Switching between Windows & Mac
Keyboard differences
Win10:Use the ![]() |
OSX: Use the ![]() |
ProTip: The Alt key on a Windows keyboard & the Command key on a Mac keyboard do many similar functions and are located in matching spots on either side of the spacebar.
Where is the main menu and shut down or restart
Win10: Click ![]() |
OSX: Click the ![]() |
Minimizing, restoring and moving windows
Win10: Each window has minimise, restore and close buttons in the top right corner.
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OSX: Each window has minimise, restore and close buttons in the top left corner.
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ProTip: Use Alt-Tab to shuffle through running programs.
How to name search for settings, files, software etc.
Win10: It’s called Search Box or Search Bar next to the Start Button. Type “control panel”, “settings” or something more specific like “printer” or the name of program you want to launch.
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OSX: It’s called Spotlight. Click the Magnifying glass icon on the top right of the Extras menu. Spotlight will launch. Search “system”, “settings” or something more specific like “printer” or the name of the application you want to launch.
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Where to find general system information
Win10: ![]() |
OSX: ![]() |
Multitasking
Win10: The Task Bar along the bottom of the screen will have an icon for each program running. | OSX: The Dock along the bottom of the screen displays icons of each application running with a little black dot beneath it. |
ProTip: Add your favourite software to your Dock or Task Bar. By right clicking on it’s icon for options to add it.
Managing folders and files
Win10: Use ![]() |
OSX: Use ![]() ProTip: Finder is always running, click the icon or your desktop background to see the finder menu. |
How to find and start installed software
Win10: ![]()
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OSX: ![]() ProTip: Some OSX system applications are in an Applications sub-folder called Utilities. |
To find more information on files and folders
Win10: Right-click on a file or folder and select Properties. | OSX: Right-click on a file or folder and select Get Info. |
How to find and install new software
Win10: ![]() |
OSX: ![]() |
How to run updates
Win10: ![]() |
OSX: ![]() |
Terminology
Win10
Start menu Task bar Settings/Control Panel Recycle Properties Shortcut File Explorer Programs Windows Administrative Tool |
OSX
Apple menu Dock System Preferences Trash Get Info Alias Finder Applications Utilities |
Download this tip as a PDF: Tip 94 – Switching between Windows & Mac (1MB)