We’ve all had to read those rambling emails before. You’ll improve your writing skills if you occasionally rewrite a confusing incoming email. The Muse shares some tips on how to be a more effective communicator. Long, rambling emails aren’t effective. This, in turn, makes your own writing more likely to cut through the noise. Don’t send the email. Don’t even open it in your email program. Check out the link for other short tips to improve your communication skills....

There are a ton of great alternative file browsers out there, but our favorite is Xplorer2. It’ll also replace Windows Explorer as your default file manager, which is absolutely killer. Check outour App Directory entry on Xplorer2for more info on its competition. These basic features are all free, but Fences really gets useful with the $10 pro version. Bins- $5 At a measly $5, there’s no reason not to try Bins....

Proper grammar is important, but sometimes grammar checkers and proofreading aren’t enough. If you aren’t sure about a preferred phrasing, try using Google to see what’s popular. When you Google both phrases, “sitting at the drawing board” gives you thousands of more results. That’s your tip that this is the preferred usagejust be sure to put the entire phrase in quotes. How to Use Google in the Most Unusual Way to Make Your Self-Editing Faster, and Better| Problogger....

When you face your to-do list each day, you might organize it bypriorityormix in some rewards. Another approach is to find out which tasks give you energy and strength, just like Popeye uses spinach. These weights are what we call synthetic demands. They are high importance(at least to other people), but usually low-impact. Tasks that excite and inspire you are like a can of spinach. For those of you not in the know, spinach gave pop-eye crazy amounts of strength, and energy....

We coveredGoogle’s Account History page before, but Google always adds new features. Even if you aren’t too concerned about privacy, you might check it out. Click “Manage history” and delete the stuff you don’t want seen. Google’s Web & App Activity| Google Operating System

We’ve all been asked to help donate to someone’s individual cause. A friend may need a medical procedure or just fell on hard times and needs help. Indiegogo Life lets you crowdsource your friends online for these causes. More people will see your cause and hopefully throw some money your way. Best of allno fees. Indiegogo Life| Indiegogo viaThe Next Web

Setting upsome morning ritualshelps start off your day right. The first ritual you pick should be a slow one. Deliberately taking time to slow down first thing in the mornings could reduce your daily stress. Do it and the next few things at a relaxed and calm pace. It will probably not take that much longer than if you do it quickly. If you don’t want to make your bed, try apour-over coffeeor somemorning gratitude....

This video clears up some highly circulated myths about things like germs, soap, and toilet seats. That last one is pretty important, though, and everyone should was their hands andwash them properly. Misconceptions about Germs and Hygiene| YouTube

Here’s our guide to both casual and more advancedmonitor calibration. you’re able to alsorent a colorimiter on the cheap. This isn’t without its downsides, buthere’s the explanation. You canmount just about anything behind your monitorincluding your laptop, external hard drive, and cables. you’re free to alsouse the Kindle as a second monitor. Just find a great background for your monitor and place the object you’re capturing in front of it....

Flavored vinegars give everything a bit of a boost and just add a few calories. Healthy foods like salads can become unhealthy calorie bombs if you use too much dressing. If you’re getting bored with your recipes, instead of adding fat or chemicals, add some vinegar. We’ve covered somemake-your-own salad dressings before, but specialty vinegars add flavor to everything without many calories. Soups,marinadesand anything that uses a little vinegar taste better with a different style....

It’s just a way of thinking about something differently. However you use (or misuse) tools, confirm you’re making something new. Check out the full interview with Kelly over on Freakonomics. Someone Else’s Acid Trip: A New Freakonomics Radio Podcast| Freakonomics Photo byTellessa Myles.

It comes packed with Notification Center integration, badges, and more. If you’ve used the iOS app, the Mac app won’t be too much of a surprise. Any.do(Free) | Mac App Store

Social networks like Facebook and Twitter can be a huge time suck. Essentially, what is your purpose or goal? Maybe you should probably wish someone a happy birthday, or maybe you have to RSVP to a party. Whatever it may be, decide on it beforehand and then focus on doing only what you planned to. It works the same way as creating a shopping list. Is Social Media Sucking Your Time?...