These days, nerds are everywhere. Twitter profiles proclaiming oneself as a nerd abound. Ironic nerd eyeglasses have been popularized by celebrities and adopted by the masses. There’s even a nerd dating website, and I swear at least one of your colleagues is on it. I wouldn’t even be surprised if Nerd candy made a comeback. Blue tongues for everyone!
No longer confined to dusty basement computer labs and all-night LAN parties, one would imagine that the great 21st century nerd outage would result in all of us getting a little smarter when it comes to all things techy. Right? Wrong. Here are 10 things I’ve learned from having my very own live-in nerd. These may sound basic, but they’ve eliminated 90% of my tech problems over the past seven years.
- When there’s an update, do it. It sounds silly, but I used to think that those little updates that pop up on your computer were more suggestions than mandates. I’d always push them off until later, thinking “When I really need it, the computer will force me to do it.” Guess what? It turns out that’s not true! Doing the basic updates makes a big difference in how well your computer works. Shocker.
- When in doubt, restart. One of Scott’s colleagues gives the following default computer advice to family members who call for computer help: “Restart 3 times then call me if it’s still not working.” Ha! Three times sounds a bit excessive to me (think he’s just trying to avoid the work?!?), but it’s amazing how often a simple restart can fix a phone, computer, cable box, or whatever other technological device that’s pissing you off.
- Back up your work. No, this doesn’t mean buying 500 CDs and then putting one of your folders on each of them. Get an external hard drive, plug it in every couple of weeks and you’re good to go. I also love Dropbox, a free service that lets you save and access files from multiple computers. It’s not good for backing up your whole computer, but if you only care about a folder’s worth of documents/photos, it might be the best route for you.
- Don’t be afraid to Google it. The IT people from my company once worked for 4 hours and couldn’t find a lost document I’d spent hours working on. I was heartbroken. Scott came to the office, Googled the problem, and found the solution in five minutes. So often we think of Googling basic information but get intimidated to do it when it comes to technical issues. Don’t fall into this trap! Nerds like to post solutions on Web message boards because it makes them look cool. Use this to your advantage.
- Mix up your passwords. Did you know it’s not cool to use the same password for all your accounts? Apparently it’s a major nerd violation. Make sure to mix up your passwords or use a password memory tool like LastPass to really secure your accounts. Bonus nerd points if you do the latter.
- Sometimes it’s best to start fresh. If you’re having computer problems, sometimes the best thing is to totally wipe out everything on it and start over with a clean slate. Of course, this is a lot easier to do if you’re already following #3.
- It’s worth it to invest in good technology. Technology is like anything else in life: you get what you pay for. If you want a reliable computer that’s going to last more than a few years, don’t expect to get it at an open box sale at Wal-Mart. If you invest in quality technology up front, it will pay off in the long run.
- Use the free tools available. Between LastPass, DropBox, EverNote, Xmarks, Google Docs, RunKeeper, etc. there are tons of free tech tools that not only make your life easier, but more secure. Take a look at the “top free apps” listing on your phone and check out Lifehacker’s app directories every so often. If anything looks interesting to you, try it out. If it sucks you can just delete it and blame me. What’ve you got to lose?
- If you don’t know what it is, don’t click on it. This should go without saying, but if you don’t know the person sending you a link, don’t click on it. If you do know the person but they don’t sound like themselves or they’re sending you something out of character, don’t click on it. You can usually tell if a message is fishy if the text sounds canned or there’s no personalized greeting. When in doubt, send a separate message to the person telling them about the message you received and asking if it’s legit. Don’t risk getting a virus.
- Don’t be scared. So many people have a guttural fear of technology—a fear of doing something wrong and messing up the whole computer or phone in the process. The truth is that it’s pretty hard to do anything that would permanently damage a computer or phone. Don’t be afraid to play around with things, make mistakes, and then figure out how to fix them. That’s how you learn. Who knows – if things really go wrong, you might just ask a guy in a bar to help you fix it and end up meeting your husband.
241 comments
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01/25/2012 at 1:35 pm
Mikalee Byerman
There is so much nerdy awesomeness in this post — seriously…
🙂
So the updates really are important, huh? I fall in the camp of “hitting ignore the second they pop up.” Perhaps I should consider the other camp instead…
01/25/2012 at 1:37 pm
Becky
Last Pass is the ultimate!!!!
01/25/2012 at 1:37 pm
natasiarose
I don’t want to be one of those annoying Mac people…but I am. I love the list and I would 11. Buy a Mac. Just do it.
01/25/2012 at 2:13 pm
inspirationfiles
Agree! It’s so worth it for better functionality, longevity of the device.
02/09/2012 at 12:17 pm
tinyinstruments
You’re right. That is great advice for non-nerds.
01/25/2012 at 1:39 pm
Kate
Great post! I’ve learned several of these from my own nerd… number 4 has saved me many times, I still need to learn number 1 however… this is a good reminder 🙂
01/25/2012 at 1:41 pm
rmv
#9 and 10 seem to contradict each other.
#6 will likely take about three hours, depending on how much software you have to reload. also, be sure to back up documents and pictures etc. before wiping out your hard drive.
01/25/2012 at 1:41 pm
Dounia
Very cool post – thanks for sharing and congrats on being freshly pressed!
01/25/2012 at 1:44 pm
Lyssapants
Great list! Since I am one of the youngest in my department at work, I am often helping my older, baby boomer coworkers with their computers. I am in no way a computer genius – far from it – but I tend to look like one to my coworkers since, by following things on this list, I often am able to fix whatever problem they are having. Maybe I should print this list out and put it in their inboxes……hmmm…….
Thanks for the post!
01/25/2012 at 1:45 pm
Musings of a bou
I have a friend who saved all her passwords in a word doc and then password protected that. Of course, she forgot the password of the word doc 😛
01/25/2012 at 1:49 pm
Jayati
nice post !!!
enjoyed reading it …
True some people are frightened of technology
But its really difficult to cause some major harm to a device …
And it is always fun to learn from one’s mistakes!
01/25/2012 at 1:53 pm
justalittlebrit
Haha I’m such a tech dork so I loved this post 🙂
01/25/2012 at 1:55 pm
joygirl
Since my husband and I are both complete techno-idiots, I pored over this list with great interest. Though many of these suggestions may strike those more ‘in the know’ as no-brainers, they aren’t always to me! In the area of technology, I hate myself! 🙂
01/25/2012 at 2:14 pm
inspirationfiles
Don’t hate yourself – we all have to start somewhere! I’m glad you liked them 🙂
01/25/2012 at 2:00 pm
CJ
Wish I could double like this! Fantastic points and useful knowledge for those of us without a nerd handy.
Thanks!
01/25/2012 at 2:07 pm
findingmyworth
Hmm guess I better do my updates…thanx for the info 🙂
01/25/2012 at 2:16 pm
scribblechic
Simple, helpful reminders. Nicely said.
01/25/2012 at 2:16 pm
ancientfoods
Great post! Never be afraid of tech-no matter the age. Right on points to follow. If everyone took your advice there would be fewer problems.
01/25/2012 at 2:20 pm
Rae
I consider myself a nerd but I’m really bad about ignoring my computer updates. Maybe I should re-categorize myself as a lazy nerd.
01/25/2012 at 2:21 pm
DoF@theinfill
As someone who dabbled for 11yrs teaching IT to adults, I agree entirely 😉
01/25/2012 at 2:24 pm
Montier
good tips…thanks for those..im a nerd and this looks great so far
01/25/2012 at 2:29 pm
marcsart
hmm thought this would be more insightful, rather than a list of computer tips that anyone with common sense would know. seriously, this is all you’ve learned from your live-in nerd?
01/25/2012 at 2:29 pm
sportsjim81
Nice post. I have a few Nerds in my life that have helped me learn some of these keys to success, but now I feel more inclined to do things myself…uh…nah, nevermind!
Also, nice to me a fellow Baltimore blogger. I’ve met a lot of great bloggers in the past year I’ve been on here, but you’re the first from my neck of the woods!
01/25/2012 at 2:31 pm
hangryhippo
great advice! we all need a live-in nerd…;)
01/25/2012 at 2:33 pm
XoxoErica
Funny, and oh so true (1-10)!
Great post!!
01/25/2012 at 2:40 pm
dennisclevenger
Hello, your list is awesome! I consider myself at the upper end of the Intermediate PC-user scale and can relate to everything you listed. Good job! 😉
01/25/2012 at 2:40 pm
Bam
SHOCKING …. since my husband and I do some of these already, its shocking to see how nerdy we both are, and we just thought we were throw back hippitechs.
01/25/2012 at 2:44 pm
The Hook
Super title!
“Who knows – if things really go wrong, you might just ask a guy in a bar to help you fix it and end up meeting your husband.”
Super line!
01/25/2012 at 2:47 pm
kitsproson
You probably would have learnt most of these things eventually regardless of whether you’d lived with a nerd or not
01/25/2012 at 2:48 pm
coupletastic
I love your blog…and this post! I married a wonderful nerd who has taught me so much about the tech world. We even met via online dating…makes sense, right? 😉
I love “if you don’t know what it is, don’t click on it”….I think I’ve finally learned my lesson!
-Kristin
http://coupletastic.com
01/25/2012 at 4:47 pm
inspirationfiles
Ha! I’m so glad I married a nerd too…if I could only convince my sisters to marry a plumber, an electrician and a mechanic, we’d be in great shape!
01/25/2012 at 2:51 pm
Erica Earl
These seem so simple, even for a low tech, roommate reliant, last decade girl like me. But aha, light bulb! I have never thought of some of these simple and painless solutions to everyday life at a job that has me typing at a compute all day. Your findings mean less calling IT, more superhero moments for everyone! Thank you, fashion trends and shows like Big Bang Theory and Chuck for making nerds mainstream to inform the rest of us, and thank God and online tools that learning the tricks of the trade to become a nerd yourself can be simple.
01/25/2012 at 2:54 pm
Searching for the Light
Does doing most of the things on the list make me sensible or a nerd?
01/25/2012 at 4:45 pm
inspirationfiles
Ha! Sensible, I’d say…I wouldn’t put myself in the nerd category but I do them!
01/25/2012 at 2:55 pm
Blog Comments 2 « Erica Earl Journalism
[…] #3- File Under “Chic Geek.” On “Top 10 Things I’ve Leanred from Living with a Nerd” by […]
01/25/2012 at 2:57 pm
clayer
Love your blog and this post is SO cute. I look forward to seeing more.
Feel free to stop by my “positography” project, as I call it 🙂
http://aphotoaday2012.com/
claire
01/25/2012 at 4:44 pm
inspirationfiles
Thanks!
01/25/2012 at 3:11 pm
Limskaya
Reblogged this on The Gaming Potential and commented:
True, so true!
01/25/2012 at 3:12 pm
James
Reblogged this on Chemical Fawn and commented:
Ran across this on Freshly Pressed, so you probably have, too. But it is well written and worth a read 🙂 And you might even learn a thing, or 10.
01/25/2012 at 3:23 pm
Dark Acts Bible
Love this! I feel nerdier already!
01/25/2012 at 3:31 pm
politeandparanoid
Hunny eats Nerds (the candy) like they’re going out of style, but if they’re already out of style, I should let him know. Maybe he’d eat less. Thanks for this list! I’m definitely getting Hunny to read it b/c we’re both not technologically savvy & it’s hard having two techno doofuses under one roof. Thanks again & congrats on being freshly pressed!
01/25/2012 at 3:35 pm
robrombouts
Great recommendations. I’m the IT guy at work by default…in that everyone else is afraid of computers, but I definitely utilize #2 and #4 to fix many of the problems that come up.
And I wish more people would understand #9 and #10
01/25/2012 at 3:42 pm
JWill
Reblogged this on The Water Tank and commented:
Very Useful
01/25/2012 at 3:48 pm
April
I too have married a nerd, and I’ve learned a lot of techie things along the way. Love the list, and I can totally relate!
01/25/2012 at 3:57 pm
blogattack
Oh man, this is SUCH a great list! And it’s also totally true – for instance, I never knew buying the pricier laptop was a better plan or that I could get an external hard drive until I met my current girlfriend (who is a pretty big nerd). She also Googles EVERYTHING, so if I have a question she’s on it and then I magically have an answer 5 minutes later. WHO KNEW?!
01/25/2012 at 3:57 pm
Cat
Haha, thanks for this! Pays to be close to a nerd. 🙂
01/25/2012 at 4:04 pm
secretrambles
Hey, nerd here.
To avoid an issue with a virus, just use a Unix based operating system. My preference is Linux, but a Mac is probably more non-geek friendly.
(Had to advocate for Linux. I couldn’t help my geekiness.)
01/25/2012 at 4:11 pm
stayathometatte
I used to work for a small computer sales/service company, but more in the sales rather than service. I was rather surprised when I learned about the sheer number of times Google was used when trying to diagnose an issue. It generally got the job done, though.
Great post!
01/25/2012 at 4:21 pm
Writing Blanks
Very great summary of good advice. Lifehacker is super useful, and I couldn’t live, as a creative writer who is always taking notes and writes across several devices, without Evernote.
01/25/2012 at 4:43 pm
inspirationfiles
I couldn’t agree more – Evernote keeps me sane!
01/25/2012 at 4:29 pm
tenthousandleaves
Wow, this is great. Now go forth and spread your new knowledge to the non-geeky masses!
01/25/2012 at 4:48 pm
valentinedee
Thank you for the list. It’s well needed info.
val
http://valentinedefrancis.wordpress.com
01/25/2012 at 4:51 pm
o1iveman
Wait, this wasn’t common sense before? I wear the nerd badge proudly, but are people really so slow on the uptake with technology that they have to depend on us Nerds to tell them what to do?
http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-january-18-2012/ko-computer?xrs=share_copy
(Relevant)
01/25/2012 at 4:52 pm
dani.o
Reblogged this on Two Chicks and commented:
I think of my boyfriend as quite the nerd… but he’s more a science-y I know random zoology facts that are interesting to share with people I don’t know well. I love hearing all about his latest lesson but these facts I can actually use, well you know aside from starting a random conversation with someone.
01/25/2012 at 5:16 pm
On the Density Of Culture « sevemanzoor
[…] recently featured a blog post by the Inspiration Files detailing ten simple “nerd” rules that changed […]
01/25/2012 at 5:24 pm
sexytofu
Love it! I never back stuff up…the worst
01/25/2012 at 5:41 pm
sofiacrawford
Reblogged this on the techpusher beat.
01/25/2012 at 5:42 pm
gemmafawn
Reblogged this on gemmafawn.
01/25/2012 at 6:08 pm
fireandair
Unfortunately, a lot of people who live with nerds have also learned a potentially problematic corollary to #1: Don’t click on popup windows that you can’t understand. To the technologically naive, the “Click here to update your Windows” popup that your live-in nerd wants you to click on isn’t that distinguishable from the “Click here to see whether we can bullshit you into buying our fake security software” popup that he will probably think you a complete moron for clicking on, or the “Click here so we can install a shedload of spyware that you will never ever get rid of” popup that will result in him just telling you to just throw the thing into a dumpster someplace and buy a Mac.
Left to their own devices, most people will simply choose the path of least action and click on nothing. Ever.
01/25/2012 at 6:12 pm
Josephine
awesome post 🙂 everything in here, i’ve already learned from my nerdy boyfriend as well! Thanks for putting them into words!
01/25/2012 at 6:25 pm
the777man
Oh this is just such perfect timing! Haha! Okay, so I think I fall under the nerd category, but I did get such a chuckle out of this post. The reason it is such perfect timing is that my 80 year old dad and I just spent yesterday completely rebuilding one of our computers. It is so much fun, we went from 200 gb to 2 terabites hard drive. My dad was laughing about the things he has seen in his lifetime, as he started out in the 80’s with a 20mb hard drive. I said dad you grew up without computers, and you remember outhouses? LOL.
If you are bad about backing up, trust me start today… I once had a computer crash and lost 10 chapters of a novel I was writing! It is not worth it!
I do love that being a nerd is cool, now! Some kids at school were bullying my son, because he was a nerd, and I told him that next time they start, you just tell them “Yeah! Ain’t it cool! Someday you are all going to work for me!”
Oh and if you are depending on a nerd spouse, be careful! My X kept asking me to come over and fix his computer all the time after the divorce. Ooops! I accidentally erased all his files! Don’t know how that happened!
Peace and Harmony,
Sallyjane
Writers Contest for charity, at http://www.the777man.com
01/25/2012 at 6:27 pm
the777man
Oh another good tool is youtube, as nerds love to make videos of how to fix everything! Just saying!
01/25/2012 at 7:51 pm
inspirationfiles
Haha, that’s true. Thanks!
01/25/2012 at 6:28 pm
S. Smith
Interesting! 🙂
01/25/2012 at 6:34 pm
Sebastian
Great post…even for those of us who have been called nerdy!
01/25/2012 at 6:50 pm
genxatmidlife
Great post! I used to work at a PR agency myself, and we would always confound the tech guys with our ignorant solutions to problems like, “Just start pushing buttons, and something is bound to happen.” They also used to love it when we wouldn’t clean out our inboxes due to the need for a “paper trail.”
01/25/2012 at 7:11 pm
Amesbury Road Interiors
Yes, these are the exact things my boyfriend, a computer programmer and huge nerd has taught me. Especially number 2, I don’t even ask him anymore!
01/25/2012 at 7:25 pm
the777man
[…] was reading on another Blog titled “10 things I learned from Living with a Nerd”, and found it humorous as to […]
01/25/2012 at 7:42 pm
A nerd tells us… | André's blog
[…] https://inspirationfiles.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/top-10-things-ive-learned-from-living-with-a-nerd/
01/25/2012 at 7:55 pm
Shane Sullivan
Reblogged this on The Land Of "The Unit" and commented:
Great article. Share it with you computer illiterate friends.
01/25/2012 at 8:23 pm
fati's recipes
🙂 This is really nice 🙂 I loved it. I’m a bit of a computer nerd myself. I’d have to be since I’m studying it at uni! Thanks for sharing.
01/25/2012 at 8:34 pm
***The LensMaster
I really don’t like reading long blogs…but this one hooked me up! It was informative…It’s worth to link in FB or elsewhere…Thanks for this one…learned a lot!!! And hope to hear more of those nerdy insights… 🙂
01/25/2012 at 8:35 pm
starlight
i really love your post.. great info you got there and finding myself guilty of #1.. and yes you’re right, mr. google is a big help.. congrats on being FP.
01/25/2012 at 9:28 pm
Gillian Maddigan
Very cool post, it to posting it to Facebook page for my friends. I have a Mac which make it easier for me on one side and a PC for work. This challenging to go back and fourth, but I have an electrician. He taught himself to be a nerd, 2 in 1 but way more nerd than electrician at home.
01/25/2012 at 9:32 pm
brennagrimes
Great advice. Learned a few of these from my very own live in nerd…except for the updates one. Ugggggg….I should probably do that next time it pops up…? Its been a few months.
01/25/2012 at 9:35 pm
Gillian Maddigan
this is great so are the comments
01/25/2012 at 9:43 pm
matthewweld
I used #4 to transfer my contacts and calendar from my Palm Pre to my new iPhone when the Verizon store techies said it couldn’t be done. The though of re-adding ALL those contacts frightened me enough to try anything. Now, EVERYTHING is googled (Siri is a big help in that respect).
01/25/2012 at 9:50 pm
readytochangenow
Uh-oh I am a mad cliker – not on Spam, but on software I am trying to learn. I once got over excited in the control panel and removed drivers…great tips! Thank you.
01/25/2012 at 10:03 pm
Cathy
Great Post. I have already learnt some of the lessons by trial and error.
I lost alot of valuable photos that I did not back up on an external hard drive to my great regret. And yes, investing in a Mac is the best thing i ever did as it relates to technology…no more viruses and it is easy to upgrade.
01/25/2012 at 10:05 pm
respectfullywritten
I did a stint as CSR for Geek Squad. Here is a good tip for everybody:
Standby on your computer is for temporary standby during the day. It is NOT staying logged in for weeks and months. I had so many calls from people who went MONTHS without restarting their computer and couldnt figure out what was wrong lol. I mean, literally 75% of my calls. If you dont restart your system daily, important updates will not install. Too many of these back up, and you will find yourself in need of a new operating system. Just a tip: Turn it off at the end of the day!
01/26/2012 at 8:43 am
inspirationfiles
That’s a great tip!! I’ve definitely been guilty of that one before…
01/27/2012 at 10:23 am
pooplog (@poolpog)
Only true for Windows computers. Mac, not so much. Ubuntu, not so much.
01/27/2012 at 12:12 pm
inspirationfiles
I disagree – I work on Macs at home and at work.
01/25/2012 at 10:28 pm
msharyf
Great post! I’ve been hitting the ‘remind me later’ button on my antivirus software for years now :p. My flat mate told me the about the whole restarting the laptop thingy.
01/25/2012 at 10:32 pm
bloggeretterized
Great post!
10 important life lessons we should all be following! 🙂
01/25/2012 at 10:36 pm
Savvy Voyageur
That was awesome! You were speaking to my heart. I work at a computer support center – 9 x’s out of 10 a full reboot/restart fixes everything! Now if people would just stop getting mad at ME because they forget THEIR passwords, my life would be so much smoother.. eh hem.. well, one can always dream right? Haha Congrats on Freshly Pressed!
01/25/2012 at 10:51 pm
mycogds
I had to laugh because I am exactly that way about the updates. I always push it off and eventually I will get a virus on my computer that leaves my husband grumbling. Reposted to FB.
01/25/2012 at 10:59 pm
everysinglepenny
This post made me realize that I must be a total nerd. LOL very good read.
01/25/2012 at 11:01 pm
jboydjen
Reblogged this on jboydjen.
01/25/2012 at 11:04 pm
The Sleepy Moose
This is so Ace it should have been carved in Stone! Awesome list!
01/25/2012 at 11:36 pm
wutheringwillow
Oh my God! I am a nerd! I know and do all of the stuff mentioned above AND I advise other people on how to do them. Thanks for helping me recognize that!
01/26/2012 at 8:41 am
inspirationfiles
Embrace it! Nerds are awesome!
01/26/2012 at 12:18 am
didjaeat
this is a fantastic top 10 list and right on the mark! i worked in IT for over 15 years and if more people followed those rules, I would be able to take more naps 🙂
01/26/2012 at 12:25 am
Josh
Ha, ironically, those 10 points covered applied to me.
01/26/2012 at 12:33 am
shadowed312
really awesome blog… so true!!
01/26/2012 at 12:38 am
ururu5
oh shit!.. im a nerd
01/26/2012 at 12:42 am
Giovanni Hale
Reblogged this on Giovanni Hale Blog and commented:
Great read for the tech inclined…
01/26/2012 at 12:55 am
metan
Great list! I have learnt the value of number 1, wish I was better at number 3 but live by number 10. Now my mother-in-law is convinced I am some sort of mobile phone and camera healing genius. She screws it up and then won’t let anyone touch it until I get there and magically fix it. I don’t really know anything about tech but I know that I can’t mess it up worse than she has!
My kids love the nerd lollies, you still get them here. Hmmm…they have spent the whole school holidays playing video games and building lego spaceships….no way I can get them outside on a sunny day. Perhaps they will be the nerds of the future, fixing my computer soon!
01/26/2012 at 1:16 am
gaycarboys
I’m going to give last pass a go.. there is nothing worse than relying on the password tools in IE and firefox which are frankly not that brilliant and sometimes don’t work well, if at all.
01/26/2012 at 1:43 am
barcncpt44
Good post! I really love to back up my files on Drop Box.
01/26/2012 at 1:55 am
logyexpress
I married a nerd, but he’s a Linux nerd. He can’t help me with my Mac. Which doesn’t always “just work,” as Mac people like to say. So I hear you on backing up!
I love technology, but it doesn’t always love me back. I really want this syncing via the cloud stuff to work, but it just doesn’t. Something always gets screwed up. I fondly remember syncing my PDA with my computer via wires back in the Stone Age.
01/26/2012 at 2:32 am
transformwithme
thats true 😉
01/26/2012 at 2:36 am
Rachel
great post! 🙂 thx for the tips 😉
01/26/2012 at 2:41 am
mffanrodders
Great advice. My computers acting a little squiffy at the moment and i know it’s because i have failed it. 😦
Nice post and congratulations on being freshley pressed.
01/26/2012 at 3:13 am
innocent1reborn
So in a nutshell what you’re saying is marry a nerd…
01/26/2012 at 8:40 am
inspirationfiles
No – these are my tips for those who HAVEN’T married nerds 🙂
01/26/2012 at 3:49 am
Chaks
awesome post and great points.
TechSmartLife
01/26/2012 at 4:02 am
viv
Its so hard to have more than one password..I barely remember them. Best I could do is write them down, then again that isn’t the safest way.
01/26/2012 at 4:43 am
Blogbiscuit
I am the family nerd, i get called, i get asked to visit to sort out the simplest of visits (needless to say there tends to have to be the price of a bottle of cider or vodka based beverage at the end of the day) usually the callers are over 60, yes you guessed it, my parents or my inlaws, and what you say here is correct.
01/26/2012 at 5:21 am
Robert Kodama
Number 4 – so true!
01/26/2012 at 5:30 am
http://peteroduor.wordpress.com/
If you don’t know what it is, don’t click it….ask me about that and I will tell you a of a cleaned out hard disk…so true…don’t dare…
01/26/2012 at 5:36 am
Alexandra
I totally agree with your suggestion to Google your problem. I’m the youngest person at my office and therefore also the resident tech support officer (even though I studied journalism!). But I’ve managed to set-up a computer from scratch, connect it to our network, and solve several “this isn’t working” problems just by Googling it.
01/26/2012 at 5:48 am
Gus
Only problem with #1 is that there are times when they change stuff I once liked. I think iTunes has been a major offender there, though I’m sure there’s been others. So annoying losing features I liked or was used to. Upgrades also have similar issues. Lion really messed with the way I used Mail. So it goes…. progress.
01/26/2012 at 6:22 am
Naveeka
Ahhh number 10 was a,strike to my heart. Have been doing most of the points and yesss ended up meeting my husband 😀
Great post!
01/26/2012 at 6:40 am
lucasmangum
The nerds have taken over. I’m proud to belong to their party.
01/26/2012 at 6:51 am
jennstasy
LOL this was great reading! 😀
01/26/2012 at 6:54 am
ejhobbs
Love it! I’ve also recently learned the joys of number 1!. Go figure! 🙂
01/26/2012 at 7:10 am
the octopi
#4 is pretty much my life philosophy 🙂
01/26/2012 at 7:17 am
Parents Wanting Partners
Hahaha… so true if you read my blog about “Back-up…. Back-up…. and Back off!” (http://wp.me/p1P8AJ-3f) all the nerds would just shake their heads in disbelief. 🙂 Having said that, by reading your blog today I learned a few other things I didn’t know (e.g. LastPass), so thank you for sharing.
01/26/2012 at 7:17 am
literarykitty
This is great – I should definitely do the update thing, and you’re so right about the googling. I’m always amazed at how willing people are to post all their knowledge online like that for free.
Hooray for nerd power!
01/26/2012 at 7:19 am
Victoria-writes
Love this! I’m a huge fan of switching it off then on again 🙂
01/26/2012 at 7:24 am
Dianda
Sounds like my boyfriend talking! 🙂 great post!
01/26/2012 at 7:56 am
rtcrita
These are all great tips and advice! Most of these, I have learned over the years from finally getting over the fear of “breaking” my computer (#10) when I first started using one. My son is studying IT now in college and took many computer classes in High School, which has helped me, also.
And #9 is a basic I learned right off the bat. Sometimes, I get emails that say they are from me (to me) that have “junk” that I, obviously, never sent! How does that happen?
01/26/2012 at 8:09 am
schadenfreudeh
The last scene with my phone before I left for travelling? “Here make it do” as I put my phone in the hands of my never-let-me-down nerd friend. God Bless the Nerds!
01/26/2012 at 8:19 am
johndscripts
True story: very close to reality 😉
01/26/2012 at 8:20 am
gelalex
Reblogged this on Life in a Trashy Soap Opera.
01/26/2012 at 8:24 am
JuJuBee
oh,help…I think I might be a nerd! These are all the things I gripe/nag at my hubby to make sure he does. All this time, I’ve been calling him the nerd
01/26/2012 at 8:37 am
inspirationfiles
Ha, don’t worry – I won’t tell!!
01/26/2012 at 8:43 am
Greensterous
Reblogged this on Greensterous' Page.
01/26/2012 at 8:55 am
cuttingedgecreativity
Fantastic post and great advice. A lot of it sounds common sense, and yet they can be so easily forgotten. Congratulations on getting Freshly Pressed!
01/26/2012 at 8:57 am
Katie-Girl
Great blog! It’s so cool, and I loved reading it! Congrats on making Freshly Pressed!
😀
PS: Visit my blog at http://www.meandmyquirks.wordpress.com !!
01/26/2012 at 9:15 am
TechChucker
Great article, and even better that it’s coming from a non-nerd (now that you know our secrets, though, you’ll probably be considered a nerd).
01/26/2012 at 9:18 am
lifewithblondie
Just bought my 17 year old her first laptop, and we call her Blondie for a reason, so I found myself saying “don’t be scared, its just a computer, it can’t bite you!” She said “Mom, I didn’t even set up my own Facebook, you did!” LOL
01/26/2012 at 9:25 am
slytherclawchica
Oh gosh. My boyfriend works at a tech desk and I can only imagine the times he has wanted to ask his customers “Did you click on the highly suspect link that implied doom?” Of course, were he to answer that, the answer would be “NO! FIX COMPUTER NOW; I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT!”
It’s actually amazing how often common sense will help with technology. Would you climb into the sketchy van with “free candy” on the side? No. Then why are you giving your social security number for an astrological reading?
01/26/2012 at 9:27 am
Pawan Tejwani
Reblogged this on PTejwani.
01/26/2012 at 9:39 am
Farah Ng @ Broken Penguins
Awesome list! I come from a family of programmers and I’m the only one that ended up in the (relatively) non-tech field of PR. My dad used to tell me bedtime stories using “input-output” analogies. I was the first kid on the block with Internet. Living with nerds can change your life! At the very least, it will make you a nerd. Thanks for the LastPass tip.
01/26/2012 at 9:46 am
Sascha Pfeiffer, Sophos
#10 is a little unidirectional. Never heard of a guy who had a nerderette fixing his phone in a bar. That would definetly change the course of the world and I would buy motorla/sony/samsung stock (will replace all shitty pick up lines). It would make a nice scene in a love film, too…
01/26/2012 at 9:49 am
pawsforamoment
Common knowledge all this to be fair . . . .First thing you learn at school
01/26/2012 at 10:08 am
morristownmemos by Ronnie Hammer
A tech teacher at the Apple store gave me the tip of entering his passwords in his address book. That’s a great idea for people who use different passwords for different equipment.
Ronnie
01/26/2012 at 10:14 am
Lindsey
Haha I really liked your advice. I can relate as I have several cool, but nerdy friends. 🙂
01/26/2012 at 10:14 am
gavinlarkincogitates
Interesting views, I live with some tv folk and they like to say that i say interesting things… http://gavinlarkincogitates.wordpress.com/
01/26/2012 at 10:24 am
rtd14
Thank you so much for sharing. My computer broke down three weeks ago, and I use my zip drive(s) to back up everything. I also have a dropbox account. Thanks again.
01/26/2012 at 10:31 am
N. Congo
People often make fun of nerds, but we rush to buy the latest and greatest gadgets that NERDS have invented! We should keep them inspired so that they can continue to make great cell phones.
01/26/2012 at 10:33 am
nandinistl
Reblogged this on i loves n.
01/26/2012 at 10:39 am
Andy
Erm.. excuse me – nerds don’t post things to “make them look cool”. They do it to help other people and to save other people from spending time working out a solution that has already been done. It’s called helping and sharing. It seems you benefited from this so some thanks instead of insults would probably be more appropriate.
Knowing a lot about a subject makes you an expert, not a nerd. Nerds are those who spend their down time doing the same thing as they do in their work time, and it applies in all walks of life, not just computers. Are you a PR nerd?
01/26/2012 at 10:55 am
inspirationfiles
I don’t really see “nerd” as an insult, and I certainly wasn’t using it that way. I meant it in jest, and I’m sorry if that didn’t come through for you. By the way, I’d be happy to call myself a PR nerd!
01/26/2012 at 10:40 am
Huffygirl
Wonderful suggestions Pam. It’s amazing that everyone doesn’t know about rebooting by now, although doing it 3 times is news to me. Congrats for being Freshly Pressed!
01/26/2012 at 11:14 am
MegansBeadedDesigns
Super awesome post. 🙂
01/26/2012 at 11:28 am
fmlotus22
Reblogged this on Life Is Beautiful.
01/26/2012 at 11:45 am
kweenb
Reblogged this on Kween and commented:
Reblogged in honor of my brother. 🙂
01/26/2012 at 11:51 am
kitchenmudge
A couple of years ago, I wrote the following for the noobs among my acquaintances. It’s geared toward Windows XP, but much of it is applicable elsewhere:
http://kitchenmudge.wordpress.com/2011/01/03/keeping-it-simple-not-stupid/
01/26/2012 at 11:59 am
j2kun
The hardcore nerds would say the opposite of restarting: if you restart, that means you don’t understand the problem and it will come back. The best of the best just leave their computers on, and only restart when upgrading their operating system.
01/26/2012 at 12:06 pm
Grace
lol! I love it. I live with a nerd too and I have learned much of the same. don’t be afraid of it is number one! it can most always be undone!
01/26/2012 at 12:09 pm
zorgor
I’m a nerd and I just want to say thank you for compiling such a good, concise list of all the usual advice! 🙂
01/26/2012 at 12:15 pm
THINK DIFFERENT FOR A CHANGE | HARD DRIVE 321
[…] Knowledge is freedom. […]
01/26/2012 at 12:23 pm
Linsey
Reblogged this on ELIs Blog.
01/26/2012 at 12:53 pm
Constance V. Walden
Thanks for sharing this great blog. Connie
http://7thandvine.wordpress.com/
01/26/2012 at 1:01 pm
sarahbromley1970
Great advice, thanks
01/26/2012 at 1:34 pm
Paul
I work in an office where nobody does updates. I am constantly updating computers for these people, which is not my job. Though, I do get a fuzzy feeling afterwards. Almost like I made things right in the world again.
01/26/2012 at 1:38 pm
inspirationfiles
HA! I love that.
01/26/2012 at 1:39 pm
My Personal IT « What Jess Knows
[…] blog I recently read about a woman that lives with a nerd and has adapted his ways. Check out the “Inspiration Files” and see how your nerd side can grow. Copy/Paste Cheater:TwitterFacebookStumbleUponLike this:LikeBe […]
01/26/2012 at 2:03 pm
Rai
I like to tell people that my ethnicity is nerd.
01/26/2012 at 5:29 pm
inspirationfiles
Love it!!! Do they make a check box for that?
01/26/2012 at 2:09 pm
socialshan
You are preaching to the chori! My boyfriend is the ultimate computer nerd and IT professional, I can totally relate. Great post!
01/26/2012 at 2:24 pm
amyinthemirror
such a great post!
They are so true, i guess reading it brought out my nerdy side. I do all of them things that you list and im always on my laptop playing games and being a general geek. haha
01/26/2012 at 2:58 pm
DB@0to60reviews
As a nerd, I am very pleased to see such a bounty of great information. I myself have suffered at the hands of the crashing computer, quite conveniently at the end of an enormous (and unsaved) essay – a nightmare I wouldn’t want to have again… Thanks for this!
01/26/2012 at 2:59 pm
Dace
as a nerd, I am proud of you. Only if all of the non technical people read and comprehend this. I would just want to elaborate on – if you do not know what that is, do not click. It applies to anything even thought it looks familiar or sounds familiar. Pop ups are “no GOOD”. UPDATES can be done manually or be preconfigured.
You know how it goes – it looks like chocolate but you are not sure. Well, do not put everything that looks like chocolate in your mouth
01/26/2012 at 5:28 pm
inspirationfiles
Oooh, good analogy!
01/26/2012 at 3:14 pm
Louise Bowman
Looooove this! Great reading! xx
http://cornishbunting.wordpress.com
01/26/2012 at 4:06 pm
itspauljohnson
As a nerd reading this, I can wholeheartedly say your friend has taught you well 🙂 These are the cornerstones of digital life. If only everyone would do this!
01/26/2012 at 4:07 pm
tedthelen
I agree on not clicking on something you don’t know what it is can lead to trouble with a virus.
01/26/2012 at 4:11 pm
bohannajennifer
Haha…funny…i am not a nerd and unfortunately not following 3 (yet…soon) but restarting does solve everything 🙂
01/26/2012 at 4:39 pm
sensiblesusan
Wow! I’m the wrong kind of nerd, because I hardly to any of those things! Very sensible….
01/26/2012 at 5:00 pm
Amy
I should do 3 more often, I really should. It just happens to be convenient that I have a coupon for (more!) free space on DropBox. I really need to send this list to my mum though, for the sake of 10. I’m still not sure if she knows how to email attachments… NERD OUT!
01/26/2012 at 6:03 pm
xf
I also live with a nerd….the frustration on his face when I explain that “it’s broken!” is priceless.
backupbackupbackup!
01/26/2012 at 6:09 pm
newtechiegirl
Loved the article, and being new to technology myself all of them ring true for your most nerdiest of nerds or your clueless of users.
01/26/2012 at 6:10 pm
newtechiegirl
Reblogged this on newtechiegirl and commented:
Found a great article on technology, and some good tips for anyone that is intimidated by it. From all of my experience up to this point they all ring true, and will definitely help to prevent a lot of frustrations people have with technology by just trying one or two of them. Enjoy!
01/26/2012 at 6:40 pm
Kyna
Thank you for publishing this list. As a closet-nerd, so many of my friends ignore these simple ideas! If only everyone would do this… excuse me while I go check out some new apps…
01/26/2012 at 6:44 pm
cestlavie22
Haha that update one really made me laugh! The IT guy at my work is always on my case for it. I generally push it off and hes always at my desk going “did you do that update yet”- yes IT man I WILL get to it…or will I 😉
01/26/2012 at 8:02 pm
sainikbiswas
If all my friends read your post at least half of my problems would be solved. Really cool tips. Even nerds forget to abide by these rules sometimes.
01/26/2012 at 8:05 pm
nell's dish
I’ve also learned a lot from my nerd husband and am much better off for it. 🙂 Cheers to nerds.
01/26/2012 at 8:15 pm
truthspew
If you really want to do a thorough backup get a copy of Macrium Reflect. It uses the Windows Shadow Copy services so you can backup the machine while you’re using it. It does an ENTIRE disk image. Saved my bacon a couple of times to be honest.
01/26/2012 at 8:34 pm
thoughtsportal
Nice little post, fun to read! Keep it coming. 🙂
01/26/2012 at 9:45 pm
Red Toenails
I love nerds.
01/26/2012 at 10:04 pm
Healthy Freedom
Great post!
01/26/2012 at 10:53 pm
bluepearlgirl's world
Reblogged this on bluepearlgirl's world and commented:
Good advice… follow it!
01/27/2012 at 12:52 am
IamNotDefined
Great advice!
01/27/2012 at 1:36 am
erinlizzie
Fantastic post – I have lots of nerdy friends and this is among the best advice I’ve gotten – they’re handy to have around!
01/27/2012 at 2:13 am
Sharp
I think you’ll love my blog… nerdy all around 😀
01/27/2012 at 2:43 am
mushykitty
I agree! And this is freakin’ awesome! Go nerds!
Sigh… i couldn’t say more. Just worth 5 stars and more.
01/27/2012 at 2:48 am
gabstar88
Reblogged this on GabStars Fight to Financial Freedom and commented:
Fixing computers costs money – these helpful tips keeps you out of having to $$$$ for help with your computer
01/27/2012 at 3:57 am
cynthiarmstrongblog
Love it! Please ask your husband for me the best software for setting up websites – I’m guessing it’s specific to what you want it to do, but I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it 🙂
01/27/2012 at 5:27 am
12 DIVERSE BLOGGERS VOICES – WORDPRESS COMMUNITY BLOGGERS – 27.1.12 « Horiwood's Blog
[…] Top Ten Things A Nerd Has Taught Me – Inspiration Files […]
01/27/2012 at 6:11 am
amiarting
its cool!!
http://www.amiarting.wordpress.com
01/27/2012 at 7:57 am
purplepolitico
Everything you have said is so true, and things I learned dating a nerd for 5 years
01/27/2012 at 8:01 am
evilrobert
Oh brilliant. These are things I end up saying often at work to no avail. Well done. (And Dropbox? Total savior tool.)
01/27/2012 at 8:39 am
inspirationfiles
I agree – it’s saved me more than once!
01/27/2012 at 8:17 am
Justin Zamora Rodriguez
Very informative blog. Thank you very much! I will now not think of mistakes in a negative way. I might find my future wife.
01/27/2012 at 8:55 am
Irwan Juanda
I am so number 5, now you mentioned it, i think i should do something. Thanks. 😀
01/27/2012 at 10:18 am
theeyeoffaith
Great post!! We feel we’ve learned how to become a more practical nerd from your post. You’ve given us a new checklist to follow!
What seems like common sense can be easily forgotten in our modern world of convenience, so we really value the tips of a Nerd 😛
The Eye
http://theeyeoffaith.com
01/27/2012 at 10:35 am
annewoodman
As a person who once had the Help Desk folks at work come in and laugh at me because the computer wasn’t turned on, I have learned a lot from living with techie types, too. Now, my 11-year-old son is my Help Desk and has taught me more than I ever could have figured out on my own. He is now never allowed to move away from home. ; )
01/27/2012 at 10:47 am
The Sandwich Lady
Too funny! My husband and I are both non-techies (I am nonetheless still nerdy but not techie-nerdy) and we were both blowing a gasket this morning over a router that would not work. We finally got through to a wonderful nerd at the Apple hotline who told us simply to unplug it. Thanks for your checklist of elegantly simple solutions.
01/27/2012 at 11:36 am
misteredie1
Reblogged this on Karl Edie – Principal and Teacher and commented:
Ha! Good post – great ideas about how to deal with the tech in your life.
01/27/2012 at 11:39 am
misteredie1
Nice one – see what you would have missed if you hadn’t gotten to know the nerd? You might still be *gasp* skipping those updates.
01/27/2012 at 12:15 pm
engrnick
yea so true.. specially the last one..
01/27/2012 at 12:25 pm
dismaswibisono
Reblogged this on dismaswibisono and commented:
🙂
01/27/2012 at 12:25 pm
clgwrites
Reblogged this on clgwrites and commented:
Finally. The solution to my everyday tech problems!
01/27/2012 at 12:26 pm
clgwrites
I feel like keeping this list as a sticky note on my computer. such helpful little reminders. awesome.
01/27/2012 at 1:11 pm
Jbot
Nerds can also make very generous lov–I mean people. Sometimes.
01/27/2012 at 1:37 pm
inspirationfiles
HA!!
01/27/2012 at 1:18 pm
thisthingwecall
As a tech guy, I agree that it’s really a great list. I should post it for my office and save myself a lot of time! : )
01/27/2012 at 1:24 pm
plofkop
Reblogged this on Anneke's blog.
01/27/2012 at 1:57 pm
brandimiller
Great tips! So very true.
Regarding number 9, I run into a lot of people who won’t click on links that ARE alright because they’re scared it will be something bad, but still end up getting viruses because they do stupid things. It is always surprising to me, but I guess to some people it comes naturally, and others have no idea what they’re doing. haha. I can’t guarantee I’ll never fall for a scam, but the majority of the time I can tell at a glance whether something is dangerous or not.
01/27/2012 at 2:15 pm
poetcolette
Oh! I just realized I live with a nerd, too!
01/27/2012 at 4:13 pm
Dave
I’d like to add to #8 on your list some anti-virus tools people could be using instead of Norton or McAfee. Check out AVG Free or Microsoft Security Essentials. Although I’ve heard that AVG has started to suck. If you go with AVG, don’t install the LinkScanner… On second thought, just get Microsoft Security Essentials 🙂
01/27/2012 at 8:47 pm
katiejonesoneword
I love the title of your post: dating nerd boys has always paid off for me, though my nerd boy is much more like an encyclopedia of random (but important) information. My whole college career I was friends with all the Computer Science/Engineer Honors students – never had a computer problem those guys couldn’t fix! Great list 🙂
01/28/2012 at 1:39 am
moarstuff
Reblogged this on moarstuff and commented:
If you’re wondering if you should be afraid on technology, you should read this post. Another thing you’ll want to know is that you should back up your stuff on a regular basis.
01/28/2012 at 7:03 am
Don’t be scared | Almut Eisenträger
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01/28/2012 at 2:41 pm
gaurangp62
I like this: ‘The truth is that it’s pretty hard to do anything that would permanently damage a computer or phone. ” and would like that this fact spreads to many, very fast.
01/28/2012 at 3:14 pm
Gadget
Reblogged this on Gods Gadget and commented:
Good points for the non-nerds with gadgets to know.
01/28/2012 at 3:57 pm
bobbyduffdesign
hi please check out my blog http://tiny.cc/uyl3l
01/29/2012 at 4:05 am
misspinkles
What a great post!
Thanks for some very helpful tips 🙂
01/29/2012 at 5:51 pm
muyosanspeaks
I totally love this. This has actually confirmed that I am a nerd!
01/30/2012 at 7:22 am
Lanre
I’m really guilty of #1 and #9. Pushing updates is what I do best…lol and I guess that’s why my laptop proves stubborn sometimes. I pretty inquisitive so I have a criminal record with #9.
Well, I’m glad I obey most of your rules here and maybe I’ll do an update because right now, my laptop is freezing.
01/30/2012 at 8:03 am
takemyreview
that is a nice post
01/30/2012 at 1:38 pm
anujak31391
“When in doubt, restart”…I like and I agree completely! 🙂
01/30/2012 at 1:45 pm
@holdencalgary
Haha.. so true… #4 I find myself saying everyday. GOOGLE IT! Great post. Congrats on Freshly Pressed.
01/31/2012 at 4:50 am
Agent Charlie
Reblogged this on Agent Charlie.
01/31/2012 at 5:18 am
metoo
Migrated to Mac last year.. Will never leave. I follow @appadvice on twitter. everyday they post a list of apps that have gone free.. sometimes I find very useful apps that are free for a day or so, or on special occasions. very useful. Completely agree with you about all the points..
Hate people who won’t google. I think they are just lazy.
01/31/2012 at 8:53 am
inspirationfiles
Great tip on @appadvice – I’m going to follow them now!
01/31/2012 at 6:53 pm
corpussterni
Great post, and its all so true! I speak from the same experience of having hab a nerd at ones side 😉
02/01/2012 at 5:49 am
Gene Doronila
Great post!
I remember the dys of doing IT assistance and almost always told everyone to turn it off and on again.
Works like a charm!
02/01/2012 at 6:36 am
hamzahramadhan93
Reblogged this on whatiknowtoday and commented:
after reading t, I dont have to live with a nerd to know the IT life. thanks!
02/03/2012 at 1:20 pm
7theaven
Well I’ll answer in points too:
1. Really nice tips
2. Good post overall
3. When in doubt restart from point 1
LOL
Good post
02/03/2012 at 11:03 pm
Kalon Willis
This is a great well written post! We all love nerds, they are everywhere. For the tech nerds check out this blog for great information on the latest technology, how to buy them, and more!
ElectroniConnectionblog.com
Thank you!
02/09/2012 at 10:22 pm
iThula
Reblogged this on iThula and commented:
I couldn’t have said it better
02/11/2012 at 5:58 am
raedselim
great post esp. for a nerd like me 😀
02/11/2012 at 3:59 pm
Mind-over-Meh
Reblogged this on Supersecretninjayo's Blog and commented:
Cosign..
02/18/2012 at 11:27 pm
hotelnerd
Googling stuff is the best thing ever. More then once it’s made me look like a genius at work. The answers are out there, and it doesn’t take fancy web-fu usually you just type the actual question you’re asking into Google and BAM! There’s the answer.
02/26/2012 at 12:31 pm
ataraxiphile
Nerdastic!
05/20/2012 at 9:31 pm
Lina
Great post!….just love the IT field…thanks for the tips