If you're an iTunes amateur like me...

If you’re anything like me, then you understand how mind-boggling computers can be. Somehow I missed the tech-savvy gene. Lucky for me, Google is a powerful, powerful tool. I use it all the time. “What foods are rich in iron?” Google it. “How do I get to Bob’s Steakhouse?” Google it. “Why won’t this rash go away?” Google it; then see your doctor. But for some reason, I never think to use the All-Mighty Search Engine when I have questions about backing up files or updating a program. No, that’s when I call my computer science major boyfriend. Why bother to learn something for myself?

Now, iTunes is fairly basic. I know how to purchase music from the iTunes stores and import music from a CD. But then I got a laptop for college. Wanting to transfer my music, I confidently plugged my iPod into my laptop, clicked a button or two, and…my music was gone, banished into the murky depths of cyberspace. Apparently that happens when you introduce your iPod to a “new device.” Who knew?

Long story short: I recovered most of my albums and mourned those that were lost. When I enthusiastically and unashamedly purchased The Hunger Games soundtrack (2012) a few months ago, I received a warning about clearing my existing music—again. This time, I didn’t stand around waiting for someone to help me. Instead, I used Google and—wouldn’t you know?—I solved my problem all on my own!

So. Without further ado, this is how you transfer new music to your iPod from your old iTunes account while using a new computer. Er, or something along those lines…

1. If you haven’t already, upload your new song or album to your iPod music library. Before doing so, make sure your iPod is disconnected from your computer.

2. In the left toolbar, click on the name of your iPod under “Device” (Mine is oh-so-originally named Brittany)

3. You should see a summary of your iPod, including the sections entitled “iPod,” “Version,” and “Options.” Under “Options,” click “Manually manage music and videos.”

4. Breathe a little easier; your music will no longer vanish mysteriously!

5. Go back to the left toolbar. Under “Library,” click on “Music” and search for the new music you desire to sync to your iPod.

6. Now, go back to your iPod under “Device.” Click the arrow on the left side of the iPod icon, and you will see a list including “Music.”

7. Highlight the music you just searched for, click and drag it to the “Music” option under “Device.”

8. Voila! You can now sync your iPod, and listen to your new music on-the-go.