Let’s face it—most of us use our computers and phones every day without realizing just how much they can really do. Sure, we browse the web, stream videos, and answer emails—but there are a ton of hidden features and clever shortcuts waiting to make your life easier (and more fun).
In this post, we’ve rounded up 10 awesome tech facts and computer hacks that are super easy to try. Whether you’re a total tech newbie or the go-to IT person in your friend group, there’s something here to surprise you.
10 Fun Tech Facts and Computer Hacks You Probably Didn’t Know
1. Instantly Lock Your Computer
Need to step away from your screen for a minute? Lock your computer in seconds to keep your info safe from curious eyes.
- Windows: Press Windows Key + L
- Mac: Press Control + Command + Q
It’s a small move with big security benefits—especially if you work in a shared space.
2. Use the Spacebar to Scroll Through Pages
This one’s simple but surprisingly satisfying. When you’re on a long webpage, just press the spacebar to scroll down a chunk at a time. Need to scroll back up? Use Shift + Spacebar.
It’s a smooth way to browse without touching your mouse.
3. Reopen Closed Browser Tabs Like Magic
We’ve all accidentally closed a tab mid-task. Next time, save yourself the panic and press:
- Ctrl + Shift + T (Windows)
- Cmd + Shift + T (Mac)
It instantly brings back the last closed tab—and you can repeat it to open even more previously closed ones.
4. Access Emojis Right from Your Keyboard
No more Googling emojis or using your phone to copy and paste them. Just open your computer’s built-in emoji menu:
- Windows: Press Windows Key + . (period)
- Mac: Press Ctrl + Cmd + Space
Perfect for emails, social posts, or just spicing up your to-do list.
5. The QWERTY Keyboard Has a Quirky Past
Here’s a fun fact: the QWERTY layout we all use today was designed in the 1870s to slow people down. That’s right—it was made to prevent typewriter jams by spreading out commonly used letters.
It’s stuck around ever since, even though we’ve long moved past mechanical typewriters.
6. Zoom In (and Out) Anywhere
Squinting at a tiny font on a webpage or PDF? Zoom in instantly:
- Ctrl + Plus (+) to zoom in
- Ctrl + Minus (-) to zoom out
- Ctrl + 0 resets to normal
On a Mac, just swap Ctrl for Cmd. Works like a charm in most browsers and apps.
7. Launch Task Manager the Fast Way
If your computer is acting up or something’s frozen, jump straight into Task Manager:
- Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
- Mac: Press Cmd + Option + Esc
This quick shortcut saves you time and gives you control over what’s running (or crashing).
8. Play Hidden Games in Google
Google has some fun Easter eggs built into Search. Try these:
- Search “Google Snake” or “Google Pac-Man” to play right in your browser.
- Offline in Chrome? Hit the spacebar when the dinosaur appears to launch a simple jumping game.
Because even tech pros deserve a coffee-break game now and then.
9. Scan Documents with Your Phone
You don’t need a bulky scanner to digitize documents. Just use your phone!
- On iPhone: Open Notes > New Note > Tap the camera icon > “Scan Documents”
- On Android: Use the Google Drive app > Tap the “+” > “Scan”
It’s quick, clean, and great for receipts, contracts, or handwritten notes.
10. Repurpose the Caps Lock Key
Let’s be real—when was the last time you needed to type in ALL CAPS? You can remap the Caps Lock key to something way more useful, like another Ctrl, Esc, or even a shortcut launcher.
Use free tools like:
- SharpKeys (Windows)
- Karabiner (Mac)
A small tweak that makes a big difference in productivity.
Final Thoughts
From hidden keyboard shortcuts to fun browser games, your devices are packed with cool features just waiting to be discovered. These tech tips aren’t just neat—they can help you work smarter, browse faster, and impress your friends while you’re at it.
So go ahead, try one (or all) of these today—and unlock a little extra power in your digital life.
