Whether it's using a quick keyboard command instead of the mouse, or compiling a Favorites list for faster access to the Web, we all use little shortcuts to save time on the computer. 

But when it comes to getting work done, you can never know too many tricks. So, we've compiled a list of ten must-have, time-saving tips and tricks for using Windows 98 more efficiently, and making your computer time more enjoyable, whether you're a power user or your first computer is fresh out of the box.

Run programs from the Address bar of your Web browser
When you're surfing the Web, you don't have to go to the Start menu or to the Desktop to start programs like Microsoft Word or Excel.  Instead, enter the program name in the Address bar and start designing a new Word document or Excel spreadsheet in no time flat -- without having to go offline. Learn how

Start frequently used programs more quickly
Most of us have two or three programs that we use frequently, and others we use on a weekly or monthly basis. With the improved Disk Defragmenter in Windows 98, you can move the program files you use most often to faster parts of the hard disk to start your favorite programs in a flash.  Because, who doesn't want to boot Word more quickly? Learn how

Sort e-mail messages before they arrive
Chances are you get a lot of e-mail messages, which means having to constantly sift through and prioritize new mail.  Avoid this task by using the Outlook Express Inbox Assistant to send messages to different folders, using rules that you specify. For example, you can send all the messages from one person to a designated folder. Learn how

Create groups in your address book
Maybe the only thing better than sorting incoming mail is being able to send one message to multiple people who are in the same "group."  With the Outlook Express Address Book, you can create this "group" of people and simply type the group name in the To: line to send your message. Learn how

Save time and effort in typing URL addresses
Until Web addresses get shorter, this may be the best tip for faster Internet browsing.  All you have to enter in the Address bar is the domain name and Internet Explorer does the rest.  You'll never have to type "www" or "http" again. Learn how

Creating and organizing a list of favorite sites
If you find yourself typing the same Web address frequently, or going to Web sites from the dropdown Address bar in Internet Explorer, save time by creating a list of Favorites. You can also add files and folders to your Favorites list, so all of your frequently-used material -- from Word documents to Web pages -- is only a click away. Learn how

Clear up the clutter and make more room on your hard disk
Your computer is like a car: it runs better when it's tuned up.  Use the Disk Cleanup feature to tune up your hard disk and clear up clutter, clean remaining disk space, and remove programs you don't need.  You can also use Disk Cleanup to convert to FAT 32 for increased hard disk space.  Learn how

Don't let a virus infect your computer
The last thing you want is to have a nasty virus come along and undo all your hard work.  Most people use anti-virus programs, which is a good first step, but you can also protect yourself further by directing Outlook Express to not automatically open e-mail attachments. Learn how

Install fun desktop themes
Your desktop is your "home base" when you're working hard, so make it a fun and colorful statement on your personality and mood.  You can change it every day if you want by using the Desktop Themes icon in Control Panel -- there's even a Rainy Day setting for those bleak Monday mornings. Learn how

Use your own voice for audio prompts
You've already customized the look of your computer -- why not the sounds too? Make your computer even more of an extension of yourself by using your own voice for preprogrammed audio reminders.  The Sound Recorder feature lets you record audio hints to your own specifications -- whether it be a soothing affirmation or a loud "wake up!" it's up to you.  Learn how

Stacey Wilson is the editor for the Windows 98 home page.  She is moonlighting as a writer to see what life is like on the "other side."