It’s a gross understatement to say the internet has revolutionized the way we live. In the last 15 years or so, most of us have completely changed the way we communicate and access information. It takes little effort to identify numerous ways our daily activities have been streamlined as a result. We bank online, keep in touch with friends and colleagues, catch up on our favorite TV shows, and do our Christmas shopping, to name a few. But there is one often overlooked use, and in these precarious economic times its utility is all the greater. What I’m referring to is our ability to become an expert on just about anything. I’m amazed at the number of times every day I’m confronted with questions and problems to which I do not have the answer or solution, but, rest assured, someone else does, and its likely they’ve posted it somewhere on the internet. Be it a computer issue, changing the starter in my car, or tying a double Windsor, there is rarely an instance that I can’t find the information in a few clicks. Most times I’m pleased to discover the solution isn’t as daunting as it seems and well within my ability to solve, which often saves me a significant amount of time and money.
So where to begin? The best and obvious starting place is Google. Make it your best friend. If you end up searching for a similar subject often enough on Google you may end up finding another site or forum that becomes another invaluable resource. For instance, many computer issue-related searches will yield results at experts-exchange.com. So much so, that if I don’t find the answer quickly, I will search the site directly. Youtube is also a great resource. If you’re looking for instructions on how to play “Sweet Child O’ Mine” on guitar, you can bet someone has uploaded a video of just that. You can also find forums on every subject imaginable, full of knowledgeable and helpful members willing to help you accomplish your next pet project.
So next time you want to save a few bucks, search for how to change the oil in your car yourself. You’ll find it’s easier than it sounds.