Lesson #3: FINDER

What the heck is the "Finder" and how do I find it?

The "Finder" is another term for your desktop. It is the default view you see right after your computer starts up. Consider the Finder as your 'home base.' This is where you will start from and where you will end. The Finder is located in the top right corner of your screen, and looks like a little 'Mac Face'. This icon changes after you open a program. Think of the Finder as your guide to where you are and what program you're working with. See pictures below:

Which view is your computer in right now, icon-only or expanded view? Practice switching between the two Finder views.

After you open various programs (AppleWorks, MS Word, etc.) the Finder becomes a valuable tool. It lets you know if you are in 'desktop view' (aka "Default View") or if you are working with an application. Notice how the Finder view changes after Internet Explorer is open.

Look at the pictures below. The Finder shows that Internet Explorer is open because it's listed in the Finder AND it has a checkmark next to it. Dragging down to another program will change what application is currently open.

In this example, FOUR programs are currently running, and I am moving between Internet Explorer and FirstClass. The checkmark will move to FirstClass AND the Finder icon will change.

Along with the icons changing according to what application is open, the menu options along the top of the screen change, too. Each application has its own set of menu options available. Some items, such as FILE, EDIT, and HELP are available in ALL programs, but others are specific to the application.

In the examples below, the unique menu options are underlined in blue. The Finder will help you understand what applications are open, and what menu options are available with those applications. Take some time to explore the pull-down menu options on your computer, and see how the choices change when you are working with various applications.

Watch a movie about the Finder! CLICK HERE! (1:17)

Think you've got it? Take a short QUIZ to test your knowledge.