Why You Need These Productive Things to Do on the Computer

Computers have become an integral part of our lives, with most of us spending a considerable amount of time in front of them each day. While it is easy to get lost in the endless sea of information and distractions on the internet, it is important to use our computer time efficiently and productively. Here is a list of productive things to do on the computer.

Learn Technical Skills

As technology continues to advance and shape the modern world, the demand for individuals with technical skills has skyrocketed. The great news is, with the widespread availability of the internet, you can now learn a new skill from the comfort of your own home, without a lot of time commitments. There is never a more perfect time than now!

Here are some of the most productive things you can learn in the technical skills area in any spare time you may have:

Programming

This topic is too broad to just gloss over in a section under the rest the Technical Skills heading, so it’ll actually get a full one coming up next. However, I wanted to point out that programming is such a good thing to learn, I am actually in the middle of this journey as I write this post, especially for up-and-coming technologies such as those related to cryptocurrency and blockchain! With that, there will be much more content coming soon about my journey through the programming world!

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services over the internet, including storage, servers, databases, networking, and software. By learning cloud computing, you can gain valuable skills in the deployment, management, and operation of cloud-based solutions. Platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure offer certification programs and online courses that teach cloud computing.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, theft, or damage. As the world becomes increasingly digitized, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals is growing. You can learn cybersecurity fundamentals, such as ethical hacking, knowing when to virus scan, network security, and cryptography, through online platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and edX.

Database Management

Database management involves the design, implementation, and maintenance of databases. Databases are used to store and manage data, and having database management skills is crucial for many organizations. Online resources such as Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses in database management and SQL (Structured Query Language).

Learn Programming

Programming is the process of designing, writing, testing, debugging, and maintaining the source code of computer programs. It is an essential part of computer science and software engineering, as it allows for the creation of software applications that can perform various tasks. There are many different types of programming that one can engage in, and each has its own unique set of challenges and rewards. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of programming, including web development, mobile app development, game development, and data science.

Web Development

Web development refers to the process of building and maintaining websites. This type of programming typically involves using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the front-end (or client-side) of a website, and server-side programming languages such as PHP, Ruby, or Python to handle the back-end (or server-side) logic. Web developers must have a strong understanding of how the web works, as well as the ability to design and develop websites that are both visually appealing and user-friendly.

One of the biggest challenges faced by web developers is keeping up with the latest trends and technologies. The web is constantly evolving, and new technologies are being introduced all the time. As a result, web developers must stay up-to-date with the latest best practices and tools, and be willing to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies.

Mobile App Development

Mobile app development involves the creation of applications that can be run on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. This type of programming typically requires a good understanding of mobile operating systems, such as iOS and Android, as well as programming languages such as Swift (for iOS) and Java (for Android).

Mobile app developers must also be able to design apps that are optimized for small screens and limited processing power. This often requires a different approach to app design, as well as a different set of programming skills and techniques. Additionally, mobile app developers must also be able to create apps that can be easily used on a variety of different devices and operating systems.

Game Development

Game development is a challenging and rewarding type of programming that involves the creation of video games. This type of programming typically requires a good understanding of game engines, such as Unity or Unreal Engine, as well as programming languages such as C++ or Python.

Game developers must be able to create games that are both visually stunning and engaging to play. This requires a good understanding of game design principles, as well as the ability to create interactive and immersive game worlds. Game developers must also be able to create games that run smoothly and efficiently, even on low-end hardware.

Data Science

Data science is a growing field that involves the use of data and statistical methods to extract meaningful insights and knowledge from data. This type of programming typically involves the use of programming languages such as Python, R, or SQL, as well as tools such as Jupyter notebooks, Pandas, and Matplotlib.

Data scientists must have a strong understanding of data analysis, machine learning, and statistical methods. They must also be able to work with large and complex data sets, and be able to extract meaningful insights and knowledge from these data sets. Additionally, data scientists must also be able to communicate their findings to others, often in the form of data visualizations or written reports.

Learn Business Skills

Business skills are essential for success in today’s fast-paced and highly competitive job market. Whether you are seasoned looking for professional development or a new entrant to the workforce seeking to gain a competitive edge, your future self will thank you for learning a few of these new things. With a few clicks of the mouse, you can access high-quality training and education programs, connect with other business professionals, and gain the knowledge and expertise you need to succeed.

Here we’ll explore some of the key business skills you can learn online, as well as tips and resources for getting started.

Marketing and Advertising

Marketing and advertising are critical components of any successful business. They help you reach your target audience, build brand awareness, and generate leads and sales. Online courses and certification programs can help you gain a deeper understanding of these fields and learn the latest techniques and strategies. Whether you are interested in social media marketing, digital advertising, or more traditional forms of advertising, you’ll find a wealth of resources online to help you grow your skills.

Some of the best online resources for learning marketing and advertising skills include Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare. These platforms offer courses and programs taught by industry experts, as well as hands-on exercises and real-world projects to help you apply what you learn to your own business or career.

Project Management

Project management is the art and science of planning, organizing, and managing resources to bring about the successful completion of specific goals and objectives. Whether you are working in a large corporation or leading a small startup, project management skills are essential for success.

Online courses and certification programs can help you develop your project management skills, from basic principles and methodologies to advanced techniques for leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects.

Some of the best online resources for learning project management skills include Project Management Institute (PMI), Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning. These platforms offer courses and certifications taught by experienced project managers, as well as resources and tools to help you apply what you learn to your own projects and initiatives.

Financial Management

Financial management is the process of managing money and resources in a way that maximizes value and profitability. Whether you are starting a new business, working in a finance role, or simply looking to take control of your personal finances, understanding the basics of financial management is essential.

Online courses and certification programs can help you learn financial management skills, from basic accounting and bookkeeping to advanced techniques for financial planning and analysis.

Some of the best online resources for learning financial management skills include Coursera, Udemy, and Investopedia. These platforms offer courses and programs taught by experienced finance professionals, as well as resources and tools to help you apply what you learn to your own finances or business.

Leadership and Management

Leadership and management are critical skills for success in any industry or profession. Whether you are a new manager looking to lead your team effectively, or an aspiring leader seeking to advance your career, online courses and certification programs can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Some of the best online resources for learning leadership and management skills include Coursera, Udemy, and Harvard Business Review. These platforms offer courses and programs taught by experienced leaders and managers, as well as resources and tools to help you apply what you learn to your own management style and leadership abilities.

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship is the process of starting and growing a business. Whether you are starting a new venture, looking to take your existing business to the next level, or simply exploring your entrepreneurial potential, there is never a time when knowing these skills is a negative.

Knowing Entrepreneurship skills also improves problem solving skills, increases innovation, promotes financial independence, enhances career opportunities, improves leadership skills, encourages creativity, among many others. Even if it is something as simple as grabbing your best friend and watching a Ted Talk on some YouTube channels, it is a great way to spend your free time!

Learn Creative Skills

Creative skills are essential for many aspects of life, and there has never been a better time to learn them. With the advent of the internet, there are now countless resources available for people to learn creative skills online and a great thing to start a new hobby. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most popular and rewarding creative skills that you can learn online, including graphic design, photography, writing, and music production.

Graphic Design

Graphic design is a skill that involves creating visual content for various purposes, such as logos, websites, advertisements, and more. This skill can be learned through online courses, tutorials, and forums, and there are many free and paid resources available.

One of the most popular tools for learning graphic design online is Adobe Creative Cloud, which offers a suite of graphic design tools including Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. With Adobe Creative Cloud, you can learn how to use these tools to create stunning visual content, from basic illustrations to complex designs. Additionally, there are many online courses and tutorials available that focus specifically on graphic design, offering step-by-step instruction and guidance on how to use these tools to achieve your creative goals.

Photography

Photography is another popular creative skill that can be learned online. With the proliferation of high-quality cameras and the availability of affordable editing software, photography is now accessible to a wider audience than ever before.

There are many online resources available for learning photography, including tutorials, forums, and courses. Some popular resources include websites like Skillshare and Udemy, which offer comprehensive courses on photography, covering everything from camera basics to post-production editing. Additionally, there are many online communities dedicated to photography, where you can connect with other photographers, share your work, and receive feedback and advice.

Writing

Writing is a powerful creative skill that can be used to tell stories, communicate ideas, and express yourself in a unique way. Whether you’re interested in writing fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or anything in between, there are many online resources available to help you improve your writing skills.

One popular resource for learning writing is the online writing community, where you can connect with other writers, share your work, and receive feedback and advice. Websites like Medium and Wattpad are great places to start, as they allow you to connect with a large community of writers and readers and get your work in front of a wider audience. Additionally, there are many online writing courses available, ranging from beginner-level classes to more advanced workshops and workshops on specific genres and techniques.

Music Production

Music production is a creative skill that involves creating and recording music using digital audio workstations (DAWs) and other music production software. With the proliferation of affordable music production tools and the availability of online resources, music production is now accessible to a wider audience than ever before.

There are many online resources available for learning music production, including tutorials, courses, and forums. Some popular DAWs for music production include Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and FL Studio, and there are many online courses available that focus specifically on these tools and how to use them to create music. Additionally, there are many online communities dedicated to music production, where you can connect with other producers, share your work, and receive feedback and advice.

Learn Life Skills

Online learning has come a long way since the early days of the internet. No longer is it limited to just basic computer skills, but now you can learn a vast range of life skills that can greatly enhance your personal and professional life. From cooking and fitness to financial planning and entrepreneurship, the options are endless. Here, we’ll discuss some of the most valuable life skills you can learn online and why they’re worth considering.

Cooking

Cooking is a life skill that everyone should have, and online learning makes it easy to pick up new techniques and recipes. From basic meal prep to more complex dishes, there are many websites and videos that offer step-by-step instructions. Plus, you can pause and rewind as needed until you get it just right. Some popular platforms for learning to cook include MasterClass, Cookpad, and YouTube.

Fitness

Getting in shape and staying healthy is essential for mental health, even as much as the physical health, and online learning can help you get there. From yoga and Pilates to strength training and cardio, there are many fitness programs available online. With a wealth of instructional videos, articles, and expert advice, you can customize your fitness routine to suit your specific needs and goals, although you will need to do the physical activity yourself to reap the benefits! Some popular platforms for fitness include FitOn, Peloton, and MyFitnessPal.

Financial Planning

Financial planning is a critical life skill that everyone should have, but not everyone knows where to start. From budgeting your bank account and saving to investing and retirement planning, online learning can help you develop a solid financial foundation. There are many online courses that cover these topics in depth, and many of them are free. Some popular platforms for financial planning include Investopedia, Mint, and Personal Capital.

Public Speaking

Public speaking is an important skill that is valuable in both personal and professional settings. Learning public speaking online is such a productive way to spend your time instead of the next time you want to surf social media sites, and it doesn’t even take much time! It is such a good idea because it is convenient and flexible, many times you’ll have access to experts in the field with a wide range of resources, and it is so cost-effective. Hey, even get a family member to take one of the free courses with you!

Language Learning

Learning a new language is a valuable life skill that can open doors to new cultures and career opportunities. Online learning makes it easy to study a language at your own pace, and there are many resources available. From virtual classes to language exchange programs, you can practice speaking and improve your grammar and vocabulary. Some popular platforms for language learning include Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone.

Get Organized on a Computer

Organization is a key factor in productivity and success, and in today’s digital age, there are many ways to get organized using a computer. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone trying to streamline their life, here are some tips and tools to help you get started, instead of online shopping (although that is fun too in small doses!).

Use a Task Manager

A task manager is a tool that helps you keep track of everything you need to do and a great idea to track good habits. You can use a standalone app like Todoist, or a built-in app like Apple’s Reminders. Task managers allow you to create a to-do list, set due dates, and categorize tasks by project or priority, so the most important tasks will always be the most visible. They also provide a quick overview of what you need to do and when, so you can prioritize your time and effort effectively.

Create a Filing System

A filing system is a way of organizing your digital files so that you can easily find what you need. You can create a system using your computer’s file explorer, or a cloud-based service like Google Drive. To get started, think about how you use your files and create folders based on categories like work, personal, and finances. Within each folder, create subfolders for specific projects or topics. Keep your filing system simple and intuitive, and make sure to regularly prune old and unnecessary files.

Use a Calendar

A calendar is an essential tool for keeping track of appointments, deadlines, and events. You can use a standalone app like Google Calendar, or a built-in app like Apple’s Calendar. Calendars allow you to create events, set reminders, and view your schedule at a glance. You can also share your calendar with others, so they can see your availability and schedule appointments with you.

Keep an E-mail Inbox Clean

An overflowing inbox can be overwhelming and make it difficult to stay organized. To combat this, make a habit of regularly checking and responding to your emails. When you receive an email, take action on it immediately if it’s quick and easy to do so. If it requires more time and effort, add it to your task manager or calendar. Use the “star” or “flag” feature to mark important emails, and create folders to categorize emails by topic. Unsubscribe from emails you no longer need or want, and use the “archive” feature to keep your inbox clean.

Use a Note-Taking App

A note-taking app is a great way to keep track of ideas, thoughts, and information. You can use a standalone app like Evernote, or a built-in app like Apple’s Notes. Note-taking apps allow you to create notes, add images, and categorize notes by notebook or tag. They also provide a search function, so you can easily find what you need.

Start a Side Hustle Online

In today’s fast-paced world, people are looking for ways to supplement their income and make extra money on the side. Thanks to the internet, there are now countless opportunities to run a side hustle from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re looking to make a little extra cash on the side or start a full-fledged online business, this post will explore some of the most popular side hustles you can run online.

Online Tutoring or Teaching

Online tutoring has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people look to supplement their income by sharing their knowledge and expertise with others. With platforms like TutorMe, VIPKid, and WizIQ, it’s never been easier to connect with students from all over the world and start earning money as an online tutor or teacher. Whether you have a background in a specific subject or simply a passion for teaching, online tutoring can be a great way to put your skills to use and make extra money.

Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing strategy where a company rewards affiliates for each customer brought to the business through the affiliate’s own marketing efforts. With affiliate marketing, you can earn a commission on every sale made through your unique affiliate link. Whether you run a blog, YouTube channel, or any other type of online platform, affiliate marketing can be a great way to monetize your content and earn extra money on the side.

Selling Products Online

Selling products online is another great way to run a side hustle and make extra money. With platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Amazon, you can easily set up an online store and start selling your handmade products, vintage finds, or any other items you have in your collection. Whether you’re an artist, crafter, or just have an eye for unique and interesting products, selling online can be a great way to monetize your skills and make extra money on the side.

Freelance Writing

If you have a way with words, freelance writing can be a great way to make extra money on the side. With platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr, you can easily connect with clients looking for writers and start earning money by writing articles, blog posts, and other types of content. Whether you’re an experienced writer or simply looking to get started, freelance writing can be a great way to put your writing skills to use and make extra money on the side.

Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants are in high demand as more and more businesses look to outsource administrative tasks to save time and money. With platforms like Zirtual, TimeEtc, and Virtual Staff Finder, you can easily connect with clients looking for virtual assistants and start earning money by completing tasks like scheduling appointments, managing emails, and performing research. Whether you’re an experienced administrative professional or simply looking to get started, virtual assisting can be a great way to put your organizational skills to use and make extra money on the side.

Learn to Automate

Starting to use macros and automation didn’t fit exactly into any of the categories above, as you would use them in tandem with other small tasks little things. However, learning to use macros and automation is one of the best things to streamline any workflow and the best way to make things easier on yourself!

Let’s discuss certain types of macros and automation and how they can help you to work smarter, not harder, even with something as seemingly simple as keyboard shortcuts.

What are Macros?

Macros are sequences of commands or actions that are recorded and can be played back at a later time. Essentially, they automate repetitive tasks so that you don’t have to do them manually. Macros can be used in a variety of applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and even web browsers. They are especially useful for tasks that you perform on a regular basis, such as formatting a document or copying and pasting data into a spreadsheet. By using macros, you can save time and avoid the frustration of having to complete the same task multiple times.

How to Create a Macro

The process for creating a macro varies depending on the application you’re using. In Microsoft Word, for example, you can create a macro by recording a sequence of actions and then saving it for future use. To do this, go to the “View” tab and select “Macros,” then “Record Macro.” From there, you can assign a name to your macro, select a location to store it, and start recording your actions. Once you’ve completed your sequence of actions, you can stop recording and save your macro for future use.

In Microsoft Excel, the process for creating a macro is similar. Go to the “View” tab, select “Macros,” and then “Record Macro.” You can then assign a name to your macro, select a location to store it, and start recording your actions. When you’re done, simply stop recording and save your macro.

The Benefits of Using Macros

Using macros can provide a number of benefits to help streamline your workflow and increase productivity. Here are a few examples:

Time-saving

Macros automate repetitive tasks, which can save you a significant amount of time in the long run. For example, if you need to format a large spreadsheet every week, you can create a macro to do it for you in just a few clicks. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of human error.

Increased Accuracy

Macros are programmed to perform tasks exactly the same way every time they are run. This eliminates the risk of human error, ensuring that your work is accurate and consistent. This is particularly important in fields such as finance, where even small inaccuracies can have significant consequences.

Improved Consistency

Macros help maintain consistency in your work by ensuring that the same processes are followed every time a task is performed. This can be particularly important in large organizations where there are many different employees performing the same tasks, or when you need to perform a task on a regular basis.

Customizable

Macros can be customized to meet your specific needs, making them a highly flexible tool. You can create macros for a variety of tasks, from simple data entry to complex programming tasks. Additionally, you can modify existing macros or create new ones as your needs change.

Improved Efficiency

Macros can be used to automate multiple tasks, making your work more efficient. For example, you can create a macro that performs a series of tasks in a specific order, saving you the time and effort of having to perform each task manually. This can also reduce the risk of human error, as the macro will perform the tasks exactly the same way every time.

Increased Productivity

By automating repetitive tasks, macros can help you focus on more important and creative tasks, increasing your overall productivity. Additionally, by reducing the risk of human error and ensuring consistency, macros can help you deliver better quality work in less time.

Reduced Stress

By removing the need to complete repetitive tasks, macros can help to reduce stress and frustration in the workplace.

Automation on a Computer

Macros are just one example of automation on a computer. There are many other ways that you can automate tasks and streamline your workflow. For example, you can use automation tools such as IFTTT (If This Then That) to automate tasks across multiple applications. With IFTTT, you can create “recipes” that perform specific actions based on triggers. One of the best ideas is to create a recipe that saves all new emails from a specific sender to a specific folder in your email account, helping with inbox clutter.

Another example of automation on a computer is using scripts and batch files. These are small programs that automate a sequence of tasks, such as copying files from one location to another, or running a series of commands in the command prompt. Scripts and batch files can be created using a variety of programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, and Batch.

Final Thoughts on Our Productive Things to Do on the Computer

To sum all this up, there are many productive things you can do on a computer to make the most of your time. From using to-do lists and keyboard shortcuts, to learning new skills and taking breaks, there are plenty of productive things to improve and avoid distractions. Whether you are working on a project, trying to improve your knowledge, or just looking for ways to be more efficient, using your computer time productively can help you achieve your goals and make the most of your time.