Internet Browser Do’s and Don’ts

Your Internet browser is probably one of your most used apps. For this reason, it is important to know how to effectively use it. Regardless of what browser you use, you need to understand how to use these four very useful features. Let’s dig in.

Use (and Keep Up With) Tabs

Browsers let you keep multiple pages open at once, and before you know it, you've got 37 of them cluttering your screen like digital junk mail. This isn’t great and can have you digging for information. Here’s some ways you can manage your tab usage.

• Use pinned tabs for stuff you check often (email, messaging apps, etc.). Right-click a tab and hit Pin. It’ll stay small and out of the way.
• Group tabs if your browser allows it. This is a lifesaver if you’re juggling different projects.
• Regularly close tabs you don’t need. If you haven’t clicked on it in the last hour, you probably won’t miss it.

Keyboard Shortcuts Will Change Your Life

Forget dragging your cursor all over the screen. Your keyboard can do the heavy lifting. Here are some shortcuts that’ll make you feel like a wizard:

• Ctrl + T (Cmd + T on Mac) - Opens a new tab.
• Ctrl + Shift + T - Reopens the tab you accidentally closed (magic!).
• Ctrl + W - Closes the current tab (goodbye distractions).
• Ctrl + Tab - Switches between tabs (no more clicking around).
• Ctrl + L - Jumps straight to the address bar so you can type in a new website fast.

Using Bookmarks

Everyone needs bookmarks in their life. Just hit Ctrl + D (Cmd + D on Mac) to save a page. Better yet, organize them into folders; one for work, one for entertainment, and one for all those random recipes you collect and swear you are going to make someday.

Incognito Mode Isn’t Shady

Yes, incognito mode keeps your browsing history private (we won’t ask why you need that), but it’s also great for:

• Checking flight prices without airlines tracking you.
• Logging into multiple accounts at once.
• Testing how a website looks to a first-time visitor.

Of course, incognito mode doesn’t hide your web habits from your ISP, your employer, or anyone else on the network, so you should always browse safely.

Getting to know these features will instantly make you better at navigating your Internet browser. For more great tips and tricks, check out our blog.