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Using Your Windows Computer - Part 2
Essential Daily Tasks - Spring 2025
Introduction
Welcome to Part 2 of Using Your Windows Computer! In this session, we'll explore the essential tools you'll use every day. Think of this as learning to use your digital workplace effectively.
File Explorer: Your Digital Filing Cabinet
File Explorer is like a filing cabinet for your computer. Understanding how it works will help you keep your digital life organized.
Key Areas of File Explorer
Quick Access
Your frequently used folders
Pin important folders here for easy access
Automatically updates based on your usage
This PC
Shows all storage devices on your computer:
Local Disk (C:) - Your main storage
External drives
DVD drive (if you have one)
Cloud Services
OneDrive
Other cloud storage you've connected
Syncs files across devices
Common Folders
Documents: For text files, spreadsheets, etc.
Pictures: For photos and images
Downloads: Files you've downloaded from the internet
Windows 10 vs Windows 11 Differences
While both versions work similarly, you'll notice these differences:
Windows 11 has a more modern look
Navigation buttons are slightly different
Menu layouts have been updated
File Management Skills
Creating New Folders
Select New at the top of the screen
Select "New" → "Folder"
Type the folder name
Press Enter
Moving and Copying Files
To Move: Drag and drop to new location
Or use right-click → Copy/Paste
Tips for Success:
Create clear folder names
Use folders to group related items
Pin important folders to Quick Access
Suggestion: Create a folder for your class materials
Internet and Microsoft Edge
Edge is your window to the internet, coming built-in with Windows 10 and 11.
Essential Edge Features
Address Bar
Type web addresses or search terms
Shows security information
Access site settings
Helpful Tools
Immersive Reader: Makes pages easier to read
Click the book icon in the address bar
Can read text aloud
Adjusts text size and layout
Managing Favorites
Click the star in the address bar to save a site
Access saved sites from the star icon in the toolbar
Organize favorites into folders
Try This: Save three useful websites as favorites
Email and Calendar
Using the Mail App
The Mail app helps you manage all your email accounts in one place.
Setting Up Email
Open Mail app
Click "Add Account"
Choose account type
Follow setup instructions
Essential Email Skills
Create new message: Click "+" icon
Reply: Click reply arrow
Create folders: Right-click inbox → "New Folder"
Settings: Click gear icon
Calendar Features
The Calendar app helps organize your schedule.
Working with Events
Add event: Click any time slot
Set reminder: Choose when to be notified
Change views: Day, Week, or Month
Share calendars with others
Practice Activity: Create a calendar event for next week's class
Working with Photos
Photos App Features
Viewing Photos
Gallery view shows all photos
Click any photo to enlarge
Use arrow keys to browse
Essential Tools
Edit: Basic photo adjustments
Share: Send to others
Information: Photo details
Favorite: Mark important photos
Google Photos Integration
Auto-upload from phone
Access photos anywhere
Free storage (with limits)
Tip: Back up important photos regularly
Practice Exercises
Try these activities to build your skills:
File Management
Create a folder structure for your documents
Move files between folders
Pin a folder to Quick Access
Edge Browser
Save three websites as favorites
Try Immersive Reader
Clear browsing history
Email and Calendar
Send an email with an attachment
Create a calendar event
Set up email folders
Photos
Import photos from your phone
Edit a photo
Create an album
Next Session Preview
We'll cover:
Customizing Windows
Security features
Accessibility options
Personal settings