Copywriter, technical writer, translator (FR>EN, ES>EN, IT>EN), journalist

TechnoZen

The still-solid 2018 Toyota Corolla SE CVT

Carmakers strive to deliver category-busting models at an ever-increasing rate. Those efforts have resulted in many interesting vehicles on our roads. Those same carmakers also recognize the value in delivering models that consumers have always (will always?) find appealing. The economical four-door sedan is one such staple. Popular models have

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Editing screencasts using a Mac – Part 2 of Creating screencasts using a Mac

In a previous blog post, I described the process of recording my first screencast using only tools that are free with the Mac. The screencast captured audio and video as I narrated what I did on screen. Contents of my screencast I recorded the screencast as a series

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SUV as cruising sedan: the 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited AWD

Some days, you need to haul a few more things than you might have room for in an ordinary vehicle. That IKEA chair a friend gave you fully assembled, because she lost the instructions and the box. Four guys and their hockey gear. You know the situation. Those days turned

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Recording screencasts using a Mac: Part 1 of Creating screencasts using a Mac

Why buy third-party software when all you need is on the Mac? That was the theme for a series of eight technology videos I produced. These videos were my assignment in a university course about computer-aided technology (CAT) tools. (I’m pursuing an accelerated B.A. in translation (French to

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The peppy, perfect 2018 Mazda CX-3

Maybe you want a hatchback, but with all-wheel drive. Or perhaps a compact SUV that’s a little smaller and offers better fuel economy. If this sounds like you, rest assured: there’s a Mazda CX-3 that will fit your needs. First impressions This is a competitive segment, and Mazda has upped

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Extending the macOS Dictionary.app

Two weeks ago, I covered the basics of using Apple’s Dictionary.app. What I wrote covers the bases for my work as a journalist, technical writer and automotive reviewer. But as a translator, I need references that cover different languages. Fortunately, Apple enables me to look up terms in

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The “miniest” of minivans? The 2018 Honda Fit

Decades ago, Honda branched out into upscale vehicles. It has long had a reputation for quick cars too. But at its core, the Japanese automaker is still widely regarded as a leading manufacturer of practical economy vehicles. I reacquainted myself with that legacy during a week with

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Using built-in dictionaries in macOS

On any given workday, I wear one or more of the following hats: journalist, technical writer, translator, automotive reviewer, editor, student. The written word follows me all day long (or do I follow it?) My grasp of grammar and vocabulary are good, but there’s always room for

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The Lexusification of the 2018 Toyota Camry XLE V6

Few cars have spent so much time at or near the top of North American automotive sales charts. When I recently drove one of these, I realized Toyota hasn’t rested on its laurels. I enjoyed the increasing Lexusification of the 2018 Camry XLE V6. First impressions The new Camry,

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Bringing (Honda) Clarity to the road

Automakers the world over are working towards corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards. Bettering the fuel consumption numbers across their fleets has resulted in hybridized existing models and new hybrid vehicles to choose from. Honda’s 2018 Clarity Plug-in Hybrid falls into the latter category. From traditional hybrid to

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