PC users considering switching to an Apple computer oftentimes question whether the skills they learned on their PC will transfer to their new Apple computer. The answer to this question is that many of the basic skills people acquire on a PC can be at least partially applied to an Apple computer — whether it is an iMac, MacBook or MacBook Pro. And in fact, most of the new techniques and skills required to optimally utilize an Apple are intuitive to learn and will add to your overall satisfaction with your computer.
How long does it take to master an Apple?
The short answer to this question is that the amount of time required to master your computer skills on your new Apple MacBook, MacBook Pro or iMac depends on how familiar you already are with computers. Contrary to what many people mistakenly believe, if you are a long time PC user it will only make it easier for you to switch to an Apple. The fact of the matter is that any level of technological skill will help you to understand your new computer more intuitively. While there are definitely are some differences between PCs and Macintoshes, being computer-savvy on either of the two systems will help you with the other.
Can I use Windows on my Apple computer?
For a long time, PC users were reluctant to switch to Apples because they were familiar with the Windows software package. Not too long ago, however, Windows released a software package designed specifically for Apple computers. This software, known as Windows for Macintosh operates exactly like Windows does on a PC. Documents prepared on a PC can be opened and edited without a problem on an Apple computer with Windows for Macintosh. In short, the release of Windows for Macintosh has eliminated any legitimate reason to stay with a PC.
What makes it so easy to switch to an Apple computer?
Simply put, Apple computers –from the iMac to the MacBook– are intuitive to use. Everything you need to do is easily accessible from the finder located in the dock on the bottom of your screen. And each of the applications bundled on your Apple computer operates with similar commands. For instance, the commands used to operate your iPhoto application are extremely similar to the commands used to operate your iMovie application. In essence, learning one application provides you with skills that can be transferred to any of the other applications on your Apple computer.
Learning shortcut commands
If you are a proficient PC user, you are surely familiar with the keyboard shortcut commands. Apple computers also have shortcut commands, but they are not identical to the PC commands. For instance, the shortcut for cut on an Apple is “command c”, instead of “control x.” However, although there are differences between the two systems, it does not take long to retrain your fingers to learn the Apple shortcuts.
Traveling the learning is a worthwhile journey
If you are hesitant to take on a new system, rest assured that it is well worth the little effort you will exert in mastering your new iMac, MacBook or MacBook Pro. The dividends that your Apple computer will pay are too great to list and you will assuredly not be displeased with your new system.
