How to convert mp3 & CD Audio Files to IPod format (AAC, m4a) and play

1. Connect iPod to your PC. If your iTunes does not launch automatically, start it manually from "All Programs".

2. It will ask whether you want to sync your iPod to your PC or Library. Click yes. You won't see much happening the first time you connect to a new PC. So don't worry.

3. In the left side panel of iTunes there is a "Library" Folder under which you have "Music" sub folder. Any .AAC or .m4a files you see in this folder can be simply selected, copied and pasted in your IPod Folder (these are the default iPod playable audio formats) and played. This folder is below library folder. Use Edit Menu to copy and paste. To know the format of songs refer para 5 below.

4. To import a new song into your Music folder Click File Menu in iTunes and then Import. Whatever folder opens point it your source folder (CD Drive, .mp3 files folder in your PC or iPod Drive listed in My Computer) and select the song(s).

5. After the songs start showing in your "Music" folder of ITunes, you have to know which format they are currently in. Go to view menu in Itunes and click "View Options". Make sure "Kind" option is checked and the format will become visible. Your list of songs would now have a column called "Kind".

6. Select the song(s) by clicking on them (use Shift/control button to select multiple songs). Now right click and choose "Convert selection to AAC". Wait for the process to complete (Top bar of iTunes shows the progress). Now you have the songs in iTunes format but they are still in your Music Folder of ITunes (Default location: My Documents > My Music > iTunes > iTunes Music) on your PC and not in iPod.

7. Now copy and paste (Use Edit Menu of iTunes) the song(s) to IPod Folder and you are done.

8. Happy listening!