MacBook: FAQ

Audience: Staff

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to help staff navigate common questions during the shift from Windows to MacBook. If you do not see the answer to your question please contact the ICCSD Help Desk.

Table of Contents:

1 Where is the “Start” Menu on a Mac?
2 What’s Different About the Keyboard?
3 How Do I Browse Files Like I Used to With File Explorer?
4 Where’s My C:\ drive?
5 Can I use Microsoft Office on a Mac?
6 How Do I Take a Screenshot?
7 What’s Spotlight?
8 How do I Right-Click?

Where is the “Start” Menu on a Mac?

macOS uses the Dock (bottom of the screen) to launch apps.
For system-wide search and quick access, press Command (⌘) + Spacebar to open Spotlight, or click the Launchpad icon.

What’s Different About the Keyboard?

Key differences:
- Command (⌘) = your new “Control” key for shortcuts (e.g., ⌘+C = Copy).
- Delete key acts like Backspace.
- No dedicated Print Screen: Use Shift + Command + 4 to screenshot.

How Do I Browse Files Like I Used to With File Explorer?

Use Finder, the Mac equivalent of File Explorer. You can access it from the Dock (smiley face icon) to browse files, drives, downloads, etc.

Where’s My C:\ drive?

macOS doesn’t use drive letters. Your files are under:
- /Users/YourName/ for personal files.
- “Macintosh HD” is your main storage drive.

Can I use Microsoft Office on a Mac?

Yes, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook all have Mac versions.
- You can use them online via Office 365.

How Do I Take a Screenshot?

Full screen: Command + Shift + 3.
Partial screen: Command + Shift + 4.
Window: Command + Shift + 4, then tap spacebar.

What’s Spotlight?

Spotlight is Mac’s supercharged search.
- Press Command + Spacebar and start typing to find files, apps, definitions, or even do quick math.

How do I Right-Click?

Two-finger tap on the trackpad.
Or press Control + click.
You can also enable "Right click" under Trackpad settings.