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Use Apple Shortcuts to Build the Ultimate Daily Digital Journal

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I started journaling in 2019. It’s not that I love keeping a journal, exactly. It’s more that I find my brain works better if I spend a little time dumping its contents onto paper every morning. This practice got me through 2020, an extremely difficult year, and I’ve kept it up ever since.

My journal isn’t advanced. I’ve got a few sections recommended by my therapist from around the time I started—there’s a section I fill in every day with things I’m looking forward to, for example. I use another section to think through what I’m going to eat and other things I’m going to do that day. All of this is straightforward; I just use a template that includes headers for those things.

But there’s a bit of information I like to gather and include. Each day’s weather, for example. I’ve noticed that I’m often in a bad mood on rainy, gray days, so recording the weather along with my thoughts gives me some helpful context when I’m reviewing entries later. I also like to know what time I wrote my entry, where I was when I wrote it, and—if possible—include a quote of the day or something else to reflect on.

I could gather all of the above information myself manually, every morning. But I’ve found it’s a lot faster to use Apple Shortcuts for the job. This application, which comes preinstalled on every Mac, iPhone, and iPad, can automatically pull in all kinds of information and format it nicely for my journal. I run a custom automation every morning. Here’s how I built it.

The Date, Weather, and Location

Screenshot of Apple Shortcuts

Apple via Justin Pot

Fire up Apple Shortcuts on your device of choice and make a new shortcut. This software can be a little confusing, but don’t worry, I’m going to talk you through everything. In the right column you will see a number of different tiny automations you can run. Drag as many of these as you want to the main column, which is on the left. I like to search for what I’m looking for, but if you prefer, you can manually explore the options to get a sense of what Shortcuts can do.

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Awesome iPhone Battery Saving Shortcuts

iPhone Battery

In an era where our smartphones feel like extensions of ourselves, ensuring they last through our busiest days is a must. For iPhone users, the quest for longer battery life is ongoing, but thankfully, there are innovative shortcuts and automations that can significantly extend your device’s battery life. If you’re keen on making the most out of your iPhone’s battery, you will be pleased to know that with a few adjustments and the implementation of practical automation, you can significantly reduce power consumption without sacrificing functionality.

Stephen Robles has recently shared a video that sheds light on ten essential shortcuts and automations, designed to help iPhone users maximize their battery life. These tips range from automating the Low Power Mode to adjusting screen brightness and managing the always-on display. Let’s dive into these battery-saving tricks:

  • Automate Low Power Mode: This feature can be set to activate automatically when your battery dips below 30% and to deactivate when the battery level climbs above 50% or the device starts charging. This ensures your phone conserves energy when it’s running low and returns to normal functionality once it has enough charge.
  • Adjust Always-On Display Settings: For users of iPhone 14 Pro and 15 Pro models, you can automate your always-on display to turn off when the battery falls below 30% and to reactivate when the battery level exceeds 65%. This is particularly useful for saving battery while still enjoying the benefits of the always-on display when your battery level allows it.
  • Screen Brightness Shortcut: Create a custom shortcut to manually adjust your screen’s brightness to around 8% and navigate to settings to disable auto-brightness. This manual adjustment helps in conserving battery by reducing the power used by your display, one of the most significant battery drains on any smartphone.
  • Super Low Power Shortcut: For those times when you need to squeeze every bit of life out of your battery, this shortcut combines several actions: lowering screen brightness, enabling low power mode, turning off the always-on display, and disabling auto-brightness. This is the ultimate battery-saving mode for critical situations.
  • Revert Settings Upon Charging: Set an automation that will revert all your energy-saving changes (like disabling low power mode, turning on the always-on display, and adjusting brightness) when the iPhone is unplugged from the charger. This allows you to return to your preferred settings automatically once your phone is charged.
  • Audible Charging Notification: A clever automation to have Siri announce when the iPhone’s battery reaches 85%, giving you a heads-up that your phone is almost fully charged without needing to constantly check.
  • Silence Mode Toggle: Specifically for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users, this automation can turn off silence mode when the phone is charging and turn it back on when disconnected. This feature is great for ensuring you don’t miss important notifications just because your phone was charging.

These shortcuts not only enhance your iPhone’s battery life but also introduce a level of customization and automation that many users might not realize is possible. Implementing these tips can lead to a more efficient use of your device, ensuring it stays powered for longer without constant manual adjustments.

Robles concludes his video with a playful reminder to subscribe for more insightful tips on iPhone settings, emphasizing battery life, privacy, security, and tutorials on using shortcuts for other Apple devices. This blend of practical advice with a hint of humor makes the learning process enjoyable and memorable.

Adopting these shortcuts will not only extend your iPhone’s battery life but also enhance your overall user experience by automating tasks that would otherwise require manual intervention. It’s about making smart use of the technology at our fingertips to make our daily lives a bit easier and our devices more efficient.

Source & Image Credit Stephen Robles

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Level Up Your iPhone: 15 Cool iPhone Shortcuts You’ll Love

iPhone Shortcuts

If you are looking for some useful iPhone Shortcuts, we have an awesome video from iRveiews that walks us through 15 shortcuts you need to try out. iPhone users are constantly on the lookout for ways to streamline their daily tasks and enhance productivity. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or someone who appreciates a good hack to save time, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several iPhone shortcuts designed to simplify your life.

These shortcuts are not just about cutting corners; they’re about optimizing your interaction with your device for a more efficient and tailored experience. Let’s delve into these 15 awesome iPhone shortcuts that you should incorporate into your routine.

  1. Clipster: This handy tool transforms the way you manage your iPhone’s clipboard. Imagine being able to store, edit, and manage up to five clipboard items. Clipster offers a seamless way to keep track of important snippets of text or links you come across throughout the day.
  2. Flashlight Timer: Gone are the days of leaving your flashlight on by mistake. With this shortcut, set a timer for your flashlight, ensuring it turns off automatically after a set duration. It’s a simple yet effective solution for saving battery life.
  3. Remove Background: Enhance your photos by effortlessly removing and replacing their background. This shortcut not only allows you to adjust the subject’s position but also its rotation and transparency, offering creative control over your images.
  4. QR Code Generator: Sharing information has never been easier. Generate QR codes for images, URLs, Wi-Fi passwords, or plain text with just a tap, facilitating quick and easy data transfer.
  5. Translate My Screenshot: For the polyglots or travelers among us, this shortcut is a game-changer. Instantly translate text captured in screenshots to your chosen language, supporting a wide array of languages for global communication.
  6. Dictate to Notes: Convert spoken words into text with unparalleled ease. This shortcut is perfect for capturing thoughts, reminders, or meeting notes hands-free, ensuring you don’t miss a beat.
  7. Shorten URL: Simplify sharing by shortening URLs directly from Safari’s share sheet. This feature is invaluable for those who regularly share web content, making long links more manageable.
  8. Clear Out Photos: Tidy up your photo library by quickly selecting and deleting unwanted images. This shortcut is a boon for freeing up storage space and keeping your gallery organized.
  9. Charge Time: Estimate how long it will take to fully charge your iPhone. This information can help manage your charging times more effectively, ensuring your device is powered up when you need it.
  10. Email Myself: Streamline the process of sending content to yourself. This shortcut enables you to quickly email notes, links, or files from the share sheet, perfect for personal archiving or reminder settings.
  11. Phone Menu: Access advanced options like charging boost mode and super low power mode. These settings can significantly improve charging efficiency and extend your battery life, offering more power when you need it most.
  12. Network Tool: Dive deep into Wi-Fi network analytics with this shortcut. Get detailed information, perform speed tests, and even share your Wi-Fi via QR code, making it easier to connect and diagnose network issues.
  13. Search On: Search across multiple platforms, including Google, Twitter, YouTube, and eBay, with a single shortcut. This feature streamlines your search process, saving time and effort when looking for specific information.
  14. Set Volume: Preset your iPhone’s volume to a specific percentage quickly. This is particularly useful for setting the right volume for different environments or ensuring consistency in audio playback.
  15. Turn Text into Audio: Convert text into an audio file, allowing you to listen to written content on-the-go. This shortcut is ideal for consuming articles, emails, or documents audibly, making multitasking a breeze.

By integrating these iPhone shortcuts into their daily routine, iPhone users can significantly improve their interaction with their device. These tools are designed to offer simple yet effective solutions for common needs, enhancing productivity and convenience. As technology continues to evolve, embracing these shortcuts can help you stay ahead, making your iPhone more efficient and tailored to your lifestyle.

Source & Image Credit: iReviews

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How to Use the Shortcuts App on Your Mac (Video)

Shortcuts App

Unlocking the full potential of your Mac has never been easier, thanks to the Shortcuts app. This powerful tool is designed to enhance your productivity and streamline your tasks, allowing you to perform complex actions with just a single click. If you are wondering how to integrate this into your daily workflow effectively, you will be pleased to know that the process is straightforward and highly customizable. The video below from MacVince shows us how to get the most out of the Shortcuts App on your Mac.

Dive Into the Basics

The Shortcuts app on Mac is your gateway to automating routine tasks, thereby simplifying your digital life. A shortcut, in essence, is a series of actions that are executed automatically to perform a specific task. Imagine being able to access detailed network information, manage passwords, or even convert videos to GIFs with minimal effort. This app makes it all possible.

Accessing and Running Shortcuts

To harness the power of shortcuts, you need to know how to access and run them efficiently. Here are five methods that will have you automating tasks in no time:

  1. Menu Bar: A convenient place to run shortcuts with just a couple of clicks.
  2. Spotlight Search: Quickly find and execute shortcuts by typing their names.
  3. Quick Actions: Integrate shortcuts into the Finder context menu for easy access.
  4. Share Sheet: Share data between apps using shortcuts directly from the Share menu.
  5. Keyboard Shortcuts: Assign custom key combinations to run shortcuts without leaving your keyboard.

Each method offers a unique way to incorporate shortcuts into your daily activities, making them indispensable tools for productivity.

Practical Examples of Shortcuts

The true beauty of the Shortcuts app lies in its versatility. Here are some of the most useful shortcuts that can have a significant impact on your efficiency:

  • Network Details: Get instant access to your WiFi information, including speed tests and a QR code for sharing your WiFi password.
  • Passwords: Navigate directly to your iCloud keychain settings to manage your saved passwords.
  • Convert Video to GIF: Easily convert video clips into GIFs for presentations or social sharing.
  • Count Characters: Quickly count the characters in any selected text, with an option to switch to a word count.
  • Split Screen: Effortlessly open and arrange two applications side by side for improved multitasking.
  • URL Shortener: Create shorter URLs for more manageable sharing and presentations.
  • Search On: Execute quick searches on your preferred platforms with customizable search engine settings.
  • Sort Lines: Alphabetically sort a list of names or items to better organize your data.
  • Remove Image Background: Simplify the process of removing backgrounds from images for stickers or focused visuals.

By incorporating these shortcuts into your routine, you can significantly reduce the time and effort spent on common tasks.

Expanding Your Mac’s Capabilities

The Shortcuts app is just the beginning. By exploring additional macOS features and shortcuts, you can further enhance your Mac experience. Whether it’s automating complex workflows or simplifying daily tasks, the possibilities are endless.

For those looking to delve deeper into what their Mac can do, this guide serves as a foundational step towards mastering your digital workflow. The Shortcuts app not only offers a way to increase productivity but also opens up a world of creativity and efficiency that can transform how you interact with your Mac.

By following the step-by-step instructions and experimenting with the shortcuts provided, you’ll quickly become adept at automating tasks and making the most of your Mac’s capabilities. Remember, the key to maximizing productivity is not just about working harder but working smarter.

Source & Image Credit: MaacVince

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8 Awesome iPhone Shortcuts You Need To Check Out

iPhone Shortcuts

In the fast-paced world of technology, efficiency is key, iPhone Shortcuts are a great way to get things done on your device. For Apple device users, this means making the most out of every tap, swipe, and command.  iDownloadBlog recently shed light on a suite of shortcuts designed to elevate the user experience on iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. These aren’t just any shortcuts; they’re carefully crafted automations that integrate seamlessly with your daily life, from streamlining your commute to managing your health. Let’s dive into eight iPhone shortcuts that are bound to make your digital life more convenient and personalized.

  1. Introduction to Shortcuts: The realm of Apple devices is enriched with the ability to customize and automate tasks, thanks to the Shortcuts app. This app is a powerhouse for those looking to tailor their device’s functionalities to match their lifestyle and preferences precisely. Whether you’re a seasoned tech aficionado or new to the Apple ecosystem, understanding how to leverage these shortcuts can significantly enhance your device’s utility.
  2. Activating Shortcuts with Ease: One of the most ingenious features introduced is the ability to activate shortcuts through a double or triple tap on the back of your device. This method not only offers convenience but also a certain stealthiness, allowing you to execute commands without needing to divert your gaze from the task at hand. Setting up this feature is straightforward and opens up a world of possibilities for quick access to your favorite shortcuts.
  3. Daily Commute Made Simple: Imagine starting your day with your favorite tunes and navigation ready to go with a simple gesture. The Daily Commute Shortcut does just that, eliminating the need to manually select your music and set up navigation, thus saving precious minutes every morning.
  4. Effortless Document Scanning: Managing paperwork is a breeze with the Document Scanning Shortcut. Directly scan documents into the Files app, making it easier to keep track of receipts, important documents, and tax-related paperwork—all without navigating through multiple apps.
  5. Focus on Homework and Assignments: For students, the Homework and Assignments Shortcut can be a game-changer. By activating a focus mode, checking due assignments, and even playing study music or opening educational resources, this shortcut supports a productive study session with minimal distractions.
  6. Instant Website and YouTube Access: Accessing your most-visited websites or YouTube channels has never been quicker. With a specific shortcut, you’re only a tap away from the content you love, streamlining how you consume digital media.
  7. Stay Hydrated with Ease: Keeping track of your daily water intake is essential for health, and the Water Logging Shortcut simplifies this task. Log your intake with a quick command, ensuring you stay hydrated without the hassle of manual tracking.
  8. Automations for Charging and CarPlay: The frustration of phones not charging when expected is addressed with a clever automation that announces the phone’s charging status. Moreover, for those who use CarPlay, automations can start navigation, music, or other tasks as soon as the car starts, making every drive smoother and more enjoyable.

These shortcuts, as highlighted by iDownloadBlog, are not just about adding convenience; they’re about reshaping how we interact with our devices, making our digital experiences more intuitive, personalized, and efficient.

As we continue to navigate through the digital age, tools like these empower us to take control of our technology, making it work for us in the most effective way possible. Try out these shortcuts and discover how they can transform your daily interactions with your Apple devices.

Source & Image Credit: IDB

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Mastering the Mac Keyboard: Your Guide to Shortcuts

Mac Keyboard Shortcuts

Your Mac keyboard is more than just a way to type words. It’s a gateway to a universe of shortcuts, hidden commands, and ninja-level efficiency. By harnessing the power of these keyboard combinations, you can navigate your Mac, launch apps, manipulate files, and edit text with lightning speed.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with the essential knowledge to become a Mac keyboard shortcut whiz. We’ll cover:

  • Common Mac Shortcuts: These keyboard combinations are your bread and butter, letting you perform everyday tasks like copying and pasting, saving files, and taking screenshots.
  • App-Specific Shortcuts: Dive into the hidden shortcuts of your favorite apps, from Safari and Mail to Photoshop and Final Cut Pro.
  • Creating Your Own Shortcuts: Craft custom shortcuts to tailor your Mac experience to your unique workflow.

Keyboard Shortcuts 101: The Basics

Let’s start with some fundamental shortcuts that every Mac user should know:

  • Copy: Command (⌘) + C
  • Paste: Command (⌘) + V
  • Cut: Command (⌘) + X
  • Undo: Command (⌘) + Z
  • Redo: Command (⌘) + Shift + Z
  • Select All: Command (⌘) + A
  • Save: Command (⌘) + S
  • Take Screenshot: Shift + Command (⌘) + 4

These are just a taste of the many common shortcuts available. As you explore different apps, you’ll discover their own unique set of shortcuts to boost your productivity.

App-tastic Shortcuts:

Many apps come packed with shortcuts that can streamline your workflow. Here are some examples:

Safari:

  • Open a new tab: Command (⌘) + T
  • Close a tab: Command (⌘) + W
  • Go back one page: Command (⌘) + ←
  • Go forward one page: Command (⌘) + →

Mail:

  • Compose a new email: Command (⌘) + N
  • Reply to an email: Command (⌘) + R
  • Reply to all recipients: Command (⌘) + Option + R
  • Forward an email: Command (⌘) + Shift + F

Photoshop:

  • Zoom in: Command (⌘) + Plus (+)
  • Zoom out: Command (⌘) + Minus (-)
  • Undo the last action: Command (⌘) + Z
  • Redo the last action: Command (⌘) + Shift + Z

These are just a few examples. Don’t be afraid to explore the menus of your favorite apps to uncover their hidden shortcut treasures.

Craft Your Keyboard Kung Fu:

Mac allows you to create custom shortcuts to suit your specific needs. Here’s how:

  • Go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts.
  • Click the “+” button to add a new shortcut.
  • Select the application or menu item you want to assign a shortcut to.
  • Enter the desired keyboard combination.
  • Click “Add”.

With a little creativity, you can craft custom shortcuts to automate repetitive tasks and personalize your Mac experience.

Practice makes perfect! The more you use keyboard shortcuts, the more second-nature they’ll become. So, start incorporating them into your daily workflow and watch your productivity soar.

This is just a brief overview of the vast world of Mac keyboard shortcuts. With dedication and exploration, you can unlock a new level of efficiency and mastery over your Mac. Check out Apple’s official support page on keyboard shortcuts for even more in-depth information: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201236

Mastering the symphony of Mac keyboard shortcuts is a transformative journey. You’ll not only save countless clicks and hours, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of how your Mac works. So, keep practicing, explore those hidden commands, and discover the joy of navigating your digital world with lightning speed and effortless grace. Remember, the ultimate reward isn’t just efficiency, it’s the freedom to unlock your creative potential and conquer your digital mountains with the power of your fingertips.

I hope this detailed guide has given you a comprehensive understanding of how to use Mac keyboard shortcuts. Remember, the key is to experiment, have fun, and unleash the power of your keyboard!

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How To Use Shortcuts On The iPhone

Shortcuts iPhone

This guide is designed to show you how to use Shortcuts on the iPhone, these can be used for a wide range of different things on your iPhone> In today’s dynamic and fast-moving world, where the quest for efficiency and convenience takes center stage, the Shortcuts app on the iPhone stands out as a remarkably potent instrument. It’s designed to simplify and accelerate daily tasks, significantly boosting productivity. This app is incredibly adaptable, offering users the ability to automate those mundane, repetitive actions that consume valuable time. Moreover, it provides the facility to craft personalized commands tailored to individual needs and preferences.

What’s particularly striking about the Shortcuts app is its integration with Siri, Apple’s intelligent assistant. This feature allows for the use of intuitive voice commands, adding a layer of ease and accessibility to its functionality. It means that tasks can be performed and processes initiated without even a single tap or swipe – just by using your voice.

The Shortcuts app is not just for those steeped in technology; its real beauty lies in its accessibility. Whether you’re a tech-savvy enthusiast always on the lookout for the latest gadgetry or someone who’s just beginning to explore the possibilities of technology, the app is intuitive and user-friendly. It invites users of all skill levels to delve into its capabilities.

Diving into the intricacies of the Shortcuts app opens up a realm of possibilities. It’s like having a personal assistant at your fingertips, ready to carry out your commands and streamline your digital life. From setting up morning routines to managing emails and social media interactions, the possibilities are vast and varied. Understanding how to leverage this tool effectively can transform the way you interact with your device, making every interaction more efficient, productive, and enjoyable.

Demystifying the Shortcuts App

The Shortcuts app serves as a central hub for creating, managing, and executing shortcuts, which are essentially sequences of pre-defined instructions that perform specific tasks. These shortcuts can range from simple actions like opening a specific app or sending a text message to more complex automations that involve multiple steps and interactions with third-party apps.

Crafting Your First Shortcut: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Launch the Shortcuts app: Locate the Shortcuts app icon on your iPhone’s home screen or in the App Library.
  2. Explore the Gallery: Tap the “Gallery” tab to browse through a collection of pre-built shortcuts designed for various purposes.
  3. Choose a Shortcut: Select a shortcut that aligns with your desired task or automation.
  4. Customize and Activate: Once a shortcut has been selected, review and customize its actions as needed. Then, tap the “Play” button to execute the shortcut.

Delving into the World of Automation

The Shortcuts app offers a vast array of automation possibilities, allowing users to streamline their daily routines and enhance productivity. Here are some examples of how shortcuts can be utilized:

  • Streamline Routine Tasks: Create shortcuts to automate repetitive tasks like generating a daily to-do list, setting alarms, or adjusting device settings.
  • Enhance Productivity: Automate actions like sending work emails, creating meeting agendas, or generating reports, saving valuable time and effort.
  • Personalize Your Experience: Craft shortcuts to control your smart home devices, manage your music playlists, or access personalized information like weather forecasts or traffic updates.

Unlocking the Power of Siri Voice Commands

Siri, Apple’s intelligent voice assistant, can be seamlessly integrated with Shortcuts, allowing users to execute shortcuts hands-free. To activate a shortcut using Siri, simply say “Hey Siri” followed by the shortcut’s name or a custom phrase you’ve assigned.

Additional Tips and Tricks

  • Explore the Shortcuts Community: Discover a wealth of user-created shortcuts by browsing the Shortcuts app’s community section.
  • Learn from Others: Utilize online tutorials and guides to enhance your understanding of Shortcuts and discover advanced techniques.
  • Share Your Creations: Share your own shortcuts with friends and family to spread the knowledge and benefits of automation.

Summary

The Shortcuts app empowers iPhone users to take control of their devices and enhance their productivity. By mastering the art of shortcut creation and leveraging Siri voice commands, users can automate repetitive tasks, personalize their experience, and streamline their daily routines. With its vast potential and ever-growing community, the Shortcuts app continues to revolutionize the way we interact with our iPhones. You can find out more details about using Shortcuts on the iPhone over at Apple’s website.

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