Introduction
The stats tell us that people are switching from Windows to the Mac in record numbers, but those stats don’t tell us why. Perhaps it’s because Windows users would like to actually enjoy using a computer for a change. Perhaps it’s because Macs just work: you take them out of the box, plug them in, and within minutes you’re doing your thing. Perhaps it’s because Macs just look so darn good that Windows folks can’t help but admire their stylishness and innovative design. Or, perhaps, it’s those funny and strangely irresistible commercials.
Whatever your reason for switching to the Mac, the bottom line is that you’ve made the move and now your new Mac life is about to begin. It’s true that any computer is going to have problems, but your Mac is likely to have far fewer problems than any other type of system, particularly any Windows system.
The Mac uses a graphical, mouse-centric interface like Windows, but only some of your Windows know-how will transfer to the Mac. While the Mac can handle most types of data, you will face the task of getting your data onto your Mac in a form you can use. There’s no doubt the Mac is dead simple to use out-of-the-box, but some of its most useful and powerful features are hidden away in obscure parts of the operating system. Sure, the Mac’s robust design makes it a reliable machine day after day, but even the best-built machine can have problems.
When you come across the Mac’s dark side, you might be tempted to make an appointment with your local Apple Store’s Genius Bar, and it’s likely the on-duty genius will give you good advice on how to overcome the Mac’s limitations, work around its annoyances, and fix its failures. The Genius Bar is a great thing, but it isn’t exactly a convenient thing. You can’t just drop by to get help; you may need to lug your Mac down to the store; and in some cases you may need to leave your Mac for a day or two while whatever problem gets checked out and hopefully resolved.
What you need is a version of the Genius Bar that you can access at your fingertips. What new Mac users like you really need is a “portable” genius that enables you to be more productive and solve problems wherever you and your Mac happen to be.
Welcome, therefore, to Switching to a Mac Portable Genius, Second Edition. This book is like a mini Genius Bar all wrapped up in an easy to use, easy to access, and eminently portable format. In this book you learn how to get comfortable in your new Mac home by learning the ins and outs of the interface, what programs to use, how to perform the most important everyday tasks, and how to get your precious data onto your Mac. You also learn how to work around Mac challenges, prevent Mac problems from occurring, and fix many common problems yourself.
This book is for ex-Windows users who already know their way around a computer, and just want to transfer and apply that know-how to the Mac. It’s a book for people who want to get productive, efficient, and creative with their new Mac without have to wade through long and ponderous tutorials. It’s a book I had a blast writing, and I think it’s a book you’ll enjoy reading.
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