How to learn to live with unity and gnome3?

Question

linux

For me personally, the advent of Gnome3 and unity was a shock.
I have long been accustomed to using the gnome 2 + cairo dock bundle and it completely suited me, therefore, for the last N times, I have been building something similar to it from the available parts. However, this is not the question. This time I want to go the other way.
What tricks should be applied so that the use of Unity / Gnome3 does not cause pain?
Please respond to those who liked the new interfaces.
Introductory:
- laptops without a touch screen
- 2 monitors are used 80% of the time
- the need to frequently switch 3-4 open applications
- I used to keep some windows (console) not maximized, for quick switching to the underlying window
- the need for a notification area with blinking messengers, etc
- I love using the program menu and am not able to remember all the shortcuts
- I do not remember the names of all applications, but I successfully guess their purpose by name
- I do not like to run my eyes and mouse from end to end of the screen / screens
I would be grateful for advice in the spirit of “It’s better to do this not with tracing paper from a gnome2, but like this . And it will be comfortable."

Answer 1

why not switch to kde or xfce?

Answer 2

Local Launcher is just an analogue of the dock. You can quickly launch icons from it with a combination of super + number.
Switching programs alt-tab - like nothing has changed (only it has become more beautiful)?

Answer 3

I once configured everything according to this manual askubuntu.com/questions/58172/how-to-revert-to-gnome-classic

Answer 4

Try installing Mint Gnome Shell Extensions (MGSE).
With them, Gnome3 looks quite comfortable and friendly.

Answer 5

in minlinux now cinnamon is a replacement for the new gnome for many

Answer 6

ilyaplot.ru/posts/trej-v-ubuntu-12-04-unity/ Tray for unity.
Recently moved to it. I'm slowly getting used to it. Didn't work with multiple monitors, mostly quite satisfied. Quick access to the applications you need is always at hand through a convenient panel. Naturally, not without glitches, but quite usable.

Answer 7

Try AWN. I've been using it since 10.10. Perfectly survived consecutive upgrades to 12.04.
Lots of instructions on the net. For example: gmigdos.wordpress.com/2011/12/23/ubuntu-how-to-replace-unitys-launcher-with-avant-window-navigator/ Have
n't tried it with multiple monitors, but I think it should work fine.

Answer 8

I just installed gnome-panel in Ubuntu 12.04, installed the Ambiance theme from 11.10 (in 12.04 the theme is buggy). Switched to metacity and it turned out quite comfortable ala Gnome 2 workstation.
dl.dropbox.com/u/5847407/gnome-ubuntu-12-04.png
Two monitors at work. The inconvenience is only because of the lower resolution on the second. Well, in remmina, if you connect to a monitor wider than the main one, then part of the screen disappears. But I have such a rarity - if only I connect home.