Pinning Applications and File and Desktop Gadgets

Windows 8 is the most current operating system for Microsoft computers; however most people are still using Windows 7 or something earlier. This week we are going to explore 3 tips that are available in Windows 7 and 8.

• Pinning applications
• Pinning files
•  Gadgets

Most of us use the same 3 or 4 applications over and over again during our day. One of the ones I use frequently is Outlook. Instead of having to go to the Start menu or find the shortcut icon on my desktop every time I want to launch the application, there is an easier way—it’s called pinning the application to the taskbar. The taskbar is the long strip that runs along the bottom of your desktop (the location may be changed). Watch my video on how to pin Outlook to the taskbar so you can easily access it.

Along the same topic is pinning files. I have a budget worksheet that I use often in Excel. Now that I have my Excel icon pinned to the taskbar, it makes launching Excel very swift. Let’s take it a step further by pinning the budget to Excel so it open quickly. Watch to learn more about pinning files to an application.

Gadgets were introduced in Windows 7, and I really like them. They are similar to mini apps that you would add to your IPhone to make it more customized. Let’s assume I work with someone in Beijing and I want a clock to appear on my desktop that shows the current time for Beijing so I don’t try to call my colleague in the middle of the night. Watch to learn how to add the clock gadget to your desktop.