If you have switched from Windows to MacOS and are using a MacBook for the first time, you need to pay attention to some issues. Otherwise, the MacBook you bought with great enthusiasm will slow down over time and drive you crazy. The 5 common mistakes on MacBooks are usually overlooked points. However, this situation reveals a lot of unnecessary data, slowdown and heating problems over time.
So, how can you use your MacBook with its first-day performance? In this article, we will look at the solutions that will make your Mac work like a beast and the mistakes you should avoid!
What are the Most Common Errors on Mac?
Users sometimes make a small mistake because Mac is very solid, very powerful and stable. "MacBook is a very good device and does not break easily." Of course, this judgment can be considered partially true. However, like every electronic device, it requires good care and protection.
If you do not protect your Mac and do not take good care of it, problems such as overheating, slowing down, work warnings, etc. may occur. In order to protect the device you have paid thousands of liras for, for many years, you must pay attention to some points.
1-) Installing Antivirus Programs
You excitedly unboxed your Mac and of course, your priority is to protect your Mac. You immediately started researching to install an antivirus program. At this point, a voice echoes in your ear, “Antivirus programs are unnecessary for MacBooks.” So, why?
One of the biggest reasons why Apple is preferred today is undoubtedly its high security. For this reason, MacOs includes XProtect, which means that you do not need a second antivirus program. To protect against malware and to keep your data safe, you should not install third-party antivirus programs.
Third-party antivirus programs can often pose a threat in and of themselves. They also access every document and file on your Mac. Any files and data that are accessed can be used by malware.
In summary, if you are going to buy a MacBook for the first time or if you are using a MacBook for the first time, you do not need to search for an antivirus for a long time.
2-) Not Using TrackPad Gestures and Shortcuts
If you are used to using a classic mouse, using the MacBook TrackPad may seem quite difficult and challenging at first. Almost every MacBook user encounters this situation. However, once you get used to using the TrackPad, you may regret the days you spent wasting time with the mouse!
To speed up your workflow and get the most out of your Mac, the TrackPad and shortcuts are your best bet. Plus, macOS lets you customize TrackPad gestures.
· Tip: You can use System Settings → Trackpad to customize TrackPad gestures.
So, how can TrackPad gestures speed up your workflow? Let's take a look together:
· To open Mission Control: Three-finger swipe up
· To move forward or backward in the browser: Two finger swipe right or left
· To view open windows: Three-finger swipe down
· Zoom in on a text or image: Pinch or expand with two fingers
Keyboard shortcuts:
· CMD ( ⌘ ) + Space → Spotlight Search.
· CMD ( ⌘ ) + Tab → Switch between open applications.
· CMD ( ⌘ ) + Shift + 4 → Take a screenshot
3-) Charging MacBook Too Much
If you are constantly charging your device, your battery life will soon decrease noticeably. For example, a MacBook that is constantly charged will shut down in an average of 6-7 hours, while a MacBook that is regularly charged can be used for up to 8 hours.
One of the most common mistakes on Mac is to charge the battery to 100% or plug it in when it is 1%. If you want to extend the battery life of your device, you should plug it in when it is 20% and charge it to 80%.
· Enable "Optimize Battery Charging" from the System Settings → Battery menu.
MacBook battery replacement is a very costly process. Therefore, to use your MacBook for a long time, you should check the battery life regularly and avoid actions that will shorten the battery life.
4-) Not Shutting Down the MacBook
You finished your work, closed the MacBook screen and went to rest. You remembered that you did not close the MacBook while resting, but it was quite difficult to get up and shut down the Mac. Does this scenario sound familiar to you?
Many Mac users experience this scenario frequently. Due to the high stability of the Mac, we do not need to shut down the MacBook. Moreover, shutting it down and then turning it back on can be considered a waste of time. Although this situation is among the most common mistakes made on the Mac, it will not cause a serious problem in the short term. However, if this situation occurs frequently, it causes the Mac to slow down and increase RAM consumption.
If you find it difficult to turn your Mac on and off every day, you should make sure to turn it off at least once or twice a week. If you don't want to turn your Mac off:
· You can use Sleep Mode.
While in sleep mode, your Mac's system requirements continue to run in the background, such as completing backups or keeping your computer synchronized. It can also save energy by putting it in sleep mode.
5-) Not Protecting Your Mac Physically
The most common mistake people make with MacBooks is ignoring physical protection. You may not want to cover up the Mac’s sleek aluminum chassis and shiny Apple logo. But the truth is, the aluminum chassis will eventually get damaged from drops and bumps. And it can cost almost as much as a MacBook to repair or replace!
MacBook accessories include screen protectors, cases, keyboard protectors and keyboard & screen covers that will protect your Mac in many ways.
The MacBook screen protector filters UV rays and protects against scratches, while the MacBook keyboard protector prevents damage that may occur from liquids and crumbs spilled on the keyboard.
When it comes to the most common mistakes on Mac, it is necessary to mention the lack of regular cleaning. So, how to do regular cleaning? It is important to pay attention to the following steps when cleaning your Mac:
· Do not use abrasive chemicals (detergent, bleach, etc.) when cleaning the MacBook keyboard and screen.
· Clean the screen with a microfiber cloth,
· Clean the fan outlets and keyboard with an external air cleaner,
· Clean the screen with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have mentioned the most common mistakes on Mac. We also recommend that you do not ignore many factors such as keeping all tabs open, using the MacBook on a soft surface (bed, couch, etc.) and disabling automatic backup. Frequent mistakes can cause the Mac to overheat and run very slowly.
1. My MacBook is getting very hot, what should I do?
It is normal for a MacBook to get warm during intensive programs or in extremely hot weather. However, overheating is usually caused by the fan vents being blocked. You can clean the fan vents with an external air freshener.
2. How to clean a MacBook?
Start by turning off your computer and unplugging it. Clean the screen and outer case with a damp, lint-free microfiber cloth. Use a soft brush for the spaces between the keys on the keyboard. Do not apply liquid directly to the Mac and do not over-wet the cloth.
3. Why is my MacBook slowing down?
Background applications, full storage space, and full fan vents can all cause your Mac to run slowly. Clean up storage space, uninstall unnecessary applications, and don't forget to clean the fan vents.
Also read: If Your MacBook's Fan Is Working, You're Doing One of These 5 Things Wrong
