I’ve found this is one of the constants of the universe. Whenever you really, really need to print something, there’ll be a problem. Out of ink, maybe. Or possibly the printer just refuses to respond. Or, my favorite, it starts printing out random gibberish. Sure, you could take the time to figure out the problem — it’s probably not too terribly complicated — but the stress of having to get it done right now makes this a nigh impossible task.
So, here’s my practical advice:
- Have a backup plan if your printer doesn’t work. Maybe a friend near-by that can print for you, or a public printer (Kinkos, University library, etc).
- Keep a few extra ink cartridges around. Sure, they’re expensive as hell (HP is raking in the dough charging you a fortune for black ink), but price will be the last thing on your mind when you pull one out and save the freaking day.
- Most importantly: If at all possible, don’t wait until the last moment to print something! This is just a good idea in general. Don’t procrastinate and put off important things; the more time you leave yourself to do the project, the easier it’ll be to compensate for problems you run into along the way.
As I write this now, I’m already breaking rule 3. It’s a hard one to follow… (But Mike, you say, that essay isn’t due until tomorrow afternoon! Why should I finish it now?) Well, because it’s good for you. As Calvin’s dad would say, it builds character. Or something. Anyway, Univserity professors don’t take to kindly to “my printer broke.” Be warned.
or you could buy a printer that doesnt suck