Amanda Smith is a freelance journalist and writer. She reports on culture, society, human interest and technology. Her stories hold a mirror to society, reflecting both its malaise and its beauty.

The Trump administration pulled the plug on IRS Direct File, a pilot program allowing taxpayers to file federal tax returns for free. But there are still many no-cost filing options available, ...

I don’t need tabs, sessions, or extra clutter in a tool I open for two seconds. Notepad++ stays fast, simple, and doesn't ...

Using Science to Improve the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program: A Way Forward reviews the science that underpins the Bureau of Land Management's oversight of free-ranging horses and burros on federal ...

Join the growing club of cord-cutters with cable TV alternatives for sports fans, savings seekers, customized options — and best all-around. Updated for 2026.

Jason Chun is a CNET writer covering a range of topics in tech, home, wellness, finance and streaming services. He is passionate about language and technology, and has been an avid writer/reader of ...