Introduction
Microsoft Edge, the modern web browser from Microsoft, is not just a tool for browsing the internet. It's a platform rich with features designed to enhance productivity and streamline your online experience. This article, crafted for the Allan Hancock College Information Technology Services, explores the unique productivity tools available in Microsoft Edge. From reading aloud web pages to efficiently managing tabs and research materials, Edge offers a suite of capabilities that can significantly boost your productivity.
Productivity Tools Details
Read Aloud
The 'Read Aloud' feature in Microsoft Edge is a game-changer for consuming web content. It uses advanced text-to-speech technology to read web pages out loud, making it an excellent tool for multitasking or for those who prefer auditory learning. To use this feature:
- Right-click on any web page and select "Read aloud," or press
Ctrl + Shift + U.
- A toolbar appears, allowing you to play, pause, skip, or change the reading speed and voice. This tool is particularly beneficial for reviewing long articles, proofreading your own work, or simply enjoying a hands-free reading experience.
Open Recently or Accidentally Closed Tabs
Accidentally closing a tab can be frustrating, especially if it contained important information. Microsoft Edge simplifies tab recovery. To reopen a recently closed tab:
- Right-click on any open tab and choose “Reopen closed tab,” or press
Ctrl + Shift + T.
- You can repeat this step to open multiple closed tabs in the order they were closed. This feature is invaluable for retrieving important tabs you might have closed accidentally or wish to revisit.
Using Split Screen
Split Screen in Microsoft Edge is an excellent feature for multitasking. It allows you to view two or more websites side-by-side without needing to switch between tabs constantly. To use Split Screen:
- Click the Split Screen icon near the browser search field:
- Select the tab for the other half of your screen.
OR
- Click and drag a tab out of the current window to create a new window.
- Use Windows’ “Snap” feature (Windows key + left/right arrow) to align the windows side by side. This is particularly useful for comparing content across sites, conducting research, or keeping an eye on live updates while working on another task.
Using Collections
Collections in Edge is a powerful feature for organizing your research and web findings. It helps you easily collect, organize, and share content from across the web. To create a Collection:
- Click the “Collections” icon (resembling two squares) on the top right corner of the browser.
- Start a new collection and drag-and-drop content, or use the context menu to add web pages, images, and text. Collections are perfect for project management, research activities, or planning trips, enabling you to keep related information in a well-organized and accessible format.
