How to Transfer My Music From iTunes to My iPod

Share your iPod music with friends.

There are two ways to transfer music from iTunes to your iPod. One is fast and easy, but you'll only be able to use your iPod with one computer. The other offers more flexibility and will take a little longer to put music on your iPod. It's important that no matter which one you choose, you always follow Apple's guidelines on copyright laws and policies. Depending on the size of your iPod, this could take up to 30 minutes.

Things You'll Need

• iPod charger cord
• Computer with iTunes

Instructions

Automatic Sync: For a Single Computer

1. Plug in your iPod to your computer with its charger cord. Open iTunes if it doesn't open automatically.

2. Select "Erase and sync" if a box pops up prompting you to do so. This will automatically fill your iPod with music from your iTunes. It will erase anything on your iPod not on your computer, so this is not the option for you if you use multiple computers.

3. Click on the iPod icon on the left if iTunes didn't offer you the "Erase and sync" box. Click the "Music" tab at the top of the screen, then check "Sync music." Click "Apply" to sync music with your iPod.

Manual Sync: For Multiple Computers

1. Plug the iPod into the computer and open iTunes. If a box pops up asking you to sync automatically, click "Cancel."

2. Click on your iPod on the left in iTunes and click "Summary."

3. Check the box "Manually manage music," then click "Apply." You've successfully put your iPod into manual mode, which lets you use it with multiple computers.

4. Click "Music" in the top of the left bar for your main iTunes library. Select songs or playlists and drag them down to the iPod, then release the mouse right over the iPod. This will put the songs from your iTunes library onto the iPod.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your iPod plugged in. Don't touch it or the cord while it syncs.