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How do I make my laptop screen resolution automatically resize when plugged into an external monitor?

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'DisplayWatcher is freeware that allows you to automatically change your screen resolution when plugged in to an external monitor. Instructions can be found on the site.
Last Updated Sunday, 09 March 2008

How do I take snapshots of windows or parts of my screen on a Mac?

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There are many options...

• Holding down the Command (Apple) key + Shift + 3 takes a shot of the entire screen. An image file is then created.
• Holding down the Command (Apple) key + Shift + 4 produces a 'crosshair' that you then drag over the area you want. An image file is then created.
• Either of the same key combination plus "Shift" at the same time produces no file but instead copies the image to the clipboard. Then just go to whatever program you want and then choose 'Paste'

Or...You can also use the Grab application designed specifically for screen shots that is included as part of Mac OS X. You’ll find it in the Utilities folder in the Applications folder.
Last Updated Sunday, 09 March 2008

Zooming the screen on a flat-panel Mac

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Pretend your pokey 15-inch flat screen is really 22-inches or bigger. If you have Jaguar OS 10.2 or above you can. Press this combination of keys: 'cmd (apple key) & option & 8' to access this ability. Now you can zoom in on your screen using 'cmd & opt & +' keys, and zoom back out using 'cmd & op & -'
Last Updated Tuesday, 30 November 1999

Rotate desktop background

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This is useful for people who are tired of their static backgrounds.

• Open System Preferences.
• Select 'Desktop'.
• In the Collection drop-down menu, select Pictures Folder or Choose Folder depending on where your pictures are.
• Check the Change Picture box and from the drop-down menu, select the interval between the change of picture. For a noticeable slide-show, try every 5 seconds.Now you have a changing slide-show in your desktop, just like a screen saver.

Last Updated Tuesday, 30 November 1999

Invert your screen to greyscale

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Press 'Apple' and 'option' and 'ctrl' and '8'

Usefulness? Limited! But it's certainly fun. May be helpful if you want to take notes on your laptop in a dark lecture theatre.One potential use is that the screen is easier to read in low light, low screen power setting if it is set to greyscale. This will probably also help you to save battery power if you are using a Powerbook. It's also easier on your eyes.

Last Updated Tuesday, 30 November 1999