Organize your computer files by creating category folders. For example, in your Web browser, if you have a list of bookmarks that makes your head spin, it's time to put them in order. 

Start by deleting anything that is completely unfamiliar. Next, open bookmarks that are familiar and make sure they still go to the correct website or Web page. If they're "dead", trash them. Next, create folders for each category of bookmark, so you'll be able to find what you're looking for with fewer headaches.

Remove unnecessary files -- Removing unnecessary files will save disk space and keep your system running smoothly. In addition to programs and files you simply don't need anymore, be on the lookout for temporary files and other space-grabbing stragglers that take up disk space. For example, the files often ending in "zip" that are left behind after downloading and installing compressed files.

Once you've found a file you don't need, just right-click on the file and move it to the Recycle Bin. Since putting files in the Recycle Bin doesn't actually "delete" those files it just gets them out of sight you should periodically purge the files to your Recycle Bin. Right-click on the Recycle Bin icon and select Empty Recycle Bin, then click OK; those unwanted files are gone.

Another way to free up disk space is to copy files you don't use very much to removable media such as rewritable CDs. You can create CDs of graphics, documents, and other files that you want to store for future use.

Update software  -- Keeping your software up-to-date is one of the easiest ways to keep your computer running smoothly. Visit your software manufacturer's website to see if new updates are available. These updates are free for most Web browser applications. Most updates contain installation instructions, so read all documentation carefully. Remember to check for new versions periodically. It is especially important to keep your anti-virus program updated to inoculate your computer against disabling bugs.

Defragment your hard drive

Shortcuts -- You've probably been using shortcuts since you first unpacked your computer. Shortcuts are not actual programs, documents, or folders; they are merely links to their parent files, and help to speed up your work and organize your desktop. You can tell a shortcut from other icons by the little arrow in one corner. You'll want to review your shortcuts periodically, deleting and adding as necessary. Creating a new shortcut to a program, document, or folder is as easy as right-clicking on the icon, then choosing New Shortcut from the pop-up menu. A new icon will appear next to the original. Drag this new icon to a convenient location, and treat it as if it were the original.

Set it and forget it -- The settings for your computer can make the difference between a pleasurable experience and a miserable struggle to see what's on the screen. While there are several settings that can be adjusted to your needs, lets focus on two that many overlook: Display and Power Management

Display settings -- To get to the Display settings: Start>Settings>Control Panels>Display

The Display control panel has several tabs with changeable settings. The Settings tab allows you to alter the Screen Area (the size of items onscreen) and Colors (the number of colors displayed).

Most of the time, you will want the Screen Area set to the largest pair of numbers possible (such as 1024 x 624), because this will give you the largest area possible in which to place documents, windows, and icons. If the icons and text become too small to read comfortably, try a smaller pair of numbers (like 832 x 624), which will make items on the screen bigger. Setting the Color to True Color or High Color will make everything onscreen look its best.

Power management settings -- To set to the Power Management settings: Start>Settings>Control Panels> Power Management

The Power Management control panel allows you to set the amount of time your computer is idle before switching into low-power mode to conserve electricity. You should experiment with the times in the Power Management control panel to determine what suits your needs.

As with most control panels, clicking on Apply will apply the new settings to your computer, while clicking OK will both apply the new settings and close the control panel. Clicking on Cancel will close the control panel without applying the new settings.