How to maximize the use of my Macbook

jelliclekyla · 03-20-2008, 03:47 PM

I had my Macbook for 9 months now. I'm not exactly a techie or computer geek and I have only used my laptop for the basics - internet, photo storage, school works (typing and presentations, I dont even have an Office for Mac, i only use Neo), amateur video-editing, music download and the works. Anyway, i know a Mac has so much function than that. so, can anyone please help me out how can I best maximize or utilize my Mac? I'm addicted to Yahoo games such as diner dash but I cant play it on my Mac, I also like to dabble in photoshop-but its so expensive (Actually, i tried installing a pirated one but I couldn't) Also, what other accessories that are necessary can you suggest. So far, i only have a wireless mouse and a sleek-looking laptop bag.

Thanks!

**kaizersix** · 03-20-2008, 04:07 PM

yahoo games do work in macs. go to gamehouse or bigfish. they have games for macs.

there are also a lot of free alternatives to photoshop like gimp.

i would suggest making use of iDVD and iMovie. Create easy to do projects from all your photos, videos and songs.. a lot of tutorials are found on the apple site and around the net..

there are a great tips here too in PhilMUG. try browsing through the newbies and switchers section.

**oliver_mac** · 03-20-2008, 04:17 PM

from what i can see, you're a typical computer user and your use of macbook is normal.
i guess you just have to spend more time for you macbook.
search for some apple/os tips and tricks.
look for some very good open source /freeware for mac (gimp is very good photoshop replacement), i also like adium for ym and msn.
if you already have leopard installed, you would find the new dashboard interesting like it can open websites so you can have a quick view for news for example.
so many things to do, just spend time with it.
you can also download and play videos on you macbook and connect it on an LCD TV, use the macbook remote to make it like multimedia player, etc...

**PatrickGaerlan** · 03-20-2008, 05:54 PM

@jelliclekyla, have you checked out Apple's iLife video tutorials?

**machazel** · 03-21-2008, 01:24 PM

I have Diner Dash on my macbook...Lots of the games from bigfish and playfirst already have mac versions for their more popular games.

you can also check out this site for some free and popular mac softwares. enjoy!

**fcdiesta** · 03-21-2008, 01:46 PM

Like you, I'm also just a regular computer user, so I feel like I am not maximizing my Macbook at the moment. But given time, I'm sure I'll be finding the proper use for this machine. I just don't have the proper accessories and gadgets right now to max out my use of the iLife software, that's why I'm trying to save up for some cameras (DSLR and videocam), and maybe an iPod or two (who knows maybe an iPhone will fall into my hands).

Just hang on to the Mac. As for me, I know I'll never go back to Windows so...

**jaijin** · 07-01-2008, 09:59 PM

you into creating music? use garage band.

**macbro** · 07-02-2008, 04:36 PM

I second the iLife08 app. Great and easy to use

**Libra** · 07-09-2008, 09:33 PM

The iWork '08 is also a good investment if you're doing a lot of presentations and reports.

**bakokok** · 07-09-2008, 09:58 PM

Try using iWork '08. I haven't really tried using the applications on iWork but my boss told me that Keynote is a lot better than Powerpoint. As for your video editing, try installing Adobe Premier or Final Cut.