How to Use Shortened URLs Safely

URL shorteners like bit.ly and TinyURL make long web addresses compact and easy to share. However, shortened URLs can also be used for phishing attacks and malware distribution if you don't take precautions. Here are some tips on how to use shortened URLs safely.

Check the Full URL Before Clicking

Never blindly click on a shortened URL. Many popular URL shorteners have a preview feature to show you the full destination URL:

- For bit.ly links, add a "+" to the end of the shortened URL. For example: http://bit.ly/2mXQFlG+

- For TinyURL links, add "preview." before the URL. For example: http://preview.tinyurl.com/yckmx7n8 

- You can also use online tools like GetLinkInfo.com to reveal the full URL.

Checking the full URL gives you visibility into the actual website you'll be directed to before clicking.

Be Wary of Suspicious Short Links

Shortened URLs are commonly used for phishing, spam, and malware distribution. Some signs a shortened URL may be suspicious:

- The link comes from an unknown or untrusted source

- The URL uses a strange short domain instead of popular ones like bit.ly

- Descriptive text doesn't match the website URL 

If in doubt, don't click on a suspicious short URL.

Use URL Shorteners Responsibly

If you need to create shortened URLs, be transparent so people know it's not spam.

- Use descriptive text with the short URL to indicate the destination 

- Shorten URLs from your own trustworthy domain instead of using third-party services

- Avoid shortening URLs that require logging into accounts 

With some caution and common sense, you can safely use shortened URLS while avoiding potential risks. Taking a few extra seconds to preview the full link can protect you from phishing or malware.

Use a URL checker. These are just a few of the sites that let you enter a short URL and then see the full URL:

getlinkinfo.com

unshorten.it

urlxray.com

https://checkshorturl.com

https://urlex.org

Few key points about shortened URL security

• Check the full URL before clicking on a shortened link. Many URL shorteners have a preview feature to reveal the destination. You can also use online tools to check the full URL.
• Consider alternatives before creating or sharing shortened URLs. Use descriptive text with the full URL when possible. Let people know they'll need to login if required.
• Malicious actors use shortened URLs for phishing and malware attacks. Be extra cautious with unfamiliar shortened links.
• Some common shortened URL domains like myumi.ch, michmed.org, and umicheng.in are used by U-M units and can be trusted.
• Always look before you click on a link and enter login credentials. Criminals use shortened URLs to hide malicious destinations.

So next time you come across a shortened URL, use these tips to preview it before clicking!

Visualizing Data with Excel's Graph Options

Excel offers a variety of graph and chart types that enable effective data visualization. Selecting the right graph type can help spotlight patterns, surface insights, and communicate trends. This blog post provides an overview of Excel's main graph options including column, line, pie, bar, area, scatter, stock, surface, and radar charts. It outlines the distinct purposes and uses of each graph type along with variations like stacked, clustered, and 100% stacked. The post explains when to use certain chart types based on the type of data and relationships you want to highlight. For example, column charts are ideal for time trends and comparisons, pie charts show part-to-whole relationships, line graphs visualize continuous trends, and scatter plots depict correlations. Examples demonstrate how tailoring graph type to your data allows creating more meaningful and engaging data visualizations. The article aims to help readers master Excel's graphs in order to build customized, insightful charts that bring workbook data to life.

Excel provides a variety of graph and chart types to help you visualize your spreadsheet data. Choosing the right graph type can make trends, patterns and insights leap off the page. In this post, we'll explore the main graph options available in Excel and when to use each one.

Column Charts

Column charts use vertical bars to compare values across categories. They are ideal for showing trends over time or comparing metrics across items. Some variations include:

- Clustered column - Each category gets its own column. Good for direct comparisons.

- Stacked column - Segments in each column stack on top of each other. Useful for part-to-whole comparisons.

- 100% stacked column - Each column adds up to 100%. Compares contribution of pieces to the whole.

Line Charts 

Line charts connect data points to show a continuous trend. Use them to track changes over time and observe trends. Options include:

- Basic line - Each line represents one data series.

- Stacked line - Displays cumulative totals at each point.

- 100% stacked line - Shows percentage contribution to the whole.

Pie Charts

Pie charts depict how data slices or percentages contribute to a whole. They spotlight the size of components and comparisons between them.

Bar Charts 

Bar charts are like column charts turned horizontally. They can be used when you have long category names. Includes stacked and clustered variations.

Area Charts 

Area charts are line charts where the area under each line is shaded in. Useful for comparing quantities that rise and fall over time.

Scatter Plots

Scatter plots show the relationship between two variables as data points on an X-Y axis. Helpful for visualizing correlations.

Stock Charts

Specialized stock charts like candlestick, high-low-close, and open-high-low-close charts summarize price movements. Tailored for stock market data.

Surface Charts 

Surface charts are 3D graphs used to find optimum combinations between two sets of data. The peaks help identify values where a result is maximized.

Radar Charts

Radar charts have spokes like a radar screen to compare metrics for different items on multiple measures. Allows seeing strong and weak areas at a glance.

By mastering these graph types, you can create more meaningful and customized Excel charts to extract insights from your data. The right visualizations can make numbers more engaging and easier to absorb. Let Excel turn your worksheets into dashboards that tell a story!

how to create a consistent writing habit

# How to Create a Consistent Writing Habit

Writing on a regular basis can seem daunting, but it is one of the most beneficial habits you can develop. Whether you want to become a professional writer or simply wish to journal your thoughts, a consistent writing habit allows you to sharpen your skills and unleash your creativity. Here are some tips to help you build a sustainable writing routine:

## Start Small

When beginning a writing habit, start by setting small, achievable goals. Decide on a reasonable word count or time limit that fits your current schedule. For example, commit to writing 250 words or for 30 minutes every day. Once this becomes routine, you can gradually increase your goal over time. Small steps prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.

## Set a Schedule 

Choose a specific time of day to write and stick to it. Many writers find success first thing in the morning when their mind is fresh and distraction-free. Find a time that works for you. The key is consistency, so pick a time you can commit to every day. Use reminders to help build the habit. 

## Eliminate Distractions

Unplug from the internet, silence your phone, and minimize interruptions during your designated writing time. Being disciplined will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the writing process. If inspiration strikes, let yourself go overtime. The more often you write without distractions, the easier it becomes.

## Find Accountability  

Share your writing goals with a supportive friend or join a writers group. Having someone check in reinforces accountability. You can exchange progress, give feedback, or even set shared deadlines. Collaborating with others provides motivation to continue.  

## Reward Yourself

Acknowledge your wins, both big and small. Celebrate when you meet daily goals or finish an essay. Treat yourself to something special as a reward. Positive reinforcement cements habits. Seeing your skills improve over time is the ultimate motivation to keep writing consistently.

With dedication and patience, your writing habit will soon become second nature. A regular writing practice unlocks avenues for creative expression while honing your craft. Try these tips, and you’ll be on your way to achieving writing success.