Hot Software Tips How-Tos

How To: Create a wireframe or sitemap for a mobile device in OmniGraffle 5

Want to make a wireframe for something that's ultimately going to end up on an iPhone 4 or Google Android smartphone? This quick clip offers some advice. Whether you're new to the Omni Group's popular task management application or simply wish to get better acquainted with the program, you're sure to find value in this software tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look.

How To: Create and use garbage mattes in Nuke 6

In this quick clip, you'll learn how to generate a new garbage matte when working in Nuke 6. Whether you're new to the Foundry's popular node-based compositing application or a seasoned post-production professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with Nuke 6's new features, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including a detailed overview, watch this free video guide.

How To: Navigate and use the graphical user interface in Foundry's Nuke 6

Need help finding yourself around the Nuke 6 GUI? This quick clip from the folks at Lynda will help to orient you. Whether you're new to the Foundry's popular node-based compositing application or a seasoned post-production professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with Nuke 6's new features, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including a detailed overview, watch this free video guide.

How To: Make your own icons for free

In order to make your own icons for free, you will use any bitmap program. You can use Paint, in Windows. Open paint. Click on Images. Then, go to Attributes. Change the width to 32 by 32 pixels. Click OK. You can enlarge the image, if you like, in order to make it easier to work on it. Draw the image that you like. Click on File and Save. Next, you will need to save the image. Click on File and Save As. Change it to a 24 Bitmap image. Name it New.ico. Save it to your desktop. You should see ...

How To: Install the Amazon downloader

In this video, we learn how to install the Amazon downloader with Shawn Powers. First, go to the Amazon website and find the MP3 downloader. Download this to your computer, then install it on your computer. Once it's installed, it's a program you can use to download MP3s. You will also get a free song once you download this, then you can save it to your downloader. Once you are finished, you will be able to transfer this music to your device. This will work under Linux, so it's a great tool y...

How To: Install Truetype Fonts on your Linux system

Shawn Powers teaches us how to install Truetype fonts on your Linux systems. First, log onto your web browser and go to Halloween Fonts. Once on this site, browse through the different types of fonts until you find one that you like. After this, save the file for the font onto your desktop. Now, install this font on your command line by first unzipping it. Go to the user share Truetype folder, then make a new custom folder. Move the file into the folder, then make sure the font and the folder...

How To: Improve your typing speed with Typeracer

In this tutorial, we learn how to improve your typing speed. First, log onto your internet browser and go to the website, Typeracer. Once you are on this site, you can create an account and start to type on it! When you are on this, you can go into different types of races, then see what your scores are against other people. You continue to type until you win the race you are in. Once you are finished typing, you will see your stats and you will be able to improve from there. This is a great ...

How To: Use KDE konsole bookmarks

In this tutorial, we learn how to use KDE konsole bookmarks. You can add a bookmark, then go to the home directory and then you will be able to go back to where you previously were. To do this, save the bookmark of the entry that you are in. Do this by clicking the bookmark tab, then add bookmark. After this, go back to the home entry and then click on your bookmarks tab again. Once you click this, you will see your new bookmark on the bottom, when you click that it will bring you back to you...

How To: Use the ImTOO MP4 Video Converter

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to use the MP4 video converter software, ImTOO. Begin by downloading the program from the link provided in the video. Once downloaded and installed, open the program. On the right side under Profile Settings, users are able to select name, video size, video quality, audio quality, channel and split of the video file. Then click on the Profile combo box and select an output format for the video. Now click Add Files to import a video into the software. ...

How To: Remove the ads from Spotify

In this tutorial, we learn how to remove the ads from Spotify. First, you will need a proxy, which you can get from the website: Proxylist. Just simply click on a free proxy once you get to the site, then write down the proxy and port. Next, go to edit, then preferences. After this, change the auto-detect to https, then put the proxy next to the box that says "host". Next, type in the port next to where it says "port", then click on the "apply" button listed at the bottom of this window. Now ...

How To: Simplify a messy animation curve in Blender 2.53

This video offers a few quick tips on how to simplify animation curves with a new feature in Blender 2.53. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular 3D modeling program or a seasoned graphic artist just interested in better acquainting yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this free video tutorial. For more information, including detailed instructions, take a look. Simplify a messy animation curve in Blender 2.53.

How To: Do a grass silhouette effect in GIMP

In this video, we learn how to do a grass silhouette effect in GIMP. First, draw a black mound and then close off your selection. After this, turn the path into a selection and fill it in with a black color. Next, select your smudge tool and use a small circle brush. Set the rate up to 95, depending on the length of grass you want. Now, use your mouse to push up on the mound and you will see wispy pieces of grass form where you are moving your mouse. Cross them over and cover as much of the a...

How To: Copy any DVD movie with Clone DVD

In this tutorial, we learn how to copy any DVD movie with Clone DVD. First, you need to go to this website to purchase the software, RegNow. When you are done with this, download and install the software. Now, open up the software to your computer and place your DVD inside of your computer. Now you have the option of copying the entire disk, or splitting it and creating a customized movie. After this, you can copy the entire movie onto another disc or you can simply rip it onto your computer ...

How To: Compress files on a Mac using SimplyRAR v1.09

In this tutorial, we learn how to compress files on a Mac using Simply RAR v1.09. First, go to this website and download this software from http://www.macupdate.com/info.php/id/21430. Now, drag and drop this into your application and open it up. now, make a new folder where you want and name it anything you want. Next, drag and drop your movie into the SimplyRAR software, then choose a compression method. After this, choose the options you want that are on the lower right hand corner. Next, c...

How To: Download free drumkits and samples from FruityTuts

In this tutorial, we learn how to download free drum kits and samples from FruityTuts. First, go to FruityTuts and register on the site. After this, log into your account and look to find the kits that are available under the downloads section. Different kits will appear that you can download, choose the one that you like. After you have picked the one you like, click on it and then click on the download button. After this, save it on your computer in the file that you prefer, then you will b...

How To: Customize desktop with DragThing

In this tutorial, we learn how to customize a desktop with DragThing. First, go to the website DragThing and download it. This is an application that has a ton of different things that you can download to customize your desktop. You will be able to change different preferences, such as hot spots, your dock, and many other different things. You can customize everything from sounds and colors to font sizes and application icons. Go through all the settings to change what you want your desktop t...

How To: Draw an eye in GIMP

In this tutorial, we learn how to draw an eye in GIMP. First, open up the GIMP software and set up a circle, then color it dark blue. Next, add in light to the middle of the eye, so it looks like a light is shining onto it. After this, make a small circle in the middle of the eye, coloring it black. When done with this, create a new layer and then add brightness to the pupil of the eye. Continue to play around with the contrast and colors of the eye, so it looks more realistic and life like. ...

How To: Dodge and burn in Lightroom 2

In this tutorial, we learn how to dodge and burn in Lightroom 2. First, open up your image in Lightroom 2 and use the brushes to change the saturation and the colors in the image. You can also use the graduated filter which you can use to apply effects across the image itself. Next, you can add a tint onto the picture and apply a second filter to make the top of the image darker, then make the middle of it brighter. Change the exposure and saturation to make the picture look more realistic. U...

How To: Burn CDs and DVDs in Mac OS X with Burn

Looking for a guide on how to burn CDs and DVDs with the free burn app for Mac OS X? This clip will see to it that you know everything you need to know. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, and to get started using Burn to burn your own optical media, watch this video guide.

How To: Use the DATEDIF function in Microsoft Excel 2007

Looking for a primer on how to use the DATEDIF function in MS Excel 2007? You're in luck. Whether you're new to Microsoft's popular digital spreadsheet application or a seasoned business professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the Excel 2007 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look.

How To: Use the Quick Properties tool in AutoCAD 2011

Learn how to use the ever-useful Quick Properties tool in AutoCad 2011. This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D drafting application or a seasoned professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest iteration of the program, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Create bulleted and numbered lists in AutoCAD 2011

Want to create a bulleted or numbered list in AutoCAD 2011? This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D drafting application or a seasoned professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest iteration of the program, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Set the current layer by selecting an object in AutoCAD 2011

Learn how to set the current layer by selecting elements within an AutoCAD 2011 project. This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D drafting application or a seasoned professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest iteration of the program, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Rotate an element in Autodesk AutoCAD 2011

Need to know how to rotate geometry in AutoCAD 2011? This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D drafting application or a seasoned professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest iteration of the program, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Find points with temporary tracking in AutoCAD 2011

Interested in using temporary tracking to find points when working in AutoCAD 2011? This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D drafting application or a seasoned professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest iteration of the program, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Create geometrical shapes in Autodesk AutoCAD 2011

Need some help figuring out how to construct geometry in AutoCAD 2011? This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D drafting application or a seasoned professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest iteration of the program, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Lock angles with the Ortho and Polar modes in AutoCAD 2011

Learn how to use the Ortho and Polar modes to lock angles in AutoCAD 2011. This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D drafting application or a seasoned professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest iteration of the program, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Access the tool menu in Autodesk AutoCAD 2011

Need some help figuring out how to use the toolbar in AutoCAD 2011? This clip will teach you everything you'll need to know. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D drafting application or a seasoned professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest iteration of the program, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Adjust project settings in Revit Architecture 2011

Need some help understand how project settings work within Autodesk Revit Architecture 2011? This clip provides some help. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular CAD building information modeling application or a seasoned professional merely looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest features and functions of Revit Architecture 2011, you're sure to bell well served by this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch the v...

How To: Create a key schedule in Autodesk Revit Architecture 2011

Need help figuring out how to make a key schedule within Revit Architecture 2011? Learn how with this clip. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular CAD building information modeling application or a seasoned professional merely looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest features and functions of Revit Architecture 2011, you're sure to bell well served by this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch the video.

How To: Add curtains to a wall in Autodesk Revit Architecture 2011

Interested in adding curtains to a wall in Revit Architecture 2011? It's easy. And this clip will show you how it's done. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular CAD building information modeling application or a seasoned professional merely looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest features and functions of Revit Architecture 2011, you're sure to bell well served by this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch the vi...

How To: Generate topography from a DWG link in Revit Architecture 2011

Want to know how to create topography from a DWG link in Revit Architecture 2011? You're in luck. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular CAD building information modeling application or a seasoned professional merely looking to better acquaint yourself with the newest features and functions of Revit Architecture 2011, you're sure to bell well served by this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch the video.

How To: Clean your Mac computer with MacKeeper

If you're Apple computer needs a little cleaning, not the hardware, but the software, then MacKeeper is the way to go. This application will help protect your hard drive from junk and other useless data, freeing up much needed space on your Mac. Also, you can recover files, hide private files, clean up your login items, apps and plugins, and more! Watch this video to see how to use MacKeeper.

How To: Bake ambient occlusion and tangent normals in Blender

In this clip, you'll learn how to bake ambient occlusion (AO) and tangent normals in Blender 2.5 and up. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular 3D modeling program or a seasoned graphic artist just interested in better acquainting yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this free video tutorial. For more information, including detailed instructions, take a look! Bake ambient occlusion and tangent normals in Blender.

How To: Enhance the color of your lips & eyes with GIMP

In this tutorial, we learn how to enhance the color of your lips and eyes with GIMP. To change the eyes, use the ellipse tool to highlight each individual eye, then change the contrast of the eye as well as the color and highlights. Do this for both eyes, then save. To change the lips, use the lasso tool to highlight the outside and inside of the lips, then go to "select", "from path", and then change the color balance as you did on the eyes. Change it until it's the desired color you want, t...

How To: Add location shortcuts to KDE open file dialog

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to add location shortcuts to KDE open file dialog. This task is very easy, fast and simple to do. Begin by opening the program. Then click on File and select Open. In the Open File window, right-click on the left side panel and select Add Entry. In the Edit Quick Access Entry window, type in the description, URL and select an icon. Finish by clicking OK. This video will benefit those viewers who use the KDE program, and would like to learn how to add ...

How To: Convert a word file into a PDF

In this tutorial, we learn how to convert a word file into a PDF file. First, open up your file and then minimize this screen. After this, open up Google and type in "Cutepdf". When you find this, go to the website and download then install this software. This will convert your files into a PDF like you are sending it to a printer. Now, open your word file back up and go down to the print option. Press print, and choose the CutePDF writer, then click "ok". Now, you will save your PDF file, th...