Although newer versions of the iPod are capable of playing videos and running applications, the iPod is still primarily a music-playing device. After installing the iTunes software, which is available as a free download from Apple's website, you can add MP3 files to your music library. Once a song or album has been added to your iTunes library, it can be transferred to your iPod using the iPod USB cable.

Download the iTunes 8 software from the Apple website (see Resources for link) and install it on your Mac or PC computer.

Open the iTunes application by clicking on the Dock icon on a Mac or the "Start" menu icon on a PC.

Go to the "File" menu at the top of the screen and choose the "Add to Library" option.

Navigate to the location of the MP3 files that you want to put on your iPod, highlight the file names and click "Open." The selected MP3 files will now be transferred to your iTunes library.

Connect your iPod to your Mac or PC computer using the iPod USB cable.

Go to "Music" under the "Library" heading on the left side of the iTunes window and find the MP3 songs that you want to put on your iPod.

Drag the songs to the iPod icon underneath the "Devices" heading to copy the MP3 files to your iPod.

Things You Will Need

  • iPod Classic, Touch or Nano

  • iPod USB cable

  • Mac or PC computer