If you work as a coder and would like to get a new computer, MacBook seems like a solid option. Despite being somewhat pricey, MacBooks are quite reliable and portable due to how little they weigh.
Of course, as a coder, you want to focus on the overall performance. While personal computers would offer better hardware, some coders need a laptop due to the nature of their work – traveling from one location to another.
Once you get a MacBook, you will find that it is a bit different from Windows (provided that you were a Windows user before). And to get the most out of your new computer and become accustomed to it quickly, follow the tips in this article.
Access the MacBook Remotely
Working remotely is quite common among coders. And this trend was noticeable before the pandemic. In some situations, you may find that you need to check your MacBook for something, but you do not have the laptop with you.
Thankfully, there are ways to access the MacBook remotely. The simplest solution to this problem would probably be a separate device. Imagine this as using a mouse to control the computer.
Devices for remote controlling mac include iPhones and iPads. It should not come as a surprise that you can create an ecosystem of sorts from connecting your Apple devices. Of course, you will need to get an iPad or an iPhone. However, if you bought a MacBook, it should be given that you already own an iPhone or an iPad, right?
Memorize Keyboard Shortcuts
Memorizing MacBook keyboard shortcuts as a coder should be one of the priorities. The list of every shortcut is available on the official Apple support website. Read what is available and figure out which shortcuts you want to focus on learning first.
Efficiency is one of the keys to become a successful coder. If your work takes a long time, you will struggle to meet the deadlines and worsen your relationships with the clients.
Of course, the straightforward solution to improve efficiency is to use the MacBook. The more time you spend on the keyboard, the sooner you will remember the shortcuts.
Have a Proper Maintenance Routine
Despite its reliability, you should not underestimate potential performance problems that your laptop may encounter. If it takes too long for an app to load, or you encounter random crashes or freezes, the overall work productivity will drop.
Keep tabs on the following to make sure that your MacBook is running optimally:
Get Rid of Distractions
Distractions are one of the most common reasons why you struggle to complete work on time. As a coder, you want to focus and have a workflow that does not get interrupted by some random distraction.
Similar to disabling notifications on your smartphone, you should do the same on your MacBook.
Go to the Notifications Center and see which of the applications are sending messages or pestering you to install irrelevant updates.
There will be some exceptions, of course. For instance, you do not want to miss system updates. Whenever you see a message about a new macOS version, be sure to install it at your earliest convenience.
Warnings about potential malware and other threats should also not be ignored. Lastly, if you use a communication platform like Slack, you should also keep the notifications for that one enabled, so you do not miss important messages from your coworkers.
As for irrelevant applications that are a hindrance, do not hesitate and disable notifications so that you have fewer disturbances while working.
Optimize Internet Browser
It is likely that an internet browser is an application that you use quite often. Similar to maintaining the overall computer performance in good shape, you should also be wary of some potential problems with the internet browser.
First of all, confirm that your internet connection is working properly. There may be some issues from your internet provider’s end. Also, remember that a wireless connection could be facing some interference from third-party peripherals like microwave ovens or wireless printers.
As for the browser, the most common causes to slow it down include:
- Too many extensions and add-ons.
- Failure to clear the browser cache.
- Opening too many tabs simultaneously.
Take Advantage of Available Tools
MacBook comes with some neat built-in tools. For example, Spotlight functions as the search feature on the computer. Besides, it allows users to get definitions, calculations, and conversions.
Time Machine is also worth a shout. It is recommended to back up MacBook data in case something happens to the hardware. Combining Time Machine with an external hard drive should be enough to create a copy of the computer files.