Getting to Know You

Since the iPod and iTunes were created to work in tandem, take some time to explore iTunes; it’s your primary tool for manipulating your iPod. Take note of the basic “filing” system iTunes uses to catalog music and make a few notes about how you might like to tweak it to your personal tastes. Have a look at the settings and preferences to become more comfortable with the control system.

This is also the home of the iTunes store. It’s a music-lover’s playground and it’s one of the easiest ways to get music onto your iPod. If you want to buy some music, just click! Play around with the Search feature to find all listings for an artist or an album name. Once you’ve purchased a song and you’re ready to import it to your iPod, first make sure that your iPod is connected to your computer and that iTunes recognizes it. Check the left side of the screen and you should see the name of your iPod listed. Go to the menu bar at the top of your screen, click File>Sync iPod. A spinning arrow by the side of your iPod’s name will let you know iTunes is adding the music you imported to your iPod. A message at the top of the screen will let you know when the process is finished and when it’s safe to “Eject,” or disconnect, your iPod at that time.

If you don’t want to buy songs just yet, don’t fret. Click on the Radio icon in iTunes and select any genre of internet radio you’re interested in. This feature will only work on your computer, but it’s an easy way to listen to free music.