Essential tips, tricks, and shortcuts that every teacher should utilize on their computers

Nowadays, Windows offers a full range of handy tricks and shortcuts that can save time and boost productivity. These tricks can significantly improve efficiency and make using your Windows laptop more intuitive.

• When you're at work, coworkers often pass by and say hi — and sometimes, they might sneak a peek at your screen. It's a good idea to take steps to prevent that from happening.

1.  Use Windows key + L to instantly lock your laptop before leaving your desk.
2.  Use Windows key + D to show the desktop, which can minimize all windows
3.  Use the Alt + Tab keys to switch between open windows. 

• Take control of your workflow! Master multitasking on a Windows laptop with these handy tips for comparing and proofreading documents side by side.

1. Hit Windows + Left or Right Arrow and watch your screen split like magic—perfect for juggling two windows at once!
2. Use Snaps Layout for Windows 11
1. Make sure that Snap Windows is enabled in the Settings for multitasking.
2. Hover your mouse over the maximize button on a window, choose a layout, and select the documents you wish to multitask.  

• Teachers often find great resources online, but digging through bookmarks every time can be a hassle. Skip the browser routine—just create a desktop shortcut for one-click access.

1. Open Google Chrome, and go to the website you want to create a shortcut of.
2. At the top right, select the three dots icon. 
3. All the way down to Cast, save, and share, then select Create shortcut....
4. From the dialog that appears, rename the shortcut you like.
5. Select Create, and your shortcut is ready on the desktop. 

USING SMART INTERACTIVE BOARD IN THE CLASSROOM

Smart Boards are a great addition to the classroom because they make lessons more engaging and interactive. Students can write, draw, and move things around on the board, which helps keep them involved. Teachers can easily add videos, pictures, and online content to support different learning styles. These boards also make it easier for students to work together on group activities. With features like quick quizzes and the ability to save lessons, SMART Boards help make teaching more flexible and learning more fun for everyone.

For example, the White Board APP for Clevertouch Board. 

White Board, an application designed for front-of-class use and student device usage, enabling interactive content and collaboration.

Teachers can easily create lessons that fit their subjects and teaching styles. Just change the background to match what they are teaching:

• In Geography class, use a map as background so students can label continents, countries
• In Language Arts class, Add an image of a book character or scene to inspire discussion or creative writing.
• In science class, use diagrams of plants, animals, or the human body to explore anatomy together.
• Music class can use a background with musical staff lines for reading or composing notes.
• PE coaches can pull up a basketball court or soccer field to plan out game tactics visually.