Congratulations! You’ve just bought a brand new MacBook. You’re not just a computer, you’re part of a user-friendly ecosystem. But your MacBook is much more than meets the eye. Discover these features in the first 30 days to get the most out of your device. Let’s get started!
1. Dock: Make Things Faster
The Dock is a great way to quickly access your favorite apps. However, many users use the Dock by default and don't realize its customization potential. You can drag and drop apps to customize the Dock and remove unnecessary ones.
You can also change its size, position, and appearance in System Settings > Dock & Menu Bar . When you configure your Dock correctly, you can use your MacBook much faster and more efficiently.
2. Hot Corners: Add Function to Your Corners
The corners of your MacBook actually contain hidden shortcuts. This feature, called Hot Corners , lets you assign different functions to the four corners of your screen. For example, you can add a function to show the desktop in the bottom left corner, and a function to activate the screen saver in the top right corner.
To enable this feature, go to System Settings > Desktop & Screen Saver > Hot Corners . Once you get the hang of it, you'll love this simple yet effective feature.
3. Keyboard Shortcuts: Accelerate Your Speed
The MacBook keyboard isn’t just for typing; it also offers a number of shortcuts that speed up your workflow. For example, you can quickly switch between open apps with Command + Tab . Close an open window with Command + W , and instantly activate the address bar in Safari with Command + L.
Think about the actions you use most on your MacBook and make these shortcuts a habit. This will help you complete your daily tasks much faster.
4. Take Screenshots and Edit Instantly
Taking screenshots on a MacBook is incredibly easy, but many users don’t know the ins and outs of this feature. You can take a screenshot of a specific part of the screen with Command + Shift + 4. You can even record your screen with Command + Shift + 5 .
Even better, you can edit the screenshot right after you take it. Use instant editing tools to add text, highlight a specific area, or crop a screenshot. This feature is especially essential for professional users.
Your MacBook keyboard stands out with its stylish design and durability. However, spills or dust during daily use can affect the performance of your keyboard. To prevent this, it's a great idea to use a clear keyboard protector. The Clear Keyboard Protector for MacBook Pro/Air protects your keyboard without obstructing the visibility of the keys.
5. Spotlight's Advanced Capabilities
Spotlight is a familiar tool to MacBook users, but it goes far beyond simple searches. For example, you can check world clocks, get movie recommendations, or get the weather forecast. You can also perform unit conversions, like "23 USD to EUR."
Learning to use Spotlight more efficiently can save you a lot of time in your daily work. This tool acts not only as a search engine but also as an assistant.
6. Desktop Spaces and Mission Control
Things can get confusing when you have multiple apps open on your screen. That's where Mission Control comes in. Swipe up on the trackpad with three fingers to see all your open windows in an organized manner.
You can use desktop spaces to create an even more effective workspace. For example, you can dedicate one desktop to just your work files and another to your personal applications. This helps you create a clearer separation between work and personal life.
7. Universal Clipboard: Copy-Paste Without Borders
A feature that everyone in the Apple ecosystem will love: Universal Clipboard . You can copy text or an image from your MacBook and paste it to your iPhone or iPad. For example, while reading an article on your MacBook, you can copy an interesting paragraph and paste it directly into the messaging app on your iPhone.
This feature makes switching between devices incredibly easy. Universal Clipboard is another great example of how Apple devices work together perfectly.
8. Terminal: Power Users' Toy
Terminal is an incredible tool for advanced users. It may seem a bit complicated at first glance, but once you learn a few basic commands, it can make your life easier. For example, you can use Terminal to quickly delete a file or folder, or to view hidden system files.
This tool is indispensable for users who want to take deeper control of their device. However, it is important to be careful when using Terminal, as one wrong command can unintentionally affect your system.
The MacBook's Retina display stands out for its clarity and vibrant colors. However, it can be susceptible to scratches. That's where a product like the Shock Absorbing Screen Protector for MacBook can protect your screen from scratches while also preventing image quality from deteriorating over long periods of use.
9. Split View: Multitasking Expert
If you work in multiple apps, Split View is for you. It lets you split your screen in half and use two apps side by side at the same time. For example, you can check your emails on one side while working on a document on the other.
To enable Split View, click and hold the green button in the upper left corner of the window, then select a section of the screen. You'll notice how useful this feature is when you use it to multitask.
10. Secret Screen Timer: An Unknown Treasure
Did you know that your MacBook has a built-in timer? You can use the "pmset sleepnow" command in Terminal to automatically turn off your screen after a certain amount of time. This is useful for reminders to rest after a long day of work.
This feature gives you more control and optimizes your study habits. It is a hidden but extremely effective tool.
11. Mission Control: All Your Windows in One Place
When you have multiple apps open on your MacBook, it can sometimes be difficult to switch between them. That's where Mission Control comes in. You can see all open windows at once by pressing the F3 key or swiping up with three fingers on the trackpad.
This feature is a great advantage especially when multitasking. You can also easily manage the clutter on your desktop.
12. AirDrop: Quick Solution for File Transfer
Want to share a photo, video or document from your MacBook? No need to search for cables or send emails! AirDrop lets you transfer your files to other Apple devices in seconds. This feature is especially convenient for iPhone and iPad users.
You can see nearby Apple devices by opening the "AirDrop" tab in Finder. AirDrop not only provides speed but also eliminates cable clutter.
13. Night Shift and True Tone: Your Eye Friend
If you spend long hours in front of the screen, Night Shift and True Tone features are indispensable for your eye health. Night Shift prevents eye fatigue when working at night by reducing the amount of blue light. True Tone adjusts the screen colors according to the ambient light and provides a natural image.
To enable these features, go to System Settings > Displays . Be sure to use these settings to ensure a MacBook experience that’s easy on your eyes.
14. Trackpad Gestures: Control Your MacBook with Touch
Your MacBook's trackpad works wonders with your finger movements. Swipe up with two fingers to switch between windows, and access Mission Control with three fingers. The trackpad also supports actions like right-clicking and zooming.
For more customization, you can check out System Settings > Trackpad . It may seem complicated at first, but after a few days, you'll get used to these gestures and realize you don't need a mouse anymore.
15. Spotlight: The Super Detective on Your Computer
Spotlight is one of the most powerful tools on your MacBook. It can find not just files, but also apps, emails, notes, and even internet information in seconds. You can open Spotlight by pressing Command + Space . For example, typing "October report" will instantly bring up all the relevant documents on your computer.
Spotlight can also be used to do simple math or convert currency. For example, type "100 USD to TRY" and you'll instantly see the current conversion rate. This tool is great for speed and efficiency.
16. Touch ID: Practice Your Security
Touch ID lets you unlock your MacBook with just your fingerprint. You can log in in seconds without having to type a password. You can also use this feature to make payments when shopping online. For example, when you make a purchase with Apple Pay, Touch ID is enough to verify your payment.
To set up Touch ID, you can add your fingerprint by going to System Settings > Touch ID . This technology provides not only practicality but also a high level of security.
17. Battery Health: How to Use Your MacBook for Many Years
Your MacBook’s battery is designed to last a long time. But to maintain that longevity, you should check your battery health regularly. You can view battery health and power-saving settings in System Settings > Battery .
To preserve battery health, avoid keeping your device charged to 100% all the time. Charging between 20% and 80% will extend battery life and maintain your device's performance.
