How to Get Your Tool Bars and Navigation Bars Back

Internet browsers offer the ability to save bookmarks, add extensions, and customize tool bars and navigation materials. With so much customization across several different browsers, you may find yourself needing to troubleshoot a suddenly missing component of your normal setup. The most common solutions to this issue are simple to execute and in the process you can also learn how to customize your browsing experience. Results and exact menu headings may vary a bit across different versions of the browser software as well as across Mac and PC but with a little patience you're certain to be steered in the right direction.

EditSteps

EditMozilla Firefox

1. Access the View menu. If you're suddenly missing your bookmarks tool bar or some other component that you're used to seeing, a simple fix may be found in the "View" menu. It's located in the upper left part of your screen, along the top menu bar. 'View" should be the 4th option from the left after the "Firefox", "File", and "Edit" menus. Under that menu look for "Toolbars" and "Sidebar" menus for specific components to be toggled as viewable or hidden.
   
   • If checked, the tool bar is currently visible, if unchecked it is currently hidden.
2. Right click on a grey section of the window. The right click allows you to quickly change the view of the browser by hiding or unhiding your toolbars.
   
   • Consider customizing your tool bars. Firefox's upper right corner settings menu offers a "Customize" option which allows you to drag and drop various shortcut icons into your browser window.^[1]
3. Open a new window. If you suddenly find your navigation bar missing (the area with your current internet address), there are a few things you can try. The first is simply opening a new browser window. + is a quick shortcut for PCs, while + is the shortcut for Macs.^[2]
   
   • Note: The new window method will restore the navigation bar if the underlying issue is a pop-up window that has hidden this tool bar.^[3]
4. Delete the sessionstore.js file. This file, which stores the current browser session data, is located in the Firefox profile folder and can be accessed through Help -> Troubleshooting Information->Profile Folder (under Application Basics). Once found, click the button to the right labeled either "Show in Finder" (Mac) or "Show Folder" (PC) then delete.^[4]
   
   • Deleting this file effectively restores Firefox to its settings before you began the session and may be able to bring back your tool bars in the process.

EditGoogle Chrome

1. Access the View menu. For suddenly missing toolbars in Chrome, try looking under the "View" menu located 4th from the left along the uppermost menu bar on your screen (after "Chrome", "File", and "Edit"). A checkmark next to "Always Show Bookmarks Bar" means that the Bookmarks Bar is currently visible.
   
   • For the bookmark tool bar specifically, try keyboard shortcut + (for PCs) or ++ (for Macs).
2. Exit full screen mode. One reason you may find your Chrome navigation bar hidden is that you've inadvertently lapsed into full screen mode. To toggle this mode on and off use the keyboard shortcut ++ (for PCs) or ++ (for Macs).
   
3. Manage your extensions. Too many Chrome extensions installed and visible in your tool bar area may be hiding your navigation bar from view and in some cases these extensions may even be hiding the bar programmatically. Look through and manage (i.e. delete or disable) your extensions by accessing the upper right corner settings menu, then clicking "More Tools", then "Extensions".
   

EditSafari

1. Access the View menu. Within Safari this menu offers several different options of tool bars to hide or show. The "View" menu is located in the top menu bar of your screen, 4th from the left after "Safari", "File", and "Edit" menus. If your tool bar is suddenly invisible, check here first.
   
2. Customize your tool bars. In Safari, during customization, it's possible to get rid of everything (even the navigation bar). If anything is missing try accessing this menu through View->Customize. From here you can drag and drop all the possible elements back into place, including the navigation bar itself.
   
3. Restart Safari. Try closing the browser app entirely and restarting it. If something from your previous browser session was causing the tool bars to be hidden (for instance a pop-up window), this should restore your normal view.
   
4. Reinstall Safari. If you're still having trouble after trying all of the above, consider uninstalling and then reinstalling the browser from a new (free) download. This should effectively reset all of Safari's default settings but will in the process erase any bookmarks, data, and other customizations you've accumulated.
   

EditInternet Explorer

1. Toggle out of fullscreen mode. switches full screen on and off in Internet Explorer (IE) and this mode may be responsible for hiding your navigation or other tool bars.^[5]
   
   • In Internet Explorer 8 try the shortcut ++.
2. Reset Internet Explorer's settings. To do this first close all your open IE windows, then reopen the program. Click "Tools" then "Internet Options". Within that menu click "Advanced" and then "Reset". Then click "Reset" once more to confirm. The browser will go back to default settings and should bring back your navigation or other tool bars.
   
   • You'll also need to restart your computer for this reset to take effect.
3. Reinstall Internet Explorer. If nothing else is working, consider first uninstalling then subsequently reinstalling the browser. The download will be free and easy to find.
   
   • This will reset all of Internet Explorer's default settings but will in the process erase any bookmarks, data, and other customizations you've acquired.

EditVideo

EditTips

• Modern browsers often offer user profiles (e.g. Firefox Sync, Chrome user profiles). Being signed in means retaining all bookmarks, data, and custom tool bars across computers or after reinstalls.

EditWarnings

• If your IE Home Page has been changed without your knowledge, or you have unwanted tool bars and links in the navigation area that keep returning, it could mean you have some spyware or other malicious software present. Look for help in uninstalling the programs or consult an expert if the issue persists.

EditRelated wikiHows

• Type in a Web Address to Go to a Specific Website
• Change Your Home Page
• Clear Your Online Activity
• Make Text Invisible on a Web Page
• Customize Firefox Toolbars with Images
• Customize Your Yahoo! Tool Bar
• Bring Facebook and Twitter in Your Browser Toolbar

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

from How to of the Day http://ift.tt/1pmhOGz

How to Care for Zebra Danios

Danios are fun to watch and easy to care for, even for the novice aquarist. This article will show you how to care for these hardy, yet beautiful fish.

EditSteps

EditSetting Up the Aquarium

1. Choose a tank large enough for a group of fish. Danios thrive in groups, the larger the better. Ideally you should have at least five or six danios, in a tank that holds at least 25 gallons (95 liters). A group of three fish in a smaller tank is acceptable, but can lead to stress or aggression. Never keep a zebra danio alone or in a tank smaller than 10 gallons (38L).
2. Add gravel and plants. Add a layer of well-rinsed sand or gravel to the base of the dry tank. Add a few plants and ornaments as well, but keep the taller ones at the perimeter of the tank. Danios are active fish that need plenty of room to swim at the mid-level of the tank. The decorations are necessary so the fish can hide, but should not interfere with movement.
3. Add the water. If you are not familiar with aquarium care, read this article for more details. You may need to treat the water with a dechlorinator.
4. Set up aquarium equipment. A filter, air pump, aquarium light, and thermometer are standard supplies for any aquarium. Danios prefer temperatures around 70–75ºF (21–24ºC). Depending on the temperature conditions of your home, you may need a heater to regulate this temperature.
   • Danios like water movement. Make sure there is water movement from the water filter.
5. Cycle your tank. It is very important to "cycle" a new aquarium before adding any fish. Use a test kit from an aquarium store to measure the amount of ammonia, nitrites, and nitrate. Do not add the fish until these measurements are stable at safe levels.
   • Your test kit can also measure water pH (acidity). Danios do best in water pH from 6.5-7.2.
6. Add freshwater salt (optional). Some hobbyists add freshwater aquarium salt to their tanks in small amounts, as directed on the product label. This is a little controversial among aquarium owners. A little salt can help the fish fight off disease, but too much can have unwelcome side effects.
   • Only use freshwater aquarium salt, not ordinary salt.
   • Do not add salt more than once between water changes. Salt does not leave the tank, so adding more can cause a lethal overdose.

EditCaring for Zebra Danios

1. Acclimate the fish. As with any fish, danios should be introduced to the new tank slowly. Turn off the aquarium lighting and slowly introduce the aquarium water to the new fish's environment. The drip tube or floating bag methods are both good options.
   • If you have a large tank, introduce the new fish two or three at a time. Wait a week or two between introducing groups. This minimizes the disruption to your tank's chemistry, as well as stress on the fish.
2. Keep them separate from aggressive fish. Zebra danios are not aggressive, so you can safely add smaller fish to the same tank. Avoid adding any aggressive fish species to the same tank.
   • Although zebra danios are peaceful, they are active swimmers. Some fish species may prefer a calmer environment.
   • Danios may be "fin-nippers", especially when they are not schooled with other fish.
   • A good aquarium store should have employees who can advise you on compatible species. Guppies, minnows, tetras, swordtails, corydoras (commonly cory cats), and betas are good examples.
3. Feed in small amounts only. Zebra danios do not need any special feeding care and are not picky eaters, but overfeeding is a common cause of problems for all aquarium fish. A fish's stomach is about the size of the fish's eye.
   • Each danio should only need a couple bites of food each feeding, 2–3 times per week, but can be fed each day if the other fish in the aquarium need feeding each day. Overfeeding can cause bloating as well as harmful chemical build-up in your water.
   • Only feed the fish as much food as they can eat in 3 minutes. This is a general rule for all freshwater aquarium fish.

EditTips

• Getting more information about the danios is very useful. The more you know, the easier it will be for you to keep them healthy and happy. If your danios seem lethargic or sick, seek advise from an aquarium store or online aquarium enthusiast community.

EditRelated wikiHows

• Grow Fish
• Breed Convict Cichlids
• Breed Danios

from How to of the Day http://ift.tt/1TL7y5M

How to Grow Long Hair if You Are a Black Female

As an African-American female, you may think that your hair is too fragile to grow long. Don't worry! You can grow long, lustrous hair if you're a black female by following the routines in this article.

EditSteps

EditTaking Care of Your Hair To Make It Grow

1. Condition your hair liberally. Black women tend to have curly new-growth. These curly roots make it difficult for your hair's natural oils to move down the hair shaft and moisturize the length of your hair.
   
   • Try co-washing (conditioner washing, using just conditioner instead of shampoo and conditioner). Some women do it weekly, some after 5 days, but not daily because product can dry your hair out. Some women also find that wash days take a lot of work and their hair takes forever to dry. Try co-washing weekly, and shampoo as needed but don't wait any longer than 4 weeks - so shampoo at least once a month. There are some women who do wash their hair every day, but with just water.
   • Deep condition with every wash. Deep conditioners containing olive, avocado or sweet almond oil work well. Play around with different products and see what works best for your hair personally. Don't be afraid to move out of the "ethnic" hair aisle.
     • Apply heat to your hair and wear a shower cap while you wait--heat activates the conditioner. You can sit under a hood dryer or wrap your head in a towel that has been soaked in hot (but not so hot as to burn you) water; or you can also let your body heat condition your hair. ^[1]
     • Avoid getting deep conditioner on your scalp. The conditioner can clog your pores and cause alopecia, clogged and inflamed hair follicles, hair loss.
2. Apply a moisturizer (which does not contain petroleum jelly, petrolatum or mineral oil) to your hair.
   
   • Wet your hair with water. Start about 1" (2.5 cm) away from the roots and apply the moisturizer all the way to the ends!
   • Moisturize daily or as your hair requires - you want your hair to feel soft and pliable. You may have to experiment to find what works for you.
   • Seal the moisture in. This can be done by using a natural oil like coconut oil, olive oil etc right after applying the moisturizer (which can be water) so even applying oil on damp hair without a moisturizer can work. Do it in sections, it is easier.
3. Squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel. If you have a terry cloth towel you must be sure to not stroke your hair with it, or else strands of hair will latch onto the textured fabric of the towel and as you bring your hand down you'll hear a lot of popping, which is the sound of the hair breaking off. To use the terry cloth, take a section of hair and with the towel over your hand grab the section and squeeze. You should feel the towel get drenched. Unclench the towel covered hand; don't slide it off.
4. Comb your hair carefully. Excessive brushing can strip the protective cuticle layer off of your hair.
   
   • Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb. Divide your hair into sections. Start combing at the ends and work your way up to the roots.
   • Don't be afraid to put down the comb. Sometimes if you hit a knot or if the hair has a very kinky texture, you just have to use your fingers and detangle manually. If there's a knot that you can't get out of your hair, add something to soften the hair like water or leave in conditioner to help take out the knot. If the knot still won't come loose, use a pair a good hair scissors to cut it out.
   • If you are trying to smooth your hairline, brush gently, use a soft boar bristle brush. If your edges still float or curl up off of your head, try wetting the hairline and taking a scarf or a durag and covering your head. Let it dry until you have a tamed hairline.
   • Experiment with whether it's best to do this when your hair is completely dry and moisturized, or if it's better to detangle while your hair is wet (you might find it's very easy for your hair to break or be pulled out from the roots if you detangle when dry).
5. Treat your hair from within by taking a multivitamin. Use a hair vitamin that will increase your hair growth rate and lengthen your natural anagenesis (growth phase).
   
6. Incorporate healthy habits.
   
   • Drink at least eight cups of water and eat healthy foods such as fish, fruits, vegetables and nuts.
   • Exercise regularly to increase circulation to your scalp.
   • Manage your stress with relaxation exercises or meditation. Stress can cause your hair to fall out.

EditKnow Your Hair Growth Timetable

1. Expect to wait about one to one and a half years for shoulder length growth if you start with a clean shave. African-American hair grows at the same rate as every other person's. You can expect growth of about 1/2" (13 mm) per month if you take great care of your hair.
   
2. Wait another 6 to 15 months for your hair to reach armpit length.
   
3. Add another 9 to 18 months to hit bra-strap length. Growing your hair until the ends hit your bra strap will take about 3 years total.
   
4. Expect hair growth to your waist to take 3 to 4+ years. Everyone's hair grows at a different rate. Make sure that you don't compare yourself to other people; you'll only get frustrated. Just keep taking care of your hair, and be patient. You'll get results.^[2]
   

EditStyling Your Hair While It Grows Out

1. Use protective styles that don't require you to constantly redo your hair. Some examples of good styles include twists or bantu knots.
   
   • Braid: do a simple braid from the top and when you finish, tie the end. You can also add a hair band.
   • Twists: Divide your hair into rows. Then divide each row that you just made into 2 separate sections.
     • Starting at your hairline, twist the 2 sections of the first row together.
     • Keep twisting your hair as you move toward the back of your head, grabbing a little more hair each time you go a little further down the row.^[3]
   • Bantu knots: Divide damp hair into sections, using a comb to create really precise parts.
     • Twist each section of hair into a "rope," working some gel or pomade into your hair as you twist it. Keep your hair taut until you've twisted the entire section into a rope.
     • Turn the rope a few more times until it starts to curl in on itself. Doing this will create a firm coil at the base.
     • Wrap the rope of hair around the base to create your knot. You can secure it by either tucking the ends under the knot, using pins or using elastics.^[4]
   • Be gentle and watch out for traction alopecia. It's the constant force being put on the hair follicle from wear styles that are too tight resulting in breakage and bald spots. The first sign will be pain at the site and inflammation of the hair follicle it'll feel like a bump. Take the hair out where you're suffering from the inflammation a let the hair 'breathe'.
   • Continue to care for your hair while it's in protective styles. The hair will still dry out and the scalp may need some TLC as well. Get a spray bottle and fill it with water, aloe vera juice, some natural oils (anything that will help to restore moisture) and spray it all over. If you have ample time, put your whole head under the shower head toward the beginning of the day and let your hair air dry the rest of the day. If protective styles are being worn for extended periods of time co-washing can also be done, but an application bottle may be needed to try and reach under braids.
2. Go natural. Natural hair can be long and beautiful if you know what you are doing. To straighten natural hair while protecting it from heat damage, blow dry your hair with a comb attachment and wet setting before you give it a quick sweep with a flat iron.
   
3. Get a Brazilian keratin treatment. It straightens your hair or loosens the curl with no chemicals. They start from about 1 day to 6 months. Afro hair is washed less often so the treatment will last more than the time said.
   
4. Use relaxer if you don't want to go natural. Relax your hair no more than once every 8 to 10 weeks, or 4 or 5 times per year. Remember that relaxers are harsh chemicals that can potentially damage your hair, it's good to limit them to prevent overlapping and over-processing.^[5]
   
   • Start by applying a scalp protector or petroleum jelly to your scalp and to your hair shaft. Apply the relaxer to your roots according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure to follow the leave-in time that's recommended on the product.
   • Wash out the relaxer in warm water with a neutralizing shampoo. Wash and rinse 3 times. The fourth time, leave the shampoo on for about 10 minutes before you rinse it off for the last time.
5. Use a protein reconstructor after you use relaxer. Both shampoo and relaxers will remove needed nutrients and shielding from your hair, leaving it dry and fragile. Protein reconstructor will help to prevent damage and will make your hair more resilient.
   
6. Clip your ends about every 8 weeks or every time you have your hair relaxed. When you have split ends and you don't cut them, they will continue to split all the way up your hair shaft, which will cause breakage. To keep your hair growth steady, avoid taking off more than 1 to 2" (2.5 to 5 cm) at a time.
   

EditTips

• Come up with a simple hair routine that you build on over time.
• Keep a hair diary. Sometimes you forget what worked and what didn't, a hair diary is great when you want to remember what you did last time on your hair and how your hair felt.
• Try to use a sulphate-free shampoo on shampoo days.
• Wrap your hair at night and cover it with any scarf for protection. If the scarf slips a lot, use a satin pillowcase.
• Comb your hair carefully.
• Make sure you have a healthy scalp.
• Stay away from heated tools like: straightener, curling iron, crimper, etc.
• Protein treatments along with deep conditioning twice a month will help your hair to grow healthy and long.
• Air dry your hair rather than blow-drying. Blow-drying adds more heat to your hair while combing breaks off your hair to.
• Try clipping ends every 2 to 3 months verses every 6 to 8 weeks. The key is to retain length.
• Make sure to let your hair relax after a long while of being up in a ponytail. If you lay back on your head with your hair in a ponytail, your hair could break off.
• Be patient! Your hair will grow in its own time.
• Consider wearing silk robes and shirts as well during the day. Walking around with your hair brushing against cotton shirts all the time can cause your hair ends to break off. If you do wear something besides silk, put your hair up in a protective style (bun or butterfly clip).
• Remember when you braid your hair too loosely, you may end up pulling out your fragile hair. Constantly moisturize your scalp and spray your hair with braid spray so that your braids don't dry out.
• Consider wigs, half wigs or clip in's as a style if your natural hair is too hard to manage while in the growing out transitioning phase.
• Try to avoid wearing a weave most of the time. Weaves can make the hair underneath dry and brittle if the hair underneath is not properly cared for. Weaves can also irritate your scalp by pulling on it. If you do want to wear a weave, try not to do it too often and try not to use glue-in weaves. As an alternative, use a sew-in weave.
• Oil your hair weekly with natural oils (ie. olive oil), or try the hot oil treatments.
• Do not comb your hair more than five times a day, as this can damage it.
• Don't use shampoos that will dry your hair. Shampoo may contain detergent.
• Try to take biotin it really helps. They come in pill or gummies.
• Put egg, avocado and almond oil. This actually helps to moisture the hair and gives a special type of protein that's essential to your hair's growth.
• Use natural products and shampoos that don't contain sulphate as this strips the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and more prone to breakage.
• Always use oil on your hair so your scalp would not be dry and bushy.

EditWarnings

• Keep heavy oils, "grease" and gels out of your hair. Gels tend to harden and break off hair, while heavy oils and "grease" take away volume and movement and prevent moisture from penetrating into the hair strand. Try to stick to light, natural oils.
• Avoid hair care products that contain alcohol. Check the ingredients for these words:
  • isopropyl alcohol
  • propylene glycol
  • mineral oil or petroleum
  • sodium lauryl sulfate
  • sodium laureth sulfate
  • chlorine
  • diethanolamine
  • Ethanolamine
  • triethanolamine
  • imidazolidinyl
  • urea DMDM hydantoin

EditThings You’ll Need

• Conditioner for daily use
• Deep conditioner
• Light protein conditioner
• Shampoo (can be sulfate free or not)
• Hooded dryer or hot towel
• Shower cap
• Blow dryer with comb attachment
• Flat iron
• Scalp protector
• Neutralizing shampoo
• Protein reconstructor/ Keratin treatment
• Moisturizer
• Leave-in conditioner
• Soft bristle brush
• Wide-tooth comb
• Multivitamin
• Folic Acid

EditRelated wikiHows

• Air Dry Relaxed Hair
• Apply a Hair Relaxer
• Take Care of Relaxed African Hair
• Be Proud to Be Black
• Take Care of Black Girls' Hair
• Be a Confident Beautiful Black Girl
• Grow Your Natural Hair (Black Girls)

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

from How to of the Day http://ift.tt/1QG1Pcl

How to Get an "A" in Geometry

Geometry is the study of shapes and angles and can be challenging for many students. Many of the concepts are totally new and this can lead to anxiety about the subject. There are a lot of postulates/theorems, definitions, and symbols to learn before geometry begins to make sense. Through combining good study habits and a few study pointers, you will have success in learning geometry.

EditSteps

EditGetting the Grade

1. Attend every class. Class is a time to learn new things and solidify the information that you may have learned in the previous class. If you don’t go to class, it is much more difficult to stay current with the material.
   
   • Ask questions in class. Your teacher is there to make sure you have a solid grasp on the material. If you have a question, don’t hesitate to ask it. Some of the other students in the class likely have the same question.
   • Prepare for class by reading the lesson you are going to cover ahead of time and know the formulas, theorems, and postulates by heart.
   • Pay attention to your teacher while you are in class. You can talk to your classmates at break or after school.
2. Draw diagrams. Geometry is the math of shapes and angles.^[1] To understand geometry, it is easier to visualize the problem and then draw a diagram. If you're asked about some angles, draw them. Relationships like vertical angles are much easier to see in a diagram, if one isn't provided, draw it yourself.
   
3. Form a study group. Study groups are a good way to learn the material and clarify concepts you don’t understand. Having a group that meets on a regular schedule will also force you to stay on top of the material and try your best to comprehend it. Studying with classmates is useful when you come across more difficult topics. You can work through them together to figure them out.
   
   • One of your study mates may understand something that you don’t and help you out with it. You might also be able to help them understand something and learn it better by teaching them.
4. Do all of the assigned homework. Homework is assigned because it helps you learn all of the concepts in the material. Doing the homework teaches you what you really understand and what topics you might need to put more time into.
   
   • If you come across a topic in your homework that you are struggling with, focus on that topic until you understand it. Ask you classmates or your teacher to help you out.
5. Teach the material. When you have a firm understanding of a topic or concept, you should be able to teach it to someone else. If you can’t explain it to them so that they also understand, you likely don’t get it as well as you thought either. Teaching material to others is also a good way to enhance your own memory or recall of the topic.^[2]
   
   • Try teaching your sibling or parent some geometry.
   • Take the lead in a study group to explain something you know really well.
6. Do lots of practice problems. Geometry is as much a skill as a branch of knowledge. Simply studying the rules of geometry will not be enough to get an A, you need to practice solving problems. This means doing your homework and working extra problems for any trouble areas.
   
   • Make sure to do as many practice problems as you can from other sources. Similar problems may be worded in a different way that might make more sense to you.
   • The more problems you solve, the easier it will be to solve them in the future.
7. Seek extra help. Sometimes going to class and talking to your teacher just isn’t enough. You might need to find a tutor who has more time to focus specifically on what you are struggling with. Working with someone one-on-one can be very useful in understanding difficult material.
   
   • Ask your teacher if there are tutors available through the school.
   • Attend any extra tutoring sessions held by your teacher and ask your questions.

EditLearning the Basics

1. Know Euclid’s five postulates of geometry. Geometry is founded upon the basis of five postulates put together by the ancient mathematician, Euclid.^[3] Knowing and understanding these five statements will help you understand many of the concepts in geometry.
   
   • 1. A straight line segment can be drawn joining any two points.
   • 2. Any straight line segment can be continued in either direction indefinitely in a straight line.
   • 3. A circle can be drawn around any line segment with one end of the line segment serving as the center point and the length of the line segment serving as the radius of the circle.
   • 4. All right angles are congruent (equal).
   • 5. Given a single line and a single point, only one line can be drawn directly through the point that will be parallel to the first line.
2. Understand the Pythagorean Theorem. The Pythagorean Theorem states that a² + b² = c².^[4] It is the formula that allows you to calculate the length of the side of a right triangle if you know the lengths of the other two sides. A right triangle is a triangle with a 90° angle. In the theorem, a and b are the opposite and adjacent (straight) sides of the triangle, while c is the hypotenuse (angled line) of the triangle.
   
   • For example: Find the length of the hypotenuse of a right triangle with side a = 2 and b =3.
   • a² + b² = c²
   • 2² + 3² = c²
   • 4 + 9 = c²
   • 13 = c²
   • c = √13
   • c = 3.6
3. Know the difference between similar and congruent shapes. Similar shapes are those that have identical corresponding angles and corresponding sides that are proportionally smaller or larger than each other. In other words, the polygon will have the same angles, but different side lengths. Congruent shapes are identical, they are the same shape and size.^[5]
   
   • Corresponding angles are identical angles in two shapes. In a right triangle, the 90 degree angles in both triangles are corresponding. The shapes do not have to be the same size for their angles to be corresponding.
4. Learn about complementary and supplementary angles. Complementary angles are those angles which add together to make 90 degrees, supplementary angles add to 180 degrees. Remember that vertical angles are always congruent, as are alternate interior and alternate exterior angles. Right angles are 90 degrees, while straight angles are 180.
   
   • Vertical angles are the two angles formed by two intersecting lines that are directly opposite each other.^[6]
   • Alternate interior angles are formed when two lines intersect a third line. They are on opposite sides of the line they both intersect, but on the inside of each individual line.^[7]
   • Alternate exterior angles are also formed when two lines intersect a third line. They are on opposite sides of the line they both intersect, but on the outside of each individual line.^[8]
5. Remember SOHCAHTOA. SOHCAHTOA is a mnemonic device used to remember the formulas for sine, cosine, and tangent in a right triangle. When you want to find the sine, cosine, or tangent of an angle, you use the following formulas: Sine = Opposite/Hypotenuse, Cosine = Adjacent/Hypotenuse, and Tangent = Opposite/Adjacent.^[9]
   
   • For example: Find the sine, cosine, and tangent of the 39° angle of a right triangle with side AB = 3, BC = 5 and AC = 4.
   • sin(39°) = opposite/hypotenuse = 3/5 = 0.6
   • cos(39°) = adjacent/hypotenuse = 4/5 = 0.8
   • tan(39°) = opposite/adjacent = 3/4 = 0.75

EditWriting a 2-Column Proof

1. Draw a diagram after reading the problem. Sometimes the problem will be provided without an image and you will have to diagram it yourself to visualize the proof. Once you have a rough sketch that matches the givens in a problem, you might need to re-draw the diagram so that you can read everything clearly and the angles are approximately correct.
   
   • Make sure to label everything very clearly based on the information provided.
   • The clearer your diagram, the easier it will be to think through the proof.
2. Make some observations about your diagram. Label right angles and equal lengths. If lines are parallel to each other, mark that down as well. If the problem does not explicitly state two lines are equal, can you prove that they are? Make sure you can prove all of your assumptions.
   
   • Write down the relationships between various lines and angles that you can conclude based on your diagram and assumptions.
   • Write down the givens in the problem. In any geometric proof, there is some information that is given by the problem. Writing them down first can help you think through the process needed for the proof.
3. Work the proof backwards. When you are proving something in geometry, you are given some statements about the shapes and angles, then asked to prove why these statements are true. Sometimes the easiest way to do this is to start with the end of the problem.^[10]
   
   • How does the problem come to that conclusion?
   • Are there a few obvious steps that must be proved to make this work?
4. Make a 2-column grid labeled with statements and reasons.^[11] In order to make a solid proof, you have to make a statement and then give the geometric reason that proves the truth of that statement. Underneath the statement column, you will write a statement such as angle ABC = angle DEF. Under the reason you will write the proof for this. If it is given, simply write given, otherwise, write the theorem that proves it.
   
5. Determine which theorems apply to your proof. There are many individual theorems in geometry that can be used for your proof. There are many properties of triangles, intersecting and parallel lines, and circles that are the basis for these theorems. Determine what geometric shapes you are working with and find the ones that apply to your proof. Reference previous proofs to see if there are similarities. There are too many theorems to list, but here are a few of the most important ones for triangles:^[12]
   
   • CPCTC: corresponding parts of the congruent triangle are congruent
   • SSS: side-side-side: if three sides of one triangle are congruent to three sides of a second triangle, then the triangles are congruent
   • SAS: side-angle-side: if two triangles have a congruent side-angle-side, then the two triangles are congruent
   • ASA: angle-side-angle: if two triangles have a congruent angle-side-angle, then the two triangles are congruent
   • AAA: angle-angle-angle: triangles with congruent angles are similar, but not necessarily congruent
6. Make sure your steps flow in a logical fashion. Write down a quick sketch of your proof outline. Write down the reasons for each step. Add the given statements where they belong, not just all at once in the beginning. Re-order the steps if necessary.
   
   • The more proofs you do, the easier it will be to order the steps properly.
7. Write down the conclusion as the last line. The final step should complete your proof, but it still needs a reason to justify it. When you have finished the proof, look it over and make sure there are no gaps in your reasoning. Once you have determined that the proof is sound, write QED at the bottom right corner to signify it is complete.
   

EditTips

• STUDY EVERY DAY. Review today's notes, yesterday's notes and always review what you have learned before so you don't forget any postulates/theorems, definitions or symbols/notations.
• Look at other websites and videos for things you don't understand.
• Keep flash cards with formulas on them to help you remember them and review them frequently.
• Get phone numbers and emails of several people in your geometry class so they can help you while you're studying at home.
• Take a class in the summer beforehand so you don't have to work hard during the school year.
• Meditate. This helps.

EditWarnings

• Do not procrastinate
• Do not cram.

EditThings You'll Need

• A Straight-Edge
• A Compass
• A Scientific Calculator
• Graph-paper
• A Protractor
• Pencils (all work should be done with pencil)
• A Highlighter
• Colored Pencils

EditRelated wikiHows

• Learn Trigonometry
• Do a Double Linear Interpolation
• Write a Congruent Triangles Geometry Proof
• Survive Geometry Class

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

from How to of the Day http://ift.tt/1LoFsft

How to Get Rid of Shoulder Ache

An achy shoulder is pretty common and can be triggered by numerous issues, including muscle strain, ligament sprain, joint dislocation, dysfunction in the spine (neck or mid-back), or even heart disease. However, the most common cause of shoulder ache is mildly pulled muscles and/or ligaments, usually from over-use at work or overdoing it with exercise.^[1] Most achy shoulders are self-limiting and resolve within a week — sometimes even quicker if you use helpful home remedies. For more severe shoulder injuries, professional help may be needed, including (in rare instances) surgery.

EditSteps

EditTreating Your Shoulder at Home

1. Rest your shoulder and be patient. In most cases, the cause of an achy shoulder is overuse or overexertion — in other words, repetitive shoulder motions or lifting things that are too heavy. If this sounds like the cause of your shoulder problem, then stop the irritating activity for a few days or so. If your shoulder injury is work related, then ask your boss if you can temporarily switch activities (to something less repetitive or demanding) or change work stations. If your shoulder injury is related to working out, then you may be lifting weights that are too heavy or training with bad form — talk to a personal trainer for advice.
   
   • Resting your shoulder is a good idea, but completely immobilizing it in a sling is not recommended for minor shoulder injuries — it can promote the development of "frozen" shoulder. At least some gentle shoulder movement is needed to encourage blood flow and stimulate healing.^[2]
   • Achy pain is usually indicative of a muscle pull, whereas sharp pain with movement is often caused by joint / ligament injuries.
   • Bursitis and tendon pain in the shoulder is usually worse at night while in bed.
2. Apply an icepack to your shoulder. If your achy shoulder looks or feels swollen, then apply an icepack (or something cold) to the most tender area in order to reduce the inflammation and numb the pain.^[3] Ice therapy is best for acute injuries that involve inflammation. Apply the icepack for about 15 minutes every couple of hours until the symptoms in your shoulder subside or go away.
   
   • Compressing the icepack against your shoulder with a Tensor or Ace bandage is even more effective at reducing inflammation.
   • Always wrap ice in a thin towel before you apply it to any injury — it prevents skin irritation and frostbite.
   • If you don't have ice cubes, then consider using a frozen gel pack or bag of veggies from the freezer.
3. Try applying moist heat instead. If your achy shoulder is chronic (long term) and feels particularly stiff first thing in the morning or prior to exercise, then apply moist heat to it instead of ice. Moist heat warms up the soft tissues (muscles, tendons and ligaments) and increases blood flow to the area, which can be helpful for achiness caused by osteoarthritis (the wear and tear type) or old sports injuries.^[4] Good sources of moist heat are microwavable bags filled with grains (usually wheat or rice), herbs and/or essential oils. Apply the heat for 15-20 minutes first thing in the morning or before exercise.
   
   • Taking a warm bath also provides moist heat. Add some Epsom salt for even more muscle relaxing and soothing potential.
   • Avoid dry heat from traditional heating pads because it can dehydrate soft tissues and increase the risk of injury.
4. Take over-the-counter pills. If your shoulder ache is too much to bear and isn't impacted significantly by the application of either cold therapy or moist heat, then consider taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or painkillers. Anti-inflammatories are most appropriate for significant shoulder swelling (such bursitis and tendonitis) and include aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). Painkillers (analgesics) are most appropriate for nondescript pain not caused by inflammation and include acetaminophen (Tylenol and Paracetamol). Remember that these medications are short-term solutions for shoulder pain and not meant for daily use beyond a few weeks due to their negative impact on the liver, kidneys and stomach.^[5]
   
   • Alternatively, you can try muscle relaxants (such as cyclobenzaprine) for your shoulder ache, but never take them together with other medications.
   • Ibuprofen is not appropriate for very young children, whereas acetaminophen is not recommended for those under the age of 18 due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
5. Do some simple shoulder stretches. Your shoulder ache may be caused by stiff and tight muscles, possibly due to poor posture or lack of use. As long as you don't feel sharp, electric or stabbing pain with shoulder movements, then light shoulder stretches are likely of benefit. Sore and tight muscles respond well to stretching because it reduces muscle tension, promotes blood flow and improves flexibility.^[6] Shoulder flexibility is important because it has the most range of motion of any joint in the body for a reason. Hold shoulder stretches for about 30 seconds while deeply breathing and do them 3-5x daily until the achiness diminishes.
   
   • While you're standing or sitting up, reach around the front of your torso and grab underneath the opposite elbow. Pull on the back of your flexed elbow across your torso until you feel a nice stretch in the corresponding shoulder.
   • Also while standing straight or sitting up, reach behind your back and up towards your shoulder blade and interlock with your other hand. Slowly pull down on the hand attached to the achy shoulder until you feel a stretch.
6. Consider changing your workstation. Your achy shoulder might be caused by a poorly designed work station. If your computer, desk and/or chair isn't positioned properly for your height and body type, it can put strain on your shoulders, neck and mid-back. As such, when sitting at your desk and looking straight ahead: your eyes should be looking at the top 1/3 of the monitor; your forearms should be roughly parallel with the floor when typing and supported by arm rests; your elbows should be within a few inches from your sides; and your feet should be positioned flat on the floor.^[7]
   
   • If you work standing up, make sure your body isn't constantly rotated or twisted — maintaining symmetry and balance is the key.
   • To prevent shoulder injury, minimize overhead work by using a taller ladder or getting closer to your task.

EditSeeking Professional Treatment

1. Get a deep tissue massage. If your shoulder ache is lingering longer than you'd anticipated, then consider a deep tissue massage from a qualified massage therapist. Deep tissue massage targets chronic muscle tightness and tension, which limits movement, reduces flexibility, hampers blood circulation and promotes inflammation.^[8] Massage is most helpful for mild-to-moderate muscle strains, but it's not recommended for more serious joint injuries.
   
   • Start with a 30 minute session focusing on your afflicted shoulder, but also including your lower neck and mid-back between your shoulder blades.
   • Allow the masseuse to go as deep as you can take it without wincing — there are many muscle layers in your shoulder that the therapist needs to access.
2. Get a referral to a physical therapist. If your achy shoulder is caused by overexertion or overuse, then consider making your shoulders stronger and more able to take the abuse with strength-building exercises. A physical therapist can show you specific and tailored strengthening exercises for your shoulders (utilizing machines, free weights, rubber bands and/or exercise balls) that will allow them to handle your work environment or better perform while exercising or playing sports.^[9] Furthermore, physical therapists are also trained to treat your achy muscles with therapeutic ultrasound or electronic muscle stimulation, if need be.
   
   • Physical therapy is typically needed 2-3x per week for 4-6 weeks to positively impact shoulder problems.
   • If your achy shoulder is caused by a joint sprain, then your physical therapist can help relieve the pain by taping the area with medical-grade tape.
   • Good strengthening activities for your shoulder include rowing, swimming, bowling and archery.
3. See an osteopath or chiropractor. If your achy pain is in someway joint related, a shoulder joint or spinal joint, then see an osteopath or chiropractor for a physical examination. Osteopaths and chiropractors are basically joint specialists who focus on establishing normal range of motion and function within the spine and peripheral joints, such as those that make up the shoulder.^[10] Shoulder pain can obviously be caused by the underlying joints (glenohumeral and/or acromioclavicular), but the perceived pain can also be referred from dysfunction or injury in the lower cervical spine (neck) or thoracic spine (mid-back). If need be, the involved joints can be unstuck or slightly repositioned by a manual adjustment, which usually creates a "popping" or "cracking" sound.
   
   • Although a single joint adjustment can sometimes significantly impact a musculoskeletal problem, more than likely it will take a few treatments to settle the area down.
   • Osteopaths and chiropractors can also use manual joint maneuvers to set a dislocated shoulder.
4. Consider acupuncture needle treatments. Acupuncture is a form of treatment developed many centuries ago, primarily in ancient China, designed mainly to reduce pain and stimulate healing.^[11] It involves sticking thin needles into the skin at specific points (sometimes close to the injured area, but often in distant areas of the body) for between 20-60 minutes at a time, which causes pain-reducing compounds to be released in the body. Acupuncture is not very well established by scientific studies to be able to help relieve most causes of shoulder pain, but there are many anecdotal reports that claim it can be very effective.^[12] Given it's excellent safety record, it may be worth a try if you can afford the out-of-pocket expense.
   
   • Acupuncture is practiced by a wide variety of medical people including some physicians, chiropractors and physiotherapists — whoever you decide on should be NCCAOM certified.
   • One acupuncture treatment may not make a significant impact on your shoulder pain, so consider at least 3 treatments before your render judgement on its effectiveness.
5. Talk to your doctor about more invasive options. If your achy shoulder does not respond to home remedies or other more conservative therapies, then talk to your family physician about more invasive treatments, such as corticosteroid injections and/or surgical options. A corticosteroid injection (such as prednisolone) into a swollen shoulder can quickly reduce the inflammation and pain, allowing for greater range of motion and function.^[13] Injections are most appropriate for severe tendonitis and bursitis. Surgery, on the other hand, is reserved for mending severed tendons, fractures, severe arthritis, blood clots, or draining accumulated fluid. Your doctor may need to refer you to a specialist for treatment, who may take an x-ray, bone scan, MRI or nerve conductance study to better understand your shoulder problem.
   
   • Possible complications of steroid injections include tendon / muscle atrophy and weakening, nerve damage and reduced immune function.
   • Possible complications from shoulder surgery include local infection, excessive bleeding, allergic reaction to anesthesia, nerve damage, paralysis, reduced movement fro scar tissue and chronic swelling / pain.
   • You may also consider a newer treatment, platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Platelets are found in your blood and have proteins which are essential to heal injuries.^[14] During this treatment, your blood will be drawn and the platelets separated, their concentration increased.^[15] The platelets will then be injected into the area where you are experiencing pain.

EditTips

• To minimize the ache in your shoulder, you may have to sleep on your back. In general, stomach sleeping often irritates the shoulder joints and lower neck.
• To avoid shoulder problems, avoid carrying bags that distribute weight unevenly across your shoulders. Instead, use a traditional backpack with well-padded straps.
• If your shoulder pain is severe or debilitating, and seemingly getting worse, then make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you can.
• Try treating shoulder pain by treating certain trigger points, such as using your hands or a trigger point ball.
• Avoid sleeping on your side with your shoulder pulled forward, as this can cause really bad shoulder pain through the night.
• If you sleep with the affected shoulder at top, place a pillow in front of you and rest your shoulder there. This can help prevent an overstretch of any pain causing muscles and ligaments in the shoulder

EditRelated wikiHows

• Improve Your Posture
• Fix a Dislocated Shoulder
• Build Shoulder Muscles
• Identify and Adjust a Crooked Shoulder

EditSources and Citations

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from How to of the Day http://ift.tt/1Sa9IfA