Program without code using Scratch

After overcoming some initial scepticism, Kevin Partner discovers that drag-and-drop programming isn’t just for kids

The graphical Scratch system (scratch.mit.edu) is a great introduction to programming. One of its strengths is that it teaches the principles of structure separately from any commands or syntax. Understanding how to divide code into large-scale blocks is a huge help when it comes to learning other languages: Google can show you how to put together a while loop in (for example) Python once you know that’s the structure you want to use. And with the release of Scratch version 2, which adds custom functions, cloning and extensions, it’s no longer just for kids.

How to Secure Chrome

Davey Winder investigates whether Google Chrome really deserves its reputation for hardened security – and shows how to make the browser even safer

Ask a roomful of people to name the most insecure web browser and hands will quickly shoot up to answer: “Internet Explorer”. Ask people to pick the safest, and “Chrome” will be the answer on the lips of many. But how true is that in reality?

Misbehaving mice

Is any device as annoying yet as necessary as the PC mouse? I’ve tried to use touchpads and flirted with touchscreens. I’ve even used a trackball in my time. Yet, when it comes to controlling Windows, I just can’t kick the mouse habit.

Sure, I know that keyboard shortcuts can be faster, but when I launch programs, make selections or choose options from a dropdown menu, my brain just goes into autopilot and starts clicking. When I pull out a laptop to work on my kitchen table, I still plug in a mouse within minutes. I’ve even bought one for the Windows 10 tablet I use away from home, because I can’t bear to do any serious work without one.

Your Microsoft account

Solve any sign-in problem, recover lost messages and contacts, and restore blocked or closed accounts

You can’t sign in

Many things can stop you logging into your Microsoft account. The most obvious is that you’re using the wrong username or password, though you might be convinced that you’re not. Check that Caps Lock isn’t enabled, but don’t forget Num Lock too, as this can also cause incorrect input – particularly on laptops, as yours might have an ‘embedded’ numeric pad. Microsoft obscures typed passwords with dots, so open Notepad to check your keyboard is correctly typing what you’re inputting. You can even copy your confirmed details from Notepad using Control (Ctrl)+C and then paste it into the username or password field with Ctrl+V. Finally, check that the relevant Microsoft service is working. For instance, Outlook.com (née Hotmail) has a service-status page at www.snipca.com/17597 – so use this to discover if the problem is at Microsoft’s end. If all else fails, read the next tip.

Secret Tips For Your second monitor

Extend the Taskbar across all displays, find a lost cursor and save time with keyboard shortcuts

Speed up navigation

One downside to multiple-monitor setups is having to push the mouse that bit further to get around the extended Desktop. Thankfully, Windows can help. Click Start (followed by Run in XP), type main.cpl and press Enter. Select the Pointer Options tab then drag the Motion slider to the right to speed up how quickly your cursor travels across your screen. Also, tick the ‘Enhance pointer precision’ box, as this will ensure the fastest movement only when Windows detects you’re trying to move the cursor over a long distance.