Startup Items

There are certain applications that I always run as soon as I start up my Mac - iCal, Mail, Skype, iChat, Twitterrific. These sit on my second monitor throughout the workday. Instead of launching each one every time I start the computer, I’ve got my Mac doing the work for me.

To do this, first click the “Accounts” icon in System Preferences. With your account selected in the sidebar, click “Login Items” at the top of the main pane. You’ll see a lit of items that will open automatically when you first log in; items with a check to the left of them will begin hidden and out of view.

Add a new application to the list by clicking the plus sign below the list. You’ll then get a Finder window in which you can choose the application you want; once selected, click the “Add” button. Then click the checkbox if you want the application to begin hidden.

You can also add things other than Applications. Select a file or folder to have it automatically open when your Mac starts; choose a song or video if you’d like to see that.