Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Use This Shortcut to Hide Your Browsing

Have you ever wondered how to browse the web without leaving a trace? 

Have you ever needed to log into multiple accounts at once? 

Or maybe you just want to surprise someone with a gift without spoiling the surprise through your browser history. 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Open a new browser session in Incognito (Chrome), InPrivate (Edge) or Private (Safari) mode with this keyboard shortcut: Control + Shift + N (Windows) and Command + Shift + N (Mac)

Here's how to do it.
  • Open your favorite browser such as  Google ChromeMicrosoft Edge or Apple Safari.
  • Hold down the Ctrl and Shift keys on your keyboard, then press N
    • For Mac, hold Command + Shift + N keys.
  • You’ve just opened an Incognito or InPrivate browser session.

Incognito mode, also known as private browsing, is a feature in most web browsers that allows you to browse the internet without saving your browsing history, cookies, or temporary files. 

This means that once you close the incognito window, your activity on those websites won't be tracked by your browser or saved for future reference.

Using Incognito mode has several benefits including that your browsing history, cookies, and site data, and information entered in forms are not stored on your device.

You can also log into multiple accounts on the same website simultaneously.

Chrome Incognito Mode

However, it’s important to note that your activity might still be visible to the websites you visit, your employer or school, and your internet service provider.

Adding a reputable VPN offers additional privacy protection.

That's it.

Enjoy!

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE


OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life

#Chrome #Edge #Safari #Google #Microsoft #Apple #TechTips #BrowserShortcuts #IncognitoMode #Privacy #InternetPrivacy #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Monday, December 18, 2023

How to Sign Your Name in Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word
Have you ever found yourself needing to sign a document in Microsoft Word but didn’t know how? 

Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to do it digitally? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Add your signature to any Word document.


OneCoolTip - BackToWorkMonday


There are several techniques to do this.

Here's how to do it.

Drawing Your Name
  • Open your Word document.
  • Click on the “Insert” tab in the toolbar.
  • Select “Shapes”, then choose the “Scribble” tool under “Lines”.
  • Use your mouse or touchpad to draw your signature.
  • Adjust the size and position of the signature as needed.

Microsoft Word - Insert Scribble

fig. 1 - Microsoft Word - Insert Scribble

Adding a digital signature to your Word documents has several benefits. 

It’s quick, easy, and saves you the hassle of printing, signing, and scanning the document. 

However, it might not be as legally binding as a handwritten signature in some jurisdictions. 

Always check the legal requirements in your area.

Microsoft Word - Add Signature Example

fig. 2 - Microsoft Word - Add Signature Example


Of course, your signature can look better if you use a touch screen or stylus to write your name.

Another technique is to add a digital image of your signature to your document.

Adding a Signature Image
  • Write your signature using a black pen on a white piece of paper.
  • Scan or take a photo of the image.
    • Crop as needed.
    • Save your signature image as a .JPG or .PNG file.
  • Copy and paste the image into Word or use the Insert, PictureThis Device command from Word to add your image to your document.

John Hancock Signature

fig. 3 - John Hancock Signature


This "scribble" approach and digital image are quick and easy solutions to adding your signature to documents and email.

But what if you need someone else to sign your document?   

We'll cover how to insert a signature line or add a digital service to your document in a future Cool Tip.

That's it.

Enjoy!



Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE
 
OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life

#Microsoft @Microsoft #Word #MicrosoftWord #DigitalSignature #TechTips #ProductivityHacks #BackToWorkMonday #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Sunday, December 17, 2023

Unleash the Power of Shared Tracking With iOS 17’s AirTag Sharing Feature

Apple AirTag
Remember that frantic dash around the house searching for your keys... again? 

Or the sinking feeling when your luggage doesn't appear on the carousel? 

We've told you about Apple's amazing AirTags before as a "must have" accessory.

But iOS17 has brought yet another great feature.

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use the new Air Tag sharing feature in iOS 17.

An Apple AirTag is a small, Bluetooth-enabled tracking device designed to help you find lost or misplaced items. 

It connects to your Apple device's Find My network, allowing you to see its location on a map, play a sound to locate it nearby, and even get directions to it.

Sharing an AirTag in iOS 17 adds a whole new layer of convenience and security to this already helpful tool.

Here's how to do it.
  • Open the Find My app on your iPhone.
  • Tap Items.
  • Select the AirTag you want to share.
  • Tap Share This AirTag.
  • Choose Add Person.
  • Select the contacts with whom you want to share it with. 
    • You can select up to 5 people.
  • Tap Send.

Share Apple AirTag

fig. 1 - Share Apple AirTag

  • Your chosen contact now has access to that AirTag's location on their Find My app. 
  • They can see its last known location on a map, receive notifications when it's nearby, and even play a sound to help them find it.

So check out this great new feature of iOS 17!

That's it.

Enjoy!


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#iPhone #iOS #LostAndFoundNoMore #iOS17 #AirTag, #Apple @Apple #FindMy  #SharedTracking #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Saturday, December 16, 2023

Forget Flashcards, Meet Your AI Brain Buddy: How to Master Google NotebookLM

NotebookLM
Have you ever wondered how you could streamline your notetaking process with the power of AI? 

Are you drowning in research papers? 

Buried in PDFs? 

Say goodbye to information overload and hello to your personalized AI learning assistant.

Here's a Cool Tip.   Use the new Google NotebookLM!

Google NotebookLM is an experimental AI-powered note-taking app that aims to revolutionize how we process and retain information. 

It uses the power of Google's Gemini Pro language model to analyze your uploaded documents (PDFs, research papers, even textbooks) and create a personalized understanding of their content.

Here's how to do it.
  • Go to the notebooklm.google.com website.
    • Be sure you are logged into your Google account.
    • Select "New Notebook".
  • Add your first source:
    • Upload up to 10 documents, which may include Google Docs, PDFs from your computer, or any text content that is less than 50,000 words.
  • Once your sources are uploaded, you can ask questions about the documents you’ve uploaded.
    • Ask questions about your source to explain, summarize and provide insight.
    • Save answers to your notebook.

Here's an example where I loaded a copy of President Abraham Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address as a PDF into NotebookLM.

Lincoln Gettysburg Address
fig. 1 - Lincoln Gettysburg Address


Once the data is loaded into your NotebookLM notebook, you can then ask questions about your material.

For example, I asked "How does Lincoln use historical context to support his argument in the Gettysburg Address?"

NotebookLM provided the following:

  • He starts the speech by referencing the "four score and seven years ago" when U.S. was founded on the ideals of Liberty and equality.
  • He connects the Civil War to these founding principles by posing the question of whether any nation based on these principles can endure.
  • He reminds the audience of the sacrifices made by the soldiers at Gettysburg to uphold these principles.
  • He urges the living to rededicate themselves to these ideals and ensure that the sacrifices of the soldiers were not in vain.

By clicking the pin icon, I can save that answer into the notebook.

NotebookLM can provide personalized learning with tailored summaries, questions, and even writing styles based on your uploaded materials.

It is a great example of the power and usefulness of AI.

Are you ready to unleash the power of AI learning?

Remember, this is a Google experiment and feature can change.

And, as with any AI, triple check all answers and do not upload sensitive or proprietary information.


Enjoy!

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life

#Google @Google #AI #GoogleNotebookLM #AIforlearning #ResearchRevolution #AIWritingAssistant #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Friday, December 15, 2023

Game On, Typist! Master the Keyboard Jump Typing Game

Have you ever feel like your fingers are stuck in molasses while typing? 

Wish you could level up your keyboard skills and have a blast doing it? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Play the Keyboard Jump Game.

This free, addictive game is not just fun, it's a stealthy way to boost your typing speed and accuracy. 

So, ditch the spreadsheets and join the pixelated platforming party!

Imagine this: you're hurtling across a vibrant landscape, dodging obstacles and collecting coins, all while typing words that appear on the screen. 

Friday Funday OneCoolTip


Sounds thrilling, right? 

That's the magic of Keyboard Jump

It gamifies the learning process, making practice engaging and rewarding.

Typing Jump Game - Typing.com
fig. 1 - Keyboard Jump Game - Typing.com

Here's how to do it.
  • From a PC, navigate to Typing.com.
  • Create an account or log in if you already have one.
  • Select "Games" from the menu.
  • Find the Keyboard Jump icon.
  • Click "Play."
  • Choose your level: Start with Beginner if you're new or jump straight into Intermediate or Advanced for a challenge.
  • Type away! Words will appear on the screen. Type them correctly to propel your character forward and avoid hazards.
  • Collect coins and power-ups.
  • Level up and unlock new worlds

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life

#keyboardjump #typingcom #gamifiedlearning #typingfun #keyboardskills #levelupyourtyping #FridayFunday #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Thursday, December 14, 2023

Ditch the App? Navigate the Roads with Waze on the Web!

Waze
Stuck in traffic, phone glued to your dashboard, wishing you could check Waze without taking your eyes off the road? 

Here's a Cool Tip. Use Waze on the web! 

Did you know that you can use Waze on a PC?

But before you ditch the app entirely, let's explore the hows and whys of this web-based navigation revolution.

Ever get stuck in a dead end just because your phone ran out of battery? 

Or longed to plan your route on a bigger screen before hitting the road? 

Waze on the Web solves these woes and more. 

Access real-time traffic updates, find gas stations, report hazards, and even earn points - all without draining your phone's battery or squinting at a tiny screen.

How to Navigate with Waze Web:
  • Head to: https://www.waze.com/ on your desktop or laptop.
  • Allow location access. 
    • Waze needs to know where you are to show you relevant traffic and directions.
  • Enter your destination and choose your preferred route. 
    • Waze on the Web shows real-time traffic conditions so you can avoid jams and choose the fastest path.
  • See live traffic updates, accidents, police traps, and even gas prices along your route. 
  • Report hazards, accidents, and road closures to help other drivers on the road. 
  • Save your driving route instructions to your mobile phone Waze app by selecting the "Save to app" button.
  • The Best of Both Worlds!

fig. 1 - Waze on the Web


Use Waze on the Web on your laptop to research the best route, avoid construction zones, and find gas stations along the way.

So, ditch the app (or don't!) and explore the possibilities of Waze Web. 

Remember, the road less traveled might just be the one you see on a bigger screen!

Enjoy!

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE


OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#Google @Google #Waze #WazeWeb #NavigationRevolution #TrafficFighter #CommuteConfidence #BiggerScreenBetterDrive #techTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Unlock Your Inner Voice With The New Journal App on iPhones

iOS17
Are you ready to capture your thoughts, feelings, and experiences like never before? 

Have you wanted to start a digital journal but didn't know which app to use on your iPhone?

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use the new Journal app.

The latest iOS update, 17.2, introduces a revolutionary app - Journal - designed to transform your journaling journey. 

Here's how to use it.
  • Download iOS 17.2 (Settings-->General--> Software Update)
  • Launch the  Journal App.
  • Create Your First Entry.
    • Tap the "+" button. 
    • Select "New Entry." 
  • Type your thoughts.  
  • Add photos, videos, location, or even voice notes to make your entry memorable.

iPhone Journal App

The Journal app is designed for everyone, regardless of their technical expertise.

You can easily create journal entries throughout your day.

For example,
  • Record your day: Capture your daily reflections, including triumphs, challenges, and moments of gratitude.
  • Document your travels: Use photos and videos to create a vibrant record of your adventures.
  • Capture your creative spark: Jot down your fleeting ideas, sketches, and poems for future reference.
The Journal app, with its access to iOS suggest entries after key activities such as workouts.

Now is your chance to "write it out" and start your journaling adventure!

Enjoy.


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#iPhone #Journal #JournalApp #iOS172 #Journaling #SelfDiscovery #DigitalJournal #Expression #CreativeWriting #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Threads Levels Up Conversations With A New Hashtag Feature

Meat Threads
Do endless Threads conversations leave you feeling lost in a sea of messages? 

Have you ever wished you could easily find specific topics or connect with like-minded users? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use the new Threads topics hashtag feature.

Threads, a social media app launched by Meta Platforms, serves as a companion app to Instagram, focusing on text-based conversations and community building.

Threads' new feature embraces a clean and intuitive approach, transforming hashtags into clickable blue text, seamlessly integrating with the platform's design.

Here's how to do it.
  • Type the # key or select # from the row of icons. 
    • A list of popular hashtags pops up, allowing you to choose any of them. 
  • Start typing the tag you want to use
  • If your topic already exists, just select it. 
  • If not, you can add it as a new topic
    • The tag then appears in blue.

Meta Threads - Hashtag
fig. 1 - Meta Threads - Hashtag

For any Threads post that contains a hashtag, select the tag and it shows all related posts based on that tag.

Enjoy!


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#Threads #NewFeature #Meta #MetaThreads #Hashtags #Organization #Discoverability #Trending  #NoHashSymbol #TechTalk #SocialMedia #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Monday, December 11, 2023

Master the Magic of Excel: Unleash the Power of the Fill Handle

Microsoft Excel
Have you ever found yourself in a sea of data, manually copying formulas down a column in Excel? 

Have you ever wondered if there’s a faster, more efficient way? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use Microsoft Excel's most underutilized feature: the Fill Handle.

In Microsoft Excel, double-clicking the fill handle will automatically copy a formula down to the end of the data. 

The fill handle is a small black square in the bottom right corner of the active cell. 

When the pointer changes to a small black plus sign, you can double-click the fill handle to activate the AutoFill feature. 

www.OneCoolTip.com - Back To Work Monday

Here's how to do it.
  • Select the cell you want to copy.
  • Hover over the fill handle in the bottom right corner of the cell.
  • Double-click the fill handle.
  • The cells below will auto-populate based on the prior column and where you left off.
  • Scroll down to the bottom of your data to check if the formula has been copied correctly.

The Fill Handle can save you a significant amount of time, especially when dealing with large datasets. 

However, it’s important to note that it copies the exact formula, including relative cell references. 

If your formula includes absolute cell references, you may need to adjust them accordingly.



Excel Double Click Handle to Autopopulate

fig. 1 - Microsoft Excel - Double Click Selection Handle to Auto-Populate to End of Data


The Fill Handle is enabled by default in Excel. 

If it’s not working, check your settings: File > Options > Advanced > Enable fill handle and cell drag-and-drop.

Microsoft Excel - Enable Fill Handle
fig. 2 - Microsoft Excel - Enable Fill Handle





Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#Microsoft @Microsoft #Excel #ExcelTips #DataAnalysis #ProductivityHacks #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip #YouTube 

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Unlock Google Bard - Now Powered with Gemini Pro

Google Bard - Gemini Pro
Have you ever wondered how to make the most out of your Google Bard experience? 

Are you ready to unleash the full potential of Google Bard, the revolutionary AI platform? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Try Google Bard which is now powered by Gemini Pro.

Yes, Google Bard is now powered by the Gemini Pro Large language Model (LLM). 

It's available for free in Bard, allowing users to experience its text-based capabilities. 

Gemini Pro makes Bard better at Understanding, Summarizing, Reasoning, Coding and Planning


Google Bard - Powered by Gemini
fig. 1 - Google Bard - Powered by Gemini

Here's how to use it.
  • Navigate to the Google Bard website.
  • Log in with your Google account.
  • Type anything you want to ask.
  • Bard replies using the power of Gemini Pro.
Note:   Bard only supports the text-based version of Gemini Pro. You'll have to wait for multimedia interactions in future updates. 

With the release of Gemini Pro, users now have access to a range of advanced features that promise to enhance productivity, creativity, and information access. 

In the previous version of Bard, a prompt to ask Bard to generate basic text formats like poems, scripts, and musical pieces often lacked originality and coherence.

Gemini produces outputs that are more original, engaging, and consistent with the style and tone requested.

Here's an example to request Bard to write a poem about the beauty of nature.

Old Bard
The flowers are blooming, 
The birds are singing, 
The sun is shining. 
Nature is beautiful.

Gemini Pro:
Beneath the sun's warm gaze,
A canvas stretched so wide,
The earth awakes, a masterpiece,
Where vibrant colors hide.



fig. 2 - Google Bard, Now Powered by Gemini Pro


The improvement is dramatic.

In addition to Gemini Pro, Google also announced a version for mobile devices, Gemini Nano, and
a version for highly complex tasks called Gemini Ultra,

Both will be available at a later date.

So check Gemini Pro out and see the difference.

It's available in English in the US but will roll out to other languages and countries in the future.

Enjoy!


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life

 
#Google @Google #Bard #GoogleBard #Gemini #GeminiPro #AI #Productivity #Creativity #Innovation #TechTip #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip