Windows 8.1 Got Ya Stumped?

We grandparents are pretty tech savvy, but when it comes to the latest version of Windows, it’s been a bit of a challenge for many of us. That’s why we are so excited about our partners, Visual Steps™. They walk you through it. The secret’s right in the name.

Working with Windows 8.1

In the fall of 2013, Microsoft issued an update to the Windows 8 system, named Windows 8.1. If you are running Windows 8 on your PC, you may have already installed this update via the automatic updates or via the Store. This update should make it easier to work with Windows 8, especially for the desktop user. The update includes new features and small design changes to the Start Screen, desktop, File Explorer and other apps.

The Start button

The most prominent change is the appearance of the Start button at the bottom left corner of the screen: . This button gives you quick access to the Start Screen with all the apps. If you see the Start Screen, the Start button appears when you move the pointer towards the bottom left corner.The Start button also gives quick access to a new menu with a list of frequently used options. For instance, you can quickly open the Control Panel or File Explorer. There is also an option to shut down the computer. Here is how you do that:

Place the pointer on the Start button ;
Right-click the Start button;
Click ‘Shut down’ or sign out’;

You will see the various options that are available. You can use the ‘Shut down or sign off’ option to turn off your computer or sign out from your account so you or somebody else can log in with a different account. Other options available include Sleep en Restart.

Learn more about Windows 8.1

This is just one example of the new and updated features in Windows 8.1. If you want to learn more, you can’t go wrong with a book from Visual Steps. The book Windows 8 for SENIORS [http://www.visualsteps.com/windows8/] (ISBN: 9789059051188) is a great choice for a beginning user working on a computer running Windows 8. It covers all the basics operations. The logical sequel, More Windows 8 for SENIORS [http://www.visualsteps.com/morewin8/index.php] (ISBN: 9789059050792), will help the user gain an in-depth knowledge of more advanced topics about Windows 8.1 such as setting system preferences, exploring security options and creating back-up procedures.

The books from Visual Steps let you get started right away. You learn in a friendly, fun, hands-on manner. The larger print format is easy on the eyes. Each book contains step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow and supported by a multitude of helpful screen shots. You can view all of the books on the catalog page of the website: http://www.visualsteps.com/show_serie.php