Hold the Option key while tapping volume up, volume down, or Mute on the keyboard to quickly access the Sound preferences.
Quickest way to access the Mac’s Sound preference pane
Quickest way to access the Mac’s Displays preference pane
Hold the Option key while tapping the bright/dim buttons on the keyboard and the Displays preference pane pops up. So cool.
Save a step when emptying the Trash
Save two seconds by skipping the Empty Trash dialog box. Be sure you really want to empty it because they're not going to ask if you're sure.
How to type accent marks on a Mac keyboard
It's easy to type an accent mark on a Mac. As usual, the good stuff starts with the Option key. Takes a second to learn how.
Option-click speaker icon in menu bar to choose Mac’s input and output sound sources
Changing sound options doesn't require a trip to the System Preferences. Do it all from the Sound menu, with an Option-click.
Option-drag to resize Mac windows and graphic objects in two directions, keeping the center fixed
Resize Finder windows and graphic objects from the center by holding the Option key while you drag an edge or corner. Grow the item while keeping the item's center fixed.
Mac keyboard shortcut symbols, explained
Here's what those mysterious symbols mean in the Mac's menus. When I first got a Mac I didn't know. Maybe you still don't. But now you do.
Get the Save As… menu item back onto your Mac
Apple took away the Save As... menu item. That's too bad, because it's very handy. Actually it's still there, if you know how to bring it to the surface.
How to type a checkmark on a Mac
You'll need to type a checkmark someday. Here's how to do it.
How to access your Mac’s Library folder
Apple hides your Library folder because they don't want you accidentally messing it up. When you have to get into it, use the Option key and the Go menu.