Chapter 3

The Laptop Owner’s Introduction to OS X

In This Chapter

arrow Introducing OS X Mavericks

arrow Appreciating the UNIX core underlying Mavericks

arrow Recognizing similarities between Windows and Mavericks

arrow Getting help while learning about Mavericks

In the other books I’ve written about OS X, I use all sorts of somewhat understated phrases to describe my operating system of choice, such as elegantly reliable, purely powerful, and supremely user-friendly.

But why is Mavericks such a standout? More specifically, why do creative professionals and computer techno-wizards across the globe hunger for the very same OS X that runs your MacBook? Why is Mavericks so far ahead of Windows 7 and 8 in features and performance? Good questions, all!

In this chapter, I answer those queries and satisfy your curiosity about your new playground. I introduce the main elements of the Mavericks Desktop, and I show you the fearless UNIX heart that beats beneath the sleek Mavericks exterior. I also point out the most important similarities between Mavericks and Windows, and I outline the resources available if you ...

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