As computer scientists, we know that computers are great at aiding in repetitive tasks and automation. However, far too often, we forget that this fact applies just as much to our usage patterns, as it does to the tasks we want our programs to perform. We have a vast range of tools available at our fingertips that enable us to be more productive and solve more complex problems when working with computers. Yet many of us utilize only a small fraction of those tools; we only know enough magical incantations by rote to get by, and blindly copy-paste commands from the internet when we get stuck.

We want to teach you how to make the most of the tools you know, show you new tools to add to your toolbox, and hopefully instill in you some excitement for exploring (and perhaps building) more tools on your own.