Tips and Tricks

Animated Cursors
I used to download animated cursors all the time. Here's a quick way to preview what they look like when animated: right-click on the ANI file and choose 'Properties'. In the upper-left corner of the dialog box you'll see the animation (albeit at a slower rate).

Refresh the Desktop
Sometimes the Desktop (and folders) don't refresh properly. If you've "stuff" on the screen that shouldn't be there, try hitting F5 and see if it disappears. If not, you might have a bigger problem on your hand. :) You can also hit F5 to "refresh" web pages. It's the Function key of choice!

Fast E-Mailing
Creating a new e-mail message is easier than you think. Try hitting WinKey+R (or using the Run command in the Start Menu) and type: mailto:user@user.com (of course, substituting that for the user's actual e-mail address). It should create a new message for your default e-mail client. You can even type the same thing on the Command line (otherwise known as a DOS Prompt) within Windows.

Computer Lockups
Did your computer lock up? Try hitting CTRL-ALT-DEL next time. I realize this is a no-brainer for the advanced users, but you'd be surprised how often we forget about the easiest way to shut down offending programs. You can hit this key combo even when Windows isn't locked up to view what programs are currently running (in the foreground and background). Being a super sleuth is simple.