Cell phones are very useful in today's time. From flip phones to camera phones, all the way to a phone with music, Internet and a camera.
Cellular phones are a must for teenagers and adults alike, and it's getting to the point where younger children feel they need them, too. If you're a little behind the times, you can improve and know how to use one when you need to.
Steps
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1
Research the local providers in your area. This depends on your region and includes numerous brands. Look at different service contracts.
Research the local providers in your area.
- How many minutes are offered per month? How much does it cost to go over the maximum?
- What features are available? What services cost extra?
- Is coverage and service available in the area where you live and areas where you travel regularly?
- How long is the initial contract? Does it include a phone, or will you purchase that separately?
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2
Consider using your local phone company and adding the cell phoneto your home phone bills and see if there are any discounts. Otherwise, find a company with the features you like, make sure their service is good in your area, and try to get a company your friends have because many offer free mobile to mobile minutes which could be helpful.
Consider using your local phone company and adding the cell phone to your home phone bills and see if there are any discounts.
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3
Purchase a cell phone and associated plan. If you have bad credit or you simply want to try having a cell phone without signing up for a long contract, you may want a prepaid or pay-as-you-go plan.
Purchase a cell phone and associated plan.
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4
Gather up a list of numbers of people you talk to on a regular basis.
Gather up a list of numbers of people you talk to on a regular basis.
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5
Input these numbers with the number keypad. If they are out of the area code you are in, add their area code. Your phone should come with a manual with specific details on how to input numbers.
Input these numbers with the number keypad.
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6
Dial numbers directly. If you know a number, you can punch it in. Some cell phones "know" what area code they are in, so dialing a "1" may not be necessary.
Dial numbers directly.
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7
Choose or dial the number and push the "send" or "call" button (often indicated with green lettering or symbols). This starts the call. Proceed as with any other phone call.
Choose or dial the number and push the "send" or "call" button (often indicated with green lettering or symbols).
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8
End the call by pushing "end" (often indicated with red lettering or symbols). Calls will usually end automatically after the person you spoke to hangs up, but it's best to get into the habit of hanging up, especially since calls are billed by the minute.
End the call by pushing "end" (often indicated with red lettering or symbols).
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9
Read your user manual for specifics to your phone and plan. Even if you don't read the whole thing, learn how to:
Read your user manual for specifics to your phone and plan.
- check your messages
- return a call
- add a phone number to your phone both manually and after someone has called you
- send and receive text messages (optional). Keep in mind that text messages cost extra in many plans.
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10
Charge your phone regularly by plugging it in with a charger.
Charge your phone regularly by plugging it in with a charger.
- Car chargers are available that plug into the cigarette lighter, but most only work when the car is turned on and running.
- Most phones have a battery life indicator and will beep or alarm when the battery is very low.
- Check your cell phone's manual for any additional features that it may have.
- Try speed dial, if you have it. Speed dial is simply for you to call a number without going through your phone book or contact list, it’s when your press a simple number. For example: if your daughter is on speed dial #2, you will just simply press the number and her number will come up.
- Lock your keypad when you're not using the phone, or let it auto-lock. Locking the keypad simply means that you have to press a certain key sequence to use the phone. It's not for security; it's to prevent dialing wrong numbers accidentally if something presses against the keypad while it's in your purse or pocket.
- Remember that with most plans, you use minutes any time you use the cell phone, including checking voice mail, receiving phone calls, calling someone who didn't answer, and so on.
- Most "free" cell phones aren't really free. They require a 1-2 year contract and have early termination fees. If the contract you want comes with a phone, fine.
- Remember you will pay sales tax even if the phone is free and most have rebates.
- Avoid dropping your phone or having it near water, otherwise your phone may get damaged.
- Avoid driving and talking on your cell phone at the same time, especially if you are just learning to use. Pull over, use a hands-free set, or find some other place to talk. Check the laws for your area and know what they say about talking while driving.
