In an increasingly connected and competitive world, productivity has become a major issue for businesses and individuals. Tech giants have developed many tools and tips to optimize our time and efficiency daily. But some of these tips remain unknown to the general public. In this article, we reveal the well-kept secrets of Silicon Valley to boost your productivity and help you make the most of your time.
I. Hidden Tricks of Popular Apps
Popular apps like Google, Microsoft, or Apple have many little-known features that can help you become more efficient. Here are some examples:
A. Google Workspace
- Keyboard shortcuts: Did you know that Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides have plenty of keyboard shortcuts to save you time? For example, to insert a link, simply press “Ctrl + K” (or “Cmd + K” on Mac).
- Version history: You can access the edit history of your Google Docs to find older versions or see who made a change.
- Google Keep: Use this note-taking app to keep track of your ideas and to-do lists, and automatically sync them with your other devices.
B. Microsoft Office
- Quick Search: In Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, the Find function (Ctrl + F) lets you quickly find words or phrases in your document.
- Predefined templates: Take advantage of the templates offered by Microsoft to save time when creating documents, spreadsheets, or presentations.
- OneNote: This note-taking app lets you centralize your information and sync it with your other devices so you can access it anywhere, anytime.
C. Apple
- Keyboard shortcuts: Just like Google Workspace, Apple apps (Pages, Numbers, Keynote) offer keyboard shortcuts to save time. For example, to copy and paste text, use “Cmd + C” and “Cmd + V”.
- Handoff: This feature lets you start working on one device (like your iPhone) and pick up where you left off on another device (like your Mac).
- Reminders: Use the Reminders app to create to-do lists and receive timely notifications.
II. Browser extensions for better organization
Modern web browsers allow you to add extensions to personalize your online experience and improve your productivity. Here are some must-have extensions:
A. Todoist
This extension lets you manage your to-do lists right from your browser, schedule reminders, and sync your tasks with your other devices.
B. OneTab
OneTab is an extension that allows you to group all your open pages into a single list, freeing up your computer’s RAM and making it easier to navigate between your pages.
C. StayFocusd
StayFocusd is an extension that helps you stay focused by limiting the time you spend on distracting sites. You can set a time limit for each site or block access to certain sites completely.
III. Mobile apps to stay productive on the go
With the rise of smartphones and tablets, it is now possible to work efficiently on the go. Here are some mobile apps to optimize your productivity:
A. Evernote
Evernote is a note-taking app that lets you capture your ideas, create to-do lists, and store documents. You can also sync your notes with your other devices to access them anywhere, anytime.
B. Trello
Trello is a project management app that lets you create boards to organize your tasks, set deadlines, and assign responsibilities to your collaborators.
C. Pocket
Pocket is an app that lets you save articles, videos, and other online content to view later, even without an Internet connection.
Conclusion
Tech giants have developed many tools and tricks to help us optimize our productivity. By taking the time to discover and master them, you can become more efficient and improve your quality of life at work and home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these tips and adapt them to your needs to make the most of your time and resources.
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