Common digital problems and first fixes
Every computer user meets problems, and a calm plan helps. First fixes are ideas to try, in a safe order; steps differ on each device, so ask a teacher or a grown-up. A corrupted file will not open: download it again, try another program, or update your software. A device that will not charge: check the cable, check that the socket at home works, and ask a grown-up to look at the charging port, because dust or water in it needs careful cleaning. A forgotten password: use the reset option on the sign-in page, with a grown-up, and choose a new one. A deleted file: look in the bin, where deleted files wait for a while, and keep back-ups of important files. An error when saving: the name may be used by another file, you may not have permission to save in that place, or the name has odd characters. A problem with a part you can touch is hardware; a problem with a program is software.
| Problem | First fixes |
|---|---|
| corrupted file | download again; another program; update |
| will not charge | check cable and socket; a grown-up checks the port |
| forgotten password | use reset, choose a new one |
| deleted file | look in the bin; keep back-ups |
| error when saving | new name; right place; plain characters |
| Kind | Problem | Fix 1 | Fix 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| hardware | laptop will not start | plug in the charger | hold the power button |
| software | page is slow | close other pages | check the connection |
Problem doctor. Write four pretend problems on cards (for example ‘photo will not open’, ‘screen is black’, ‘name already used when saving’, ‘forgot the password’). Pass a card to a partner, who says whether it is hardware or software and gives two first fixes. Then write one problem you or your family met, what you tried, and what happened.