Are there any general instructions for using general software tools?

Both www.learnit.ucla.edu and www.kb.ucla.edu both have a wide variety of guides and tips for diverse collection of general software tools.

When seeking an overview of a software package in Lynda.com, try the “fundamentals” or “up and running” version of the software. By skimming the course module’s table of contents, one can quickly ascertain the level of the material and its applicability. Related, a module’s transcript tab can allow one to peruse a module’s exact dialog to target on precise sections of interest. Two monitor arrangements can be handy to view a video on one monitor, and extra information (transcript or program the module concerns) on the second monitor.