Writing Solutions for the Tech-Challenged 

Help Someone Get Started With Computers

Everyone knows someone who trys to work with a computer and just does not "get it."

However, teaching a technologically clueless person how to work with computers is not as hard as you think. The main thing is to help them get over the fear of making a mistake and doing something awful.

Here are some tips to help your friend (of any age) get started with a computer. First and foremost, be patient! Your friend will appreciate it if you treat them with respect. Some people don't like the "dummies" books because they talk down to their intelligence. A lot of tech-challenged people are very bright, they just need a little help to get started. Others need a lot more help, but anyone can work with a computer if they really want to.

1. Set up the computer and ask your "friend" to sit in front of it. Show them where things plug in and why.
   
2. Show your friend the basics and assume nothing. As my mom used to say, "Assume only makes an ass of u and me" (assume = ass + u + me)...
   
   • Show them how to turn on the computer.
     
   • Explain the reset button and when to use it.
     
   • Show them the Windows start menu, and explain what those funny pictures are on the desktop.
   • Show them HOW to open a software program.
     
3. Next, if this is an older person, take the time to walk them through what they recall of using a typewriter and explain the differences from inside a word processing program. The main point here is patience and to assume nothing.
   To help, print out these two pages that describe the differences between typewriters and word processing programs, and provide word processor typing tips.
4. Finally, encourage them to make mistakes so that they can see the results. The computer does not blow up.
   • Do explain to your friend the importance of reading error messages carefully.
   • Do explain to your friend what "format" is.
   • As you follow these steps, encourage your friend to ask questions.
     
   • Do not consider any question too stupid.
     

By following these tips, you will find that your friend is less afraid of their computer. You can help them to view their computer as a friendly tool, rather than a beast to be tamed!

Finally, I'll be glad to try to provide tips for you. Just leave a response to a posting on my blog, and I'll see what I can do to help you.