Precision is important when tapping letters or numbers with Windows Mobile-run smartphones. So while devices like the Verizon XV6800 let you tap selections using your finger or a stylus, a stylus works better (except for the HTC Touch, which is all about letting your fingers do the tapping), but from the Today screen and pull-down menus you may be able to make selections with your finger.

One variable with the touch screen is the alignment. With web surfing in particular we've found links aren't always as accurate as you might like. If you're finding the screen isn't responding, or isn't responding as you'd expect, try tapping or touching on the far left edge of the link text. We've found that area to most consistently result in a successful click.

If you're starting to sense that your taps are just always off, it may be time to re-align your screen. From the start menu select Settings, then tap (or use the buttons, depending on how bad the alignment's gotten) the System tab and open Screen.

When you then click on Align Screen, you'll be walked through a serious of alignment tests that require you to click in certain places. Tap through it and when you're done, your touch screen should be better able to give you what you want from a tap.