How Do I Download Songs to an iPod Using iTunes?

iTunes is the software package that's used to manage music and other media on your computer and your iPod. Its primary function is to purchase and import music, convert it if necessary, then transfer it onto your iPod for later viewing/listening. You can either import existing MP3 files, or other types of music files, rip music from a CD, or buy music from the iTunes store. To buy music, you'll need a valid credit card or an iTunes gift certificate.

Things You'll Need

• iTunes account with credit card or gift card balance (optional)
• Music CD (optional)

Instructions

Ripping Music From CDs

1. Open your computer's CD drive and insert a music CD. Close the drive.

2. Open iTunes and click "Yes" on the pop-up window and wait for all songs to rip to the hard drive.

3. Plug your iPod into the USB connector and plug the cable into the computer. Wait for your iPod to appear in the Devices list on the left-hand side of the iTunes window.

4. Click "Library" and select the songs you want to transfer to your iPod. Hold down the "Control" button and click the mouse to select multiple songs at once. When you've selected all the music you want, drag it onto your iPod's menu item in the left-hand pane.

5. Wait for the sync process to complete. When it's finished, unplug your iPod from the USB connector.

Importing Music Files

1. Open iTunes. Click "File," then "Add Folder to Library." Navigate to the folder that holds the music files you want to add, then click "OK." Wait for the Library to update.

2. Plug your iPod into the USB connector and plug the cable into the computer. Wait for your iPod to appear in the Devices list on the left-hand side of the iTunes window.

3. Click "Library" and select the songs you want to transfer to your iPod. Hold down the "Control" button and click the mouse to select multiple songs at once. When you've selected all the music you want, drag it onto your iPod's menu item in the left-hand pane.

4. Wait for the sync process to complete. When it's finished, unplug your iPod from the USB connector.

Purchasing Music from the iTunes Store

1. Open iTunes. Enter a song or album you want to buy in the "Search Store" box, then press "Enter." When you find a song or album you want, click the "buy" button.

2. Enter your ID and password, then click "OK." Wait for the song or songs to download to your Library.

3. Plug your iPod into the USB connector and plug the cable into the computer. Wait for your iPod to appear in the Devices list on the left-hand side of the iTunes window.

4. Click "Library" and select the songs you want to transfer to your iPod. Hold down the "Control" button and click the mouse to select multiple songs at once. When you've selected all the music you want, drag it onto your iPod's menu item in the left-hand pane.

5. Wait for the sync process to complete. When it's finished, unplug your iPod from the USB connector.

Tips & Warnings

• Songs on iTunes are cheap, but they can add up quickly. Be mindful of the money you're spending, and don't buy more than you can afford.

References

• Apple Support: Adding Music and Other Content to iTunes
• Apple Support: How to Browse and Buy Content From the iTunes Store