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Practical How-To Brief

30 useful things to do in Word, Excel, Windows, iPhone, and Android

Produced September 19, 2026 · 6:02 AM CDT

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WORD

WORD

Add a footnote for a source or explanation

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Footnotes keep a source or side explanation close to the page where it is mentioned. Word numbers them and keeps the note linked to the reference mark.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Place the insertion point after the sentence that needs a note.
  2. Select References > Insert Footnote.
  3. Type the note at the bottom of the page.
  4. Double-click the reference mark to return to the sentence.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: A numbered reference appears in the text and a matching note appears at the bottom of the page.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Word renumbers later footnotes automatically when you add or remove one.
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WORD

Change line spacing in selected paragraphs

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Line spacing can make a handout easier to read or help a letter fit cleanly on one page. Apply it only to the paragraphs that need the change.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Select the paragraphs.
  2. Select Home > Line and Paragraph Spacing.
  3. Choose 1.0, 1.15, 1.5, or 2.0.
  4. Inspect the selected paragraphs.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The selected paragraphs use the chosen distance between lines.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Paragraph spacing before or after is a separate setting from line spacing.
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WORD

Alphabetize a typed list

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Word can alphabetize a list of names or places without retyping it. Each entry should be in its own paragraph.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Select the complete list.
  2. Select Home > Sort.
  3. Under Sort by, choose Paragraphs.
  4. Under Type, choose Text.
  5. Choose Ascending.
  6. Select OK.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The list is rearranged from A to Z.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: Sorting changes the list order; use Ctrl+Z immediately if the result is not what you expected.
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WORD

Place a DRAFT watermark behind the text

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

A watermark marks a document as a draft without covering its main wording. Word places the faint label behind the page content.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Select Design > Watermark.
  2. Choose DRAFT from the gallery.
  3. Open File > Print to inspect the preview.
  4. Return to the document after checking it.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: A faint DRAFT label appears behind the text on the document pages.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Select Design > Watermark > Remove Watermark when the document becomes final.
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WORD

Format part of a page in two columns

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Columns can make a short newsletter section easier to scan. Selecting the text first limits the layout change to that passage.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Select the paragraphs to format.
  2. Select Layout > Columns.
  3. Choose Two.
  4. Inspect where Word inserted the section breaks.
  5. Save the document.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The selected text flows down the left column and then continues in the right column.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Choose Layout > Columns > One to return the selected section to a single column.
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EXCEL

EXCEL

Keep headings visible while scrolling

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Freeze Panes keeps headings visible in a long worksheet. This procedure applies to current Excel desktop versions on Windows.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Select the cell below the rows and to the right of the columns to keep visible.
  2. Select View > Freeze Panes.
  3. Select Freeze Panes.
  4. Scroll down and across to test the result.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The rows above and columns left of the selected cell remain visible while the sheet scrolls.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Select View > Freeze Panes > Unfreeze Panes to reverse the change.
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EXCEL

Highlight duplicate entries before removing any

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Highlighting duplicates lets you review repeated names or numbers without deleting anything. It is a safer first step than Remove Duplicates.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Select the cells to check.
  2. Select Home > Conditional Formatting.
  3. Select Highlight Cells Rules > Duplicate Values.
  4. Choose a visible format.
  5. Select OK.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: Repeated values in the selected range are highlighted.
WATCH OUT: WATCH OUT: Highlighting is reversible formatting; Remove Duplicates permanently deletes repeated rows.
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EXCEL

Split combined names with Flash Fill

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Flash Fill recognizes a pattern from an example, such as extracting first names from a full-name column. Review its suggestions because patterns can be misunderstood.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Place a new column beside the combined names.
  2. Type the desired first result beside the first name.
  3. Start typing the second result.
  4. Select Data > Flash Fill if Excel does not fill automatically.
  5. Review several filled results.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: Excel completes the new column by following the example pattern.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Flash Fill creates text values, not formulas; later changes to the original names do not update the results.
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EXCEL

Sort a list by two columns

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

A two-level sort can group records by category and alphabetize names within each group. Keep every column in the selection so rows stay intact.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Select one cell in the data range.
  2. Select Data > Sort.
  3. Choose the first column in Sort by.
  4. Select Add Level.
  5. Choose the second column in Then by.
  6. Select OK.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: Rows are grouped by the first column and ordered by the second column inside each group.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: If Excel asks, choose Expand the selection so related row data stays together.
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EXCEL

Give a cell range a memorable name

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

A named range lets a formula use a word such as Prices instead of coordinates such as B2:B12. This can make a beginner workbook easier to understand.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Select the cells to name.
  2. Select the Name box to the left of the formula bar.
  3. Type a short name without spaces.
  4. Press Enter.
  5. Select another cell.
  6. Type =SUM(Prices), replacing Prices with your name, and press Enter.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The formula calculates using the named range.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Names cannot contain spaces; use an underscore when needed.
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WINDOWS

WINDOWS

Arrange open windows with Snap Layouts

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Snap Layouts places two or more windows in a tidy arrangement. It is useful when following instructions beside a practice document.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open two applications.
  2. Point to the Maximize button on the first window.
  3. Choose a layout position.
  4. Select the second application for the remaining position.
  5. Adjust the divider if needed.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: Both applications remain visible in the chosen arrangement.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Press Windows key+Z to open Snap Layouts from the keyboard.
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WINDOWS

Use Night light for a warmer evening display

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Night light reduces blue tones and makes the screen warmer after dark. The setting is reversible and can follow a schedule.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open Start > Settings.
  2. Select System > Display.
  3. Turn on Night light.
  4. Select Night light to open its settings.
  5. Adjust Strength.
  6. Set a schedule if desired.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The display takes on a warmer color while Night light is active.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Night light changes the screen appearance, not the colors stored in photos or documents.
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WINDOWS

Start a timed focus session

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

A focus session creates a timed work period and can reduce interruptions. Windows 11 places the control in the Clock app and notification center.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open Start and search for Clock.
  2. Open Clock and select Focus sessions.
  3. Choose a session length.
  4. Select Start focus session.
  5. Work until the timer ends.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: A countdown runs and Windows limits selected distractions during the session.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Review Settings > System > Focus to choose which focus behaviors are used.
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WINDOWS

Rename the PC with a recognizable name

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

A clear device name helps identify the correct computer in account and sharing lists. The change requires a restart to finish.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open Start > Settings.
  2. Select System > About.
  3. Select Rename this PC.
  4. Enter a short recognizable name without unusual punctuation.
  5. Select Next.
  6. Select Restart now or Restart later.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: After the restart, Windows displays the new device name.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: Save open work before restarting the computer.
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iPhone

IPHONE

Scan a paper document into Notes

Apple iPhone User Guide · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Notes can capture a paper form or receipt as a clean multipage scan. The result remains inside the note and can be shared as a document.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open Notes and create or open a note.
  2. Select the Attachment button.
  3. Select Scan Documents.
  4. Position the page inside the camera view.
  5. Capture additional pages if needed.
  6. Select Save.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The scanned pages appear together inside the note.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Use a contrasting surface and steady light so the page edges are detected accurately.
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IPHONE

Hide selected photos from the main library

Apple iPhone User Guide · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

The Hidden album removes selected pictures from the main Library view. It is protected by authentication on current iOS versions but is not a separate backup.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open Photos.
  2. Select the photo or video.
  3. Select the More button.
  4. Select Hide.
  5. Confirm Hide Photo or Hide Video.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The item leaves the main Library view and appears in the Hidden album.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: Hidden items remain on the iPhone and in synced Photos; hiding is not deletion or backup.
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IPHONE

Schedule a text message to send later

Apple iPhone User Guide · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Send Later can prepare a message for a future time in supported recent iOS versions. It is useful for reminders that should arrive during waking hours.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open Messages and select a conversation.
  2. Select the Add button.
  3. Select Send Later.
  4. Choose the date and time.
  5. Type the message.
  6. Select Send.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The message appears in the conversation with its scheduled delivery time.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: Review the recipient and scheduled time before sending; feature availability depends on the installed iOS version.
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IPHONE

Choose which controls appear in Control Center

Apple iPhone User Guide · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Control Center can keep frequently used tools within one swipe. Current iOS versions let you add, move, and resize supported controls.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open Control Center.
  2. Touch and hold an empty area.
  3. Select Add a Control.
  4. Choose a control.
  5. Drag it to the desired position.
  6. Touch an empty area to finish.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The chosen control appears in Control Center.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: The editing method varies on older iOS versions, where controls may be managed in Settings > Control Center.
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IPHONE

Add an emergency contact to Medical ID

Apple iPhone User Guide · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Medical ID can show emergency contacts and health details from the Lock Screen. Only include information you are comfortable making available in an emergency.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open the Health app.
  2. Select your profile picture.
  3. Select Medical ID > Edit.
  4. Select add emergency contact.
  5. Choose a contact and relationship.
  6. Select Done.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The contact appears in Medical ID and can be reached from the emergency screen when enabled.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: Medical ID information may be viewable without unlocking the iPhone.
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Android

ANDROID

Find a misplaced Android phone

Google Help · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Find Hub can locate, ring, or secure a signed-in Android device. Location and network availability affect what it can show.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. On another device, open android.com/find.
  2. Sign in with the Google Account used on the missing phone.
  3. Select the missing device.
  4. Review its location or last known status.
  5. Select Play sound when the phone is probably nearby.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The phone rings for several minutes or its available location appears on the map.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: Erase device permanently removes data and should be reserved for a phone you do not expect to recover.
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ANDROID

Use two apps on screen at the same time

Google Help · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Split screen lets you reference one app while working in another. Support varies by app and device maker.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open the first app.
  2. Open the Recent apps view.
  3. Select the app icon above its preview.
  4. Select Split screen.
  5. Choose the second app.
  6. Drag the divider to adjust their sizes.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: Both supported apps remain visible on the screen.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Samsung wording may differ, and some apps do not support split screen.
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ANDROID

Share a nearby file with Quick Share

Google Help · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Quick Share transfers a photo or file to a nearby compatible device without emailing it. Both devices must have sharing available.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open the item to share.
  2. Select Share > Quick Share.
  3. Choose the nearby receiving device.
  4. Wait for the recipient to accept.
  5. Keep the devices nearby until transfer completes.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The receiving device reports that the file was received.
WATCH OUT: WATCH OUT: Confirm the displayed device name before sharing private material.
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ANDROID

Review recently dismissed notifications

Google Help · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Notification history can reveal an alert that was dismissed too quickly. The feature must be turned on before it can collect history.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Notifications.
  3. Select Notification history.
  4. Turn on Use notification history.
  5. Return later to review dismissed alerts.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: Recently dismissed and recent notifications appear on the history screen.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Menu wording varies by manufacturer, and history cannot recover alerts from before it was enabled.
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ANDROID

Add emergency information to the Lock Screen

Google Help · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Emergency information can help a responder identify a contact or important medical fact without unlocking the phone. Only add details you are comfortable exposing.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Open the Safety app or Settings > Safety & emergency.
  2. Select Your info or Medical information.
  3. Enter the information you want available.
  4. Add an emergency contact.
  5. Enable showing emergency information when locked if prompted.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The chosen information is available from the emergency screen.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: Emergency details may be visible to anyone holding the locked phone.
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Quick Tips

WORD · QUICK TIP

Insert a date that can update automatically

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

In Word for Microsoft 365 desktop on Windows, an updating date is useful for a reusable letter or meeting form. Word can refresh the field when the document opens or prints.

QUICK STEPS

  1. Place the insertion point where the date belongs.
  2. Select Insert > Date & Time.
  3. Choose a date format and select Update automatically.
  4. Select OK.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The formatted date appears and can update when the document is used later.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Leave Update automatically cleared when the date must remain a permanent record.
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EXCEL · QUICK TIP

Test a condition with a simple IF formula

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

IF can display one result when a condition is true and another when it is false. A simple example can label an amount as Over Budget or OK.

QUICK STEPS

  1. Enter a budget limit in A2 and an actual amount in B2.
  2. Select C2.
  3. Type =IF(B2>A2,"Over Budget","OK").
  4. Press Enter.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: C2 displays Over Budget when B2 exceeds A2; otherwise it displays OK.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Text results inside a formula must be enclosed in quotation marks.
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WINDOWS · QUICK TIP

Paste an earlier item from Clipboard history

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Clipboard history can retrieve more than the most recently copied item. Windows stores supported copied text and images after the feature is turned on.

QUICK STEPS

  1. Press Windows key+V and select Turn on if prompted.
  2. Copy two short pieces of text.
  3. Press Windows key+V again.
  4. Select the earlier item.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The selected earlier clipboard item is pasted into the active text field.
WATCH OUT: WATCH OUT: Avoid copying passwords or private information to a shared computer clipboard.
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WINDOWS · QUICK TIP

Dismiss every window except the active one

Microsoft Support · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Title-bar window shake minimizes other windows and leaves the one you are using visible. Repeating the motion restores them.

QUICK STEPS

  1. Select and hold the active window title bar.
  2. Move the pointer quickly left and right.
  3. Release the title bar.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: Other open windows minimize while the active window stays visible.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: If nothing happens, open Settings > System > Multitasking and turn on Title bar window shake.
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IPHONE · QUICK TIP

Lock a private note

Apple iPhone User Guide · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

A locked note protects selected content with the iPhone passcode or a separate Notes password. Locking a note does not hide its title from the notes list.

QUICK STEPS

  1. Open the note.
  2. Select the More button > Lock.
  3. Follow the prompt to choose the locking method.
  4. Select the Lock button to close the note.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: The note content is hidden until it is authenticated.
USEFUL TO KNOW: WATCH OUT: Do not forget a separate Notes password; Apple cannot recover access to notes locked with a forgotten custom password.
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ANDROID · QUICK TIP

Turn on Live Caption for playing audio

Google Help · Accessed September 19, 2026 · Source

Live Caption displays speech from supported audio on the device. It can help in a quiet room or when hearing dialogue is difficult.

QUICK STEPS

  1. Press a volume button.
  2. Select More in the volume controls if needed.
  3. Select Live Caption.
  4. Play a supported video or audio clip.
WHAT YOU SHOULD SEE: A movable caption box displays detected speech.
USEFUL TO KNOW: USEFUL TO KNOW: Device, language, and feature support vary; captions are automatically generated and may contain errors.
READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE →↑ Back to contents

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