ECHO Detroit: Basic Computer Skills: Tips

Need help with basic computer skills? We’ve got your back!

1. Make a Goal

As with most things here at ECHO, we believe in setting goals for yourself! Goals help us stay organized, motivated, and create a path to actually get what we want. So...you want to use the computer. Instead of trying to tackle the whole thing at once—think—“What do I actually want to DO on the computer?” Once you decide this, spend your time learning how to chat with family or download music or type up your resume! If you start with what you actually want to do with the computer, you will have more FUN and learn a lot faster!

2. Do all the typing

If you are learning from a family member, friend, or ECHO staff member—don’t let them type for you! It might be more difficult at first, but you will learn much better from DOING than WATCHING.

3. Make a Gmail Email Account

Making an email address is an important step to diving into the Internet world. Everything is driven through communication via email. It is very simple to make an account—just don’t forget your password!

4. Google is Your Friend

Have you ever heard people say, you can find anything on google? Well its actually kind of true. Google is your friend because you can search for literally anything! If you are having trouble checking your email, want to make your own Neosporin, need to learn how to type--you name it--you can learn it on Google.

5. YouTube is Also Your Friend

For those of us visual learners in the crowd, YouTube is a great resource. Similar to Google, you can type in any computer related question and you will find a video of someone showing you EXACTLY how to do it step by step. I find this can be much easier than reading directions!

(Here’s an example: Basic Computer Tutorial)

6. Patience

Try over and over and over again. Don’t give up! The best way to learn is continuing to practice and be gentle with yourself. Remember that most teachers and family members have been using the computer for years (some for their whole lifetime) and forget how difficult it is to be a beginner. What you are doing is difficult and cherish yourself for it!