treatments, depending on the intensity of the condition. Some of the common treatments for these include:  Beta interferons Glatiramer acetate Fingolimod Dimethyl Fumarate Teriflunomide Siponimod Some of the other treatments for the signs and symptoms of MS include:  Physical therapy Muscle relaxants Medicines used to reduce tiredness Medicines to help increase walking speed Home remedies for multiple sclerosis There are plenty of other treatments available to help relieve the symptoms and deal with problems related to multiple sclerosis. Consume the following: Vitamin A Vitamin A has proven to show results in delaying macular degeneration associated with age. It also consists of antioxidants, which can be helpful people with multiple sclerosis.  Vitamin B-1 Vitamin B-1 is also known as thiamin. It helps in the proper functioning of the brain and is also essential for nerve, muscle, heart function, and metabolism.
Treatment options and home remedies for gout

Treatment options and home remedies for gout

Uric acid crystals result in gout. It is an inflammatory condition that usually affects men as a type of arthritis. It causes severe joint pain around the knees, feet, and ankles. However, there are certain measures that one can take for gout treatment. We will discuss these as well as home remedies in this article. Types of medications Some medicines may be prescribed to the patient on a regular basis; these can help to alleviate the symptoms of this condition: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications These medications are known to reduce the duration of the attack. If one takes them within the first twenty-four hours, then it really helps. They are usually prescribed to reduce the inflammation and relieve the pain. Corticosteroids These types of medications are usually administered orally or may even be injected into the body. They not only help in the reduction of the swelling but can also combat inflammation. In some cases, the doctor may also inject a hormone known as an adrenocorticotropic hormone to help the body produce corticosteroids naturally. The doctor may also give a combination of both at different times to help with alleviating the symptoms. Colchicine Colchicine is derived from a plant, which has been used to reduce the symptoms of gout for over 2,000 years. It helps to reduce pain and swelling. However, this may come with a specific side effect such as abdominal cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. Reducing uric acid levels The most ideal way to treat gout is by controlling uric acid levels in the body. Once they are controlled, the chances of a gout attack reduce considerably. The following medications can be consumed for reducing uric acid levels: Probenecid Allopurinol Lesinurad Febuxostat Pegloticase In most cases, the doctor will wait until the most recent gout attack before he goes on to prescribe a dosage of the aforementioned medications.

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