Absolute Beginners Guide to Computer Basics (2nd Edition)

In This Chapter

• Exploring the Word Interface

• Working with Documents

• Working with Text

• Printing a Document

• Formatting Your Document

• Working with an Outline

• Working with Pictures

When you want to write a letter, fire off a quick memo, create a report, or create a newsletter, you use a type of software program called a word processor. For most computer users, Microsoft Word is the word processing program of choice. Word is a full-featured word processor, and it's included with Microsoft Office and many versions of Microsoft Works. You can use Word for all your writing needsfrom basic letters to fancy newsletters, and everything in between.

Word isn't the only word processor out there, of course. For very basic word processing, the Works Word Processor included in Microsoft Works is often adequate. And if you're not a Microsoft fan, Corel's WordPerfect offers the same kind of professional features you find in Microsoft Word, and works in a similar fashion. But it you want maximum document compatibility with your friends, family, and co-workers, Word is the way to go.