Top Chromebook tips and tricks for beginners

If you’re new to Chromebooks or looking to get the most out of your device, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, we’ll dive into some of the best tips and tricks to enhance your Chromebook experience. Whether you’re a productivity enthusiast or just exploring the capabilities of your Chromebook, these insights will help you unlock its full potential.
To make things even easier, I’ve embedded a video by David from Dignity, who shares his top Chromebook tips after using his Galaxy Chromebook Go for a year. Watch the video below for a visual walkthrough, and then read on for a detailed breakdown of the tips.

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Table of Contents

• Accessing Microsoft Office on a Chromebook

• Customizing Your Chromebook

• Connecting Your Android Phone to Your Chromebook

• Accessing Linux on Your Chromebook

• Using Android Apps on Your Chromebook

• Leveraging Google Assistant

• Enabling Dark Mode

• Using a VPN on Your Chromebook

• Split-Screen Feature for Multitasking

• Casting Your Chromebook to a TV

• Turning on Caps Lock

• Using Your Chromebook Offline

• Organizing Your Workspace with Virtual Desks

• Restarting Your Chromebook

• Taking Screenshots and Screen Recordings

• Using the Built-In File Manager

• Resetting Your Chromebook with Power Wash

1. Accessing Microsoft Office on a Chromebook

If you’re transitioning from a Windows environment, you might wonder how to use Microsoft Office on a Chromebook. While Chromebooks don’t natively support Microsoft Office, you can access it through Microsoft 365’s online version. Simply log in via your web browser, and you’re good to go.

Key Points:

• Use Microsoft 365 for online access to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Chromebooks are optimized for Google’s productivity suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides).

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2. Customizing Your Chromebook

Chromebooks are highly customizable. You can change wallpapers, screen savers, and more.

Steps:

• Go to Settings > Personalization.

• Choose from pre-built wallpapers or upload your own images.

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3. Connecting Your Android Phone to Your Chromebook

Thanks to Google’s ecosystem, Android phones and Chromebooks integrate seamlessly.

Features:

• View recent photos, browser tabs, and app notifications.

• Locate your phone, turn on mobile hotspots, and share internet.

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4. Accessing Linux on Your Chromebook

Since 2017, Chromebooks have supported Linux, allowing you to run desktop applications like Visual Studio Code and LibreOffice.

Steps:

• Enable Linux in Settings > Advanced > Developers.

• Install Linux-based apps for coding, productivity, and more.

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5. Using Android Apps on Your Chromebook

Access over a million Android apps via the Google Play Store. While some apps may not scale perfectly, they still offer great functionality.

Popular Apps:

• Telegram, WhatsApp, Spotify, and Twitter.

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6. Leveraging Google Assistant

Google Assistant is integrated into Chromebooks, making tasks like sending emails and controlling smart homes effortless.

How to Use:

• Click the Launcher icon or press the search key.

• Use voice commands for hands-free control.

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7. Enabling Dark Mode

Dark mode is easier on the eyes, especially at night.

Steps:

• Right-click the desktop > Set Wallpaper and Style > Choose Dark or Auto theme.

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8. Using a VPN on Your Chromebook

Chromebooks have built-in VPN support, but downloading your VPN provider’s Android app is often easier.

Steps:

• Go to Settings > Network > VPN.

• Alternatively, download the VPN app from the Google Play Store.

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9. Split-Screen Feature for Multitasking

Use two apps side by side for better productivity.

Shortcut:

• Press Alt + ] for one window and Alt + [ for the other.

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10. Casting Your Chromebook to a TV

Share your screen for presentations or movie nights.

Steps:

• Use the cast feature to connect to a smart TV.

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11. Turning on Caps Lock

Chromebooks don’t have a dedicated Caps Lock key, but you can enable it.

Shortcut:

• Press Alt + Search Key to toggle Caps Lock.

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12. Using Your Chromebook Offline

Some apps, like Google Docs, support offline mode.

Steps:

• Open Docs > Settings > Toggle Offline Mode.

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13. Organizing Your Workspace with Virtual Desks

Create separate workspaces for different tasks.

Steps:

• Press the Show Windows key > Tap the plus icon to add a new desk.

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14. Restarting Your Chromebook

Chromebooks don’t have a restart option, but you can shut it down and power it on manually.

Shortcut:

• Press the power key for 3 seconds to shut down.

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15. Taking Screenshots and Screen Recordings

Capture your screen effortlessly.

Shortcuts:

• Screenshot: Ctrl + Switch Window Key.

• Screen Recording: Ctrl + Alt + Switch Window Key.

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16. Using the Built-In File Manager

The Files app is minimalistic but powerful.

Features:

• Access Google Drive and network drives.

• Organize files into folders.

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17. Resetting Your Chromebook with Power Wash

Restore your Chromebook to factory settings.

Steps:

• Go to Settings > Advanced > Reset Settings > Power Wash.

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Final Thoughts

Chromebooks are versatile devices that can significantly boost your productivity. By leveraging these tips, you’ll be able to customize, optimize, and make the most of your Chromebook experience.

If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share the embedded video for more insights. Let us know your favorite Chromebook tip in the comments below!