Computers English L2 Infonew

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Francis Tshimanga Ngoyi Créqui Computer English 1: For First Year Students
COURSE OUTLINE
INTRODUCTION: Aims of the course
CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS
CHAPTER II: PARTS OF A COMPUTER
CHAPTER III: USING YOUR MOUSE
CHAPTER IV: USING YOUR KEYBOARD
INTRODUCTION: Aims of the course
This course aims to provide students with some notions of English in the field of computer
science in order to allow them to communicate in this domain. Accordingly, it first gives
them a wide introduction to computers where they learn the history of computing in general
and various kinds of computers to date. Next, the course explores different parts of a
computer before addressing more practical issues regarding the use of both mouse and
keyboard.
At the end of this course, a successful student is expected to
(1) discuss the history of computing and various types of computers;

(2) describe different parts of a computer
(3) explain how to use a computer mouse and keyboard.
In short, the successful student will be able to communicate in English, using the topics
covered in the present course.
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CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS
1.1. What are computers?
Computers are machines that perform tasks or calculations according to a set of instructions,
or programs. The first fully electronic computers, introduced in the 1940s, were huge
machines that required teams of people to operate. Compared to those early machines, today's
computers are amazing. Not only are they thousands of times faster, they can fit on your
desk, in your lap, or even in your pocket.
Computers work through an interaction of hardware and software. Hardware refers to the
parts of a computer that you can see and touch, including the case and everything inside it.
The most important piece of hardware is a tiny rectangular chip inside your computer called
the central processing unit (CPU), or microprocessor. It's the "brain" of your computer—the
part that translates instructions and performs calculations. Hardware items such as your
monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, and other components are often called hardware devices,
or devices.
Software refers to the instructions, or programs, that tell the hardware what to do. A word
processing program that you can use to write letters on your computer is a type of software.
The operating system (OS) is software that manages your computer and the devices
connected to it. Two well-known operating systems are Windows and Mac OS.
ENIAC
Introduced in 1946, ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was the first
general-purpose electronic computer. It was built for the United States military to calculate
the paths of artillery shells. Physically, ENIAC was enormous, weighing more than 27,000
kilograms (60,000 pounds) and filling a large room. To process data, ENIAC used about
18,000 vacuum tubes, each the size of a small light bulb. The tubes burned out easily and
had to be constantly replaced.
1.2. Types of computers
Computers range in size and capability. At one end of the scale are supercomputers, very
large computers with thousands of linked microprocessors that perform extremely complex
calculations. At the other end are tiny computers embedded in cars, TVs, stereo systems,
calculators, and appliances. These computers are built to perform a limited number of tasks.
The personal computer, or PC, is designed to be used by one person at a time. This chapter
describes the various kinds of personal computers: desktops, laptops, handheld computers,
and Tablet PCs.
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1. Desktop computers
Desktop computers are designed for use at a desk or table. They are typically larger and more
powerful than other types of personal computers. Desktop computers are made up of separate
components. The main component, called the system unit, is usually a rectangular case that
sits on or underneath a desk. Other components, such as the monitor, mouse, and keyboard,
connect to the system unit.
2. Laptop computers
Laptop computers are lightweight mobile PCs with a thin screen. They are often called
notebook computers because of their small size. Laptops can operate on batteries, so you can
take them anywhere. Unlike desktops, laptops combine the CPU, screen, and keyboard in a
single case. The screen folds down onto the keyboard when not in use.
3. Handheld computers
Handheld computers, also called personal digital assistants (PDAs), are battery-powered
computers small enough to carry almost anywhere. Although not as powerful as desktops or
laptops, handhelds are useful for scheduling appointments, storing addresses and phone
numbers, and playing games. Some have more advanced capabilities, such as making
telephone calls or accessing the Internet. Instead of keyboards, handhelds have touch screens
that you use with your finger or a stylus (a pen-shaped pointing tool).
4. Tablet PCs
Tablet PCs are mobile PCs that combine features of laptops and handhelds. Like laptops,
they're powerful and have a built-in screen. Like handhelds, they allow you to write notes or
draw pictures on the screen, usually with a tablet pen instead of a stylus. They can also
convert your handwriting into typed text. Some Tablet PCs are “convertibles” with a screen
that swivels and unfolds to reveal a keyboard underneath.
1.3. What can you do with computers?
In the workplace, many people use computers to keep records, analyze data, do research, and
manage projects. At home, you can use computers to find information, store pictures and
music, track finances, play games, and communicate with others—and those are just a few of
the possibilities.
You can also use your computer to connect to the Internet, a network that links computers
around the world. Internet access is available for a monthly fee in most urban areas, and
increasingly, in less populated areas. With Internet access, you can communicate with people
all over the world and find a vast amount of information.
Here are some of the most popular things to do with computers:

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1. The web
The World Wide Web (usually called the Web, or web) is a gigantic storehouse of
information. The web is the most popular part of the Internet, partly because it displays most
information in a visually appealing format. Headlines, text, and pictures can be combined on
a single webpage - much like a page in a magazine - along with sounds and animation. A
website is a collection of interconnected web pages. The web contains millions of websites
and billions of web pages.
Surfing the web means exploring it. You can find information on the web about almost any
topic imaginable. For example, you can read news stories and movie reviews, check airline
schedules, see street maps, get the weather forecast for your city, or research a health
condition. Most companies, government agencies, museums, and libraries have websites with
information about their products, services, or collections. Reference sources, such as
dictionaries and encyclopedias, are also widely available.
The web is also a shopper's delight. You can browse and purchase products—books, music,
toys, clothing, electronics, and much more—at the websites of major retailers. You can also
buy and sell used items through websites that use auction-style bidding.
For information about how to explore the Internet and the web, see Exploring the Internet.
2. E-mail
E-mail (short for electronic mail) is a convenient way to communicate with others. When you
send an e-mail message, it arrives almost instantly in the recipient's e-mail inbox. You can
send e-mail to many people simultaneously, and you can save, print, and forward e-mail to
others. You can send almost any type of file in an e-mail message, including documents,
pictures, and music files. And with e-mail, you don't need a stamp. For more information, see
Getting started with e-mail.
3. Instant messaging
Instant messaging is like having a real-time conversation with another person or a group of
people. When you type and send an instant message, the message is immediately visible to all
participants. Unlike e-mail, all participants have to be online (connected to the Internet) and
in front of their computers at the same time. Communicating by means of instant messaging
is called chatting.
4. Pictures, music, and movies
If you have a digital camera, you can move your pictures from the camera to your computer.
Then you can print them, create slide shows, or share them with others by e-mail or by
posting them on a website. (To learn more about what you can do with photos, see Working
with digital pictures) You can also listen to music on your computer, either by importing
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(transferring to your computer) music from audio CDs or by purchasing songs from a music
website; or, tune in to one of the thousands of radio stations that broadcast over the Internet.
If your computer comes with a DVD player, you can watch movies.
5. Gaming
Do you like to play games? Thousands of computer games in every conceivable category are
available to entertain you. Get behind the wheel of a race car, battle frightening creatures in a
dungeon, or control civilizations and empires! Many games allow you to compete with other
players around the world through the Internet. Windows includes a variety of card games,
puzzle games, and strategy games (see Learn about Windows games).
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CHAPTER II: PARTS OF A COMPUTER
If you use a desktop computer, you might already know that there isn't any single part called
the "computer." A computer is really a system of many parts working together. The physical
parts, which you can see and touch, are collectively called hardware. (Software, on the other
hand, refers to the instructions, or programs, that tell the hardware what to do.)
The illustration below shows the most common hardware in a desktop computer system.
Your system may look a little different, but it probably has most of these parts. A laptop
computer has similar parts but combines them into a single notebook-sized package.
Let's take a look at each of these parts.
2.1. System unit
The system unit is the core of a computer system. Usually it's a rectangular box placed on or
underneath your desk. Inside this box are many electronic components that process
information. The most important of these components is the central processing unit (CPU), or
microprocessor, which acts as the "brain" of your computer. Another component is random
access memory (RAM), which temporarily stores information that the CPU uses while the
computer is on. The information stored in RAM is erased when the computer is turned off.
Almost every other part of your computer connects to the system unit using cables. The
cables plug into specific ports (openings), typically on the back of the system unit. Hardware
that is not part of the system unit is sometimes called a peripheral device or device.
2.2. Storage
Your computer has one or more disk drives—devices that store information on a metal or
plastic disk. The disk preserves the information even when your computer is turned off.
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1. Hard disk drive
Your computer's hard disk drive stores information on a hard disk, a rigid platter or stack of
platters with a magnetic surface. Because hard disks can hold massive amounts of
information, they usually serve as your computer's primary means of storage, holding almost
all of your programs and files. The hard disk drive is normally located inside the system unit.
2. CD and DVD drives
Nearly all computers today come equipped with a CD or DVD drive, usually located on the
front of the system unit. CD drives use lasers to read (retrieve) data from a CD, and many CD
drives can also write (record) data onto CDs. If you have a recordable disk drive, you can
store copies of your files on blank CDs. You can also use a CD drive to play music CDs on
your computer.
DVD drives can do everything that CD drives can, plus read DVDs. If you have a DVD
drive, you can watch movies on your computer. Many DVD drives can record data onto
blank DVDs.
Tip
• If you have a recordable CD or DVD drive, periodically back up (copy) your

important files to CDs or DVDs. That way, if your hard disk ever fails, you won't lose
your data.
3. Floppy disk drive
Floppy disk drives store information on floppy disks, also called floppies or diskettes.
Compared to CDs and DVDs, floppy disks can store only a small amount of data. They also
retrieve information more slowly and are more prone to damage. For these reasons, floppy
disk drives are less popular than they used to be, although some computers still include them.
Why are floppy disks "floppy"? Even though the outside is made of hard plastic, that's just
the sleeve. The disk inside is made of a thin, flexible vinyl material.
2.3. Mouse
A mouse is a small device used to point to and select items on your computer screen.
Although mice come in many shapes, the typical mouse does look a bit like an actual mouse.
It's small, oblong, and connected to the system unit by a long wire that resembles a tail. Some
newer mice are wireless.
A mouse usually has two buttons: a primary button (usually the left button) and a secondary
button. Many mice also have a wheel between the two buttons, which allows you to scroll
smoothly through screens of information.
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Mouse pointers
When you move the mouse with your hand, a pointer on your screen moves in the same
direction. (The pointer's appearance might change depending on where it's positioned on your
screen.) When you want to select an item, you point to the item and then click (press and
release) the primary button. Pointing and clicking with your mouse is the main way to
interact with your computer. For more information, see Using your mouse.
2.4. Keyboard
A keyboard is used mainly for typing text into your computer. Like the keyboard on a
typewriter, it has keys for letters and numbers, but it also has special keys:
• The function keys, found on the top row, perform different functions depending on
where they are used.
• The numeric keypad, located on the right side of most keyboards, allows you to enter
numbers quickly.
• The navigation keys, such as the arrow keys, allow you to move your position within
a document or webpage.
You can also use your keyboard to perform many of the same tasks you can perform with a
mouse. For more information, see Using your keyboard.
2.5. Monitor
A monitor displays information in visual form, using text and graphics. The portion of the
monitor that displays the information is called the screen. Like a television screen, a
computer screen can show still or moving pictures.
There are two basic types of monitors: CRT (cathode ray tube) monitors and LCD (liquid
crystal display) monitors. Both types produce sharp images, but LCD monitors have the
advantage of being much thinner and lighter. CRT monitors, however, are generally more
affordable.
LCD monitor (left); CRT monitor (right)
2.6. Printer
A printer transfers data from a computer onto paper. You don't need a printer to use your
computer, but having one allows you to print e-mail, cards, invitations, announcements, and
other materials. Many people also like being able to print their own photos at home.
The two main types of printers are inkjet printers and laser printers. Inkjet printers are the
most popular printers for the home. They can print in black and white or in full color and can
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produce high-quality photographs when used with special paper. Laser printers are faster and
generally better able to handle heavy use.
Inkjet printer (left); laser printer (right)
2.7. Speakers
Speakers are used to play sound. They may be built into the system unit or connected with
cables. Speakers allow you to listen to music and hear sound effects from your computer.
2.8. Modem
To connect your computer to the Internet, you need a modem. A modem is a device that
sends and receives computer information over a telephone line or high-speed cable. Modems
are sometimes built into the system unit, but higher-speed modems are usually separate
components.
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CHAPTER III: USING YOUR MOUSE
Just as you would use your hands to interact with objects in the physical world, you can use
your mouse to interact with items on your computer screen. You can move objects, open
them, change them, throw them away, and perform other actions, all by pointing and clicking
with your mouse.
3.1. Basic parts
A mouse typically has two buttons: a primary button (usually the left button) and a secondary
button (usually the right button). The primary button is the one you will use most often. Most
mice also include a scroll wheel between the buttons to help you scroll through documents
and webpages more easily. On some mice, the scroll wheel can be pressed to act as a third
button. Advanced mice might have additional buttons that can perform other functions.
3.2. Holding and moving the mouse
Place your mouse beside your keyboard on a clean, smooth surface, such as a mouse pad.
Hold the mouse gently with your index finger resting on the primary button and your thumb
resting on the side. To move the mouse, slide it slowly in any direction. Don't twist it—keep
the front of the mouse aimed away from you. As you move the mouse, a pointer (see picture)
on your screen moves in the same direction. If you run out of room to move your mouse on
your desk or mouse pad, just pick up the mouse and bring it back closer to you.
Hold the mouse lightly, keeping your wrist straight
3.3. Pointing, clicking, and dragging
Pointing to an item on the screen means moving your mouse so the pointer appears to be
touching the item. When you point to something, a small box often appears that describes the
item. For example, when you point to the Recycle Bin on the desktop, a box appears with this
information: "Contains the files and folders that you have deleted."
Pointing to an object often reveals a descriptive message about it
The pointer can change depending on what you're pointing to. For example, when you point
to a link in your web browser, the pointer changes from an arrow to a hand with a pointing
finger.
Most mouse actions combine pointing with pressing one of the mouse buttons. There are four
basic ways to use your mouse buttons: clicking, double-clicking, right-clicking, and dragging.
Clicking (single-clicking)
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To click an item, point to the item on the screen, and then press and release the primary
button (usually the left button).
Clicking is most often used to select (mark) an item or open a menu. This is sometimes called
single-clicking or left-clicking.
Double-clicking
To double-click an item, point to the item on the screen, and then click twice quickly. If the
two clicks are spaced too far apart, they might be interpreted as two individual clicks rather
than as one double-click.
Double-clicking is most often used to open items on your desktop. For example, you can start
a program or open a folder by double-clicking its icon on the desktop.
Tip
• If you have trouble double-clicking, you can adjust the double-click speed (the
amount of time acceptable between clicks). Follow these steps:
1. Click to open Mouse Properties.

2. Click the Buttons tab, and then, under Double-click speed, move the slider to
increase or decrease the speed.
Right-clicking
To right-click an item, point to the item on the screen, and then press and release the
secondary button (usually the right button).
Right-clicking an item usually displays a list of things you can do with the item. For example,
when you right-click the Recycle Bin on your desktop, Windows displays a menu allowing
you to open it, empty it, delete it, or see its properties. If you're ever unsure of what to do
with something, right-click it.
Right-clicking the Recycle Bin opens a menu of related commands
Dragging
You can move items around your screen by dragging them. To drag an object, point to the
object on the screen, press and hold the primary button, move the object to a new location,
and then release the primary button.
Dragging (sometimes called dragging and dropping) is most often used to move files and
folders to a different location and to move windows and icons around on your screen.
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3.4. Using the scroll wheel
If your mouse has a scroll wheel, you can use it to scroll through documents and webpages.
To scroll down, roll the wheel backward (toward you). To scroll up, roll the wheel forward
(away from you).
3.5. Customizing your mouse
You can change your mouse settings to suit your personal preferences. For example, you can
change how fast your mouse pointer moves around the screen, or change the pointer's
appearance. If you're left-handed, you can switch the primary button to be the right button.
For more information, see Change mouse settings.
3.6. Tips for using your mouse safely
Holding and moving your mouse properly can help you avoid soreness or injury to your
wrists, hands, and arms, particularly if you use your computer for long periods of time. Here
are some tips to help you avoid problems:
• Place your mouse at elbow level. Your upper arms should fall relaxed at your sides.
• Don't squeeze or grip your mouse tightly. Hold it lightly.
• Move the mouse by pivoting your arm at your elbow. Avoid bending your wrist up,
down, or to the sides.
• Use a light touch when clicking a mouse button.
• Keep your fingers relaxed. Don't allow them to hover just above the buttons.
• When you don't need to use the mouse, don't hold it.
• Take short breaks from computer use every 15 to 20 minutes.
Change mouse settings
You can customize your mouse in a variety of ways, such as swapping the functions of your
mouse buttons, making the mouse pointer more visible, and altering the scroll wheel speed.
To change how the mouse buttons work

2. Click the Buttons tab, and then do any of the following:
o To swap the functions of the right and left mouse buttons, select the Switch
primary and secondary buttons check box.
o To change how quickly you must click the buttons to perform a double-click,
move the Double-click speed slider towards Slow or Fast.
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o To turn on Click Lock, which enables you to highlight or drag without holding
down the mouse button, select the Turn on Click Lock check box.
To change how the mouse pointer looks

2. Click the Pointers tab, and then do one of the following:
o To give all of your pointers a new look, click the Scheme list, and then click a
new mouse pointer scheme.
o To change an individual pointer, click the pointer you want to change in the
Customize list, click Browse, click the pointer you want to use, and then click
Open.
To change how the mouse pointer works

2. Click the Pointer Options tab, and then do any of the following:
o To change the speed at which the mouse pointer moves, move the Select a
pointer speed slider towards Slow or Fast.
o To make the pointer work more accurately when you're moving the mouse
slowly, select the Enhance pointer precision check box.
o To speed the process of selecting a choice when a dialog box appears, select
the Automatically move pointer to the default button in a dialog box check
box .
o To make the pointer easier to find when you move it, select the Display
pointer trails check box, and then move the slider towards Short or Long to
decrease or increase the length of the pointer trail.
o To ensure that the pointer doesn't block your view of the text you're typing,
select the Hide pointer while typing check box.
o To find a misplaced pointer by pressing the CTRL key, select the Show
location of pointer when I press the CTRL key check box.
To change how the mouse wheel works

2. Click the Wheel tab, and then do one of the following:
o To set the number of lines the screen will scroll for each notch of mouse wheel
movement, click the following number of lines at a time, and then enter the
number of lines you want to scroll in the box.
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o To scroll an entire screen of text for each click of the mouse wheel, click One
screen at a time.
o If your mouse has a wheel that supports horizontal scrolling, in the Tilt the
wheel to scroll the following number of characters at a time box, enter the
number of characters you want to scroll horizontally when you tilt the wheel
to the left or right.
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CHAPTER IV: USING YOUR KEYBOARD
Whether you're writing a letter or entering numerical data, your keyboard is the main way to
enter information into your computer. But did you know you can also use your keyboard to
control your computer? Learning just a few simple keyboard commands (instructions to your
computer) can help you work more efficiently. This article covers the basics of keyboard
operation and gets you started with keyboard commands.
4.1. How the keys are organized
The keys on your keyboard can be divided into several groups based on function:
• Typing (alphanumeric) keys. These keys include the same letter, number, punctuation,
and symbol keys found on a traditional typewriter.
• Control keys. These keys are used alone or in combination with other keys to perform
certain actions. The most frequently used control keys are CTRL, ALT, the Windows
logo key, and ESC.
• Function keys. The function keys are used to perform specific tasks. They are labeled
as F1, F2, F3, and so on, up to F12. The functionality of these keys differs from
program to program.
• Navigation keys. These keys are used for moving around in documents or webpages
and editing text. They include the arrow keys, HOME, END, PAGE UP, PAGE
DOWN, DELETE, and INSERT.
• Numeric keypad. The numeric keypad is handy for entering numbers quickly. The
keys are grouped together in a block like a conventional calculator or adding machine.
The following illustration shows how these keys are arranged on a typical keyboard. Your
keyboard layout may differ.
How the keys are arranged on a keyboard
4.2. Typing text
Whenever you need to type something in a program, e-mail message, or text box, you'll see a
blinking vertical line ( ). That's the cursor, also called the insertion point. It shows where
the text that you type will begin. You can move the cursor by clicking in the desired location
with the mouse, or by using the navigation keys (see the "Using navigation keys" section of
this article).
In addition to letters, numerals, punctuation marks, and symbols, the typing keys also include
SHIFT, CAPS LOCK, the TAB key, ENTER, the SPACEBAR, and BACKSPACE.
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Key name How to use it

Press SHIFT in combination with a letter to type an uppercase letter. Press
SHIFT SHIFT in combination with another key to type the symbol shown on the
upper part of that key.
Press CAPS LOCK once to type all letters as uppercase. Press CAPS LOCK
CAPS LOCK again to turn this function off. Your keyboard may have a light indicating
whether CAPS LOCK is on.
Press the TAB key to move the cursor several spaces forward. You can also
TAB
press the TAB key to move to the next text box on a form.
Press ENTER to move the cursor to the beginning of the next line. In a dialog
ENTER
box, press ENTER to select the highlighted button.
SPACEBAR Press the SPACEBAR to move the cursor one space forward.
Press BACKSPACE to delete the character before the cursor, or the selected
BACKSPACE
text.
4.3. Using keyboard shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are ways to perform actions by using your keyboard. They're called
shortcuts because they help you work faster. In fact, almost any action or command you can
perform with a mouse can be performed faster using one or more keys on your keyboard.
In Help topics, a plus sign (+) between two or more keys indicates that those keys should be
pressed in combination. For example, CTRL+A means to press and hold CTRL and then
press A. CTRL+SHIFT+A means to press and hold CTRL and SHIFT and then press A.
Find program shortcuts
You can do things in most programs by using the keyboard. To see which commands have
keyboard shortcuts, open a menu. The shortcuts (if available) are shown next to the menu
items.
Keyboard shortcuts appear next to menu items
Choose menus, commands, and options
You can open menus and choose commands and other options using your keyboard. When
you press ALT in a program with menus, one letter in each of the menu names becomes
underlined. Press an underlined letter to open the corresponding menu. Press the underlined
letter in a menu item to choose that command.
Press ALT+F to open the File menu, then press P to choose the Print command
This trick works in dialog boxes too. Whenever you see an underlined letter attached to an
option in a dialog box, it means you can press ALT plus that letter to choose that option.
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Useful shortcuts
The following table lists some of the most useful keyboard shortcuts. For a more detailed list,
see Keyboard shortcuts.
Press this To do this

Windows logo key
Open the Start menu
ALT+TAB Switch between open programs or windows

ALT+F4 Close the active item, or exit the active program
CTRL+S Save the current file or document (works in most programs)
CTRL+C Copy the selected item
CTRL+X Cut the selected item
CTRL+V Paste the selected item
CTRL+Z Undo an action
CTRL+A Select all items in a document or window
F1 Display Help for a program or Windows
Windows logo key
Display Windows Help and Support
+F1
ESC Cancel the current task
Open a menu of commands related to a selection in a program.
Application key Equivalent to right-clicking the selection.
4.4. Using navigation keys
The navigation keys allow you to move the cursor, move around in documents and webpages,
and edit text. The following table lists some common functions of these keys.
Press this To do this

LEFT ARROW, RIGHT Move the cursor or selection one space or line in the
ARROW, UP ARROW, or direction of the arrow, or scroll a webpage in the direction
DOWN ARROW of the arrow
Move the cursor to the beginning of a line or move to the
HOME
top of a webpage
Move the cursor to the end of a line or move to the bottom
END
of a webpage
CTRL+HOME Move to the top of a document
CTRL+END Move to the bottom of a document
PAGE UP Move the cursor or page up one screen
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PAGE DOWN Move the cursor or page down one screen

Delete the character after the cursor, or the selected text; in
DELETE Windows, delete the selected item and move it to the
Recycle Bin
Turn Insert mode off or on. When Insert mode is on, text
INSERT that you type is inserted at the cursor. When Insert mode is
off, text that you type replaces existing characters.
4.5. Using the numeric keypad
The numeric keypad arranges the numerals 0 though 9, the arithmetic operators + (addition), -
(subtraction), * (multiplication), and / (division), and the decimal point as they would appear
on a calculator or adding machine. These characters are duplicated elsewhere on the
keyboard, of course, but the keypad arrangement allows you to rapidly enter numerical data
or mathematical operations with one hand.
Numeric keypad
To use the numeric keypad to enter numbers, press NUM LOCK. Most keyboards have a
light that indicates whether NUM LOCK is on or off. When NUM LOCK is off, the numeric
keypad functions as a second set of navigation keys (these functions are printed on the keys
next to the numerals or symbols).
You can use your numeric keypad to perform simple calculations with Calculator.
Operate Calculator with the numeric keypad
4.6. Three odd keys

So far, we've discussed almost every key you're likely to use. But for the truly inquisitive,
let's explore the three most mysterious keys on the keyboard: PRINT SCREEN, SCROLL
LOCK, and PAUSE/BREAK.
PRINT SCREEN (or PRT SCN)
A long time ago, this key actually did what it says—it sent the current screen of text to your
printer. Nowadays, pressing PRINT SCREEN captures an image of your entire screen (a
"screen shot") and copies it to the Clipboard in your computer's memory. From there you can
paste it (CTRL+V) into Microsoft Paint or another program and, if you want, print it from
that program.
More obscure is SYS RQ, which shares the key with PRINT SCREEN on some keyboards.
Historically, SYS RQ was designed to be a "system request," but this command is not
enabled in Windows.
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Tip
• Press ALT+PRINT SCREEN to capture an image of just the active window, instead
of the entire screen.
SCROLL LOCK (or SCR LK)
In most programs, pressing SCROLL LOCK has no effect. In a few programs, pressing
SCROLL LOCK changes the behavior of the arrow keys and the PAGE UP and PAGE
DOWN keys; pressing these keys causes the document to scroll without changing the
position of the cursor or selection. Your keyboard might have a light indicating whether
SCROLL LOCK is on.
PAUSE/BREAK
This key is rarely used. In some older programs, pressing this key pauses the program or, in
combination with CTRL, stops it from running.
4.7. Other keys
Some modern keyboards come with "hot keys" or buttons that give you quick, one-press
access to programs, files, or commands. Other models have volume controls, scroll wheels,
zoom wheels, and other gadgets. For details about these features, check the information that
came with your keyboard or computer, or go to the manufacturer's website.
4.8. Tips for using your keyboard safely
Using your keyboard properly can help avoid soreness or injury to your wrists, hands, and
arms, particularly if you use your computer for long periods of time. Here are some tips to
help you avoid problems:
• Place your keyboard at elbow level. Your upper arms should be relaxed at your sides.
• Center your keyboard in front of you. If your keyboard has a numeric keypad, you can
use the spacebar as the centering point.
• Type with your hands and wrists floating above the keyboard, so that you can use
your whole arm to reach for distant keys instead of stretching your fingers.
• Avoid resting your palms or wrists on any type of surface while typing. If your
keyboard has a palm rest, use it only during breaks from typing.
• While typing, use a light touch and keep your wrists straight.
• When you're not typing, relax your arms and hands.
• Take short breaks from computer use every 15 to 20 minutes.
Using keyboard shortcuts

20
Keyboard shortcuts are combinations of two or more keys that, when pressed, can be used to
perform a task that would typically require a mouse or other pointing device. Keyboard
shortcuts can make it easier to interact with your computer, saving you time and effort as you
work with Windows and the Internet. Check the menus of programs for shortcuts. If a letter is
underlined in a menu, it usually means that pressing the ALT key in combination with the
underlined key will have the same effect as clicking that menu item.
Keyboard shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can make it easier to interact with your computer because you don't need
to use the mouse as often.
Ease of Access keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts that can help make your computer easier to
use.
Press this key To do this

Right SHIFT for eight seconds Turn Filter Keys on and off
Left ALT+left SHIFT+PRINT SCREEN (or PRTSCRN) Turn High Contrast on or off
Left ALT+left SHIFT+NUM LOCK Turn Mouse Keys on or off
SHIFT five times Turn Sticky Keys on or off
NUM LOCK for five seconds Turn Toggle Keys on or off
Open the Ease of Access Center

Windows logo key +U
General keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains general keyboard shortcuts.

CTRL+C Copy the selected item
CTRL+X Cut the selected item
CTRL+V Paste the selected item
CTRL+Z Undo an action
DELETE Delete the selected item and move it to the Recycle Bin
Delete the selected item without moving it to the Recycle Bin
SHIFT+DELETE
first
F2 Rename the selected item
CTRL+RIGHT ARROW Move the cursor to the beginning of the next word
21

CTRL+LEFT ARROW Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous word
CTRL+DOWN ARROW Move the cursor to the beginning of the next paragraph
CTRL+UP ARROW Move the cursor to the beginning of the previous paragraph
CTRL+SHIFT with an arrow
Select a block of text
key
Select more than one item in a window or on the desktop, or
SHIFT with any arrow key
select text within a document
CTRL+A Select all items in a document or window
F3 Search for a file or folder
ALT+ENTER Display properties for the selected item
ALT+F4 Close the active item, or exit the active program
ALT+SPACEBAR Open the shortcut menu for the active window
Close the active document (in programs that allow you to have
CTRL+F4
multiple documents open simultaneously)
ALT+TAB Switch between open items
CTRL+ALT+TAB Use the arrow keys to switch between open items
Cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Windows Flip

Windows logo key
3-D
+TAB
CTRL+Windows logo key
Use the arrow keys to cycle through programs on the taskbar
by using Windows Flip 3-D
+TAB
ALT+ESC Cycle through items in the order in which they were opened
F6 Cycle through screen elements in a window or on the desktop
F4 Display the Address bar list in Windows Explorer
SHIFT+F10 Display the shortcut menu for the selected item
CTRL+ESC Open the Start menu
ALT+underlined letter Display the corresponding menu
ALT+underlined letter Perform the menu command (or other underlined command)
F10 Activate the menu bar in the active program
RIGHT ARROW Open the next menu to the right, or open a submenu
LEFT ARROW Open the next menu to the left, or close a submenu
F5 Refresh the active window
ALT+UP ARROW View the folder one level up in Windows Explorer
ESC Cancel the current task
CTRL+SHIFT+ESC Open Task Manager
SHIFT when you insert a CD Prevent the CD from automatically playing
22
Dialog box keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for use in dialog boxes.

CTRL+TAB Move forward through tabs
CTRL+SHIFT+TAB Move back through tabs
TAB Move forward through options
SHIFT+TAB Move back through options
ALT+underlined
Perform the command (or select the option) that goes with that letter
letter
ENTER Replaces clicking the mouse for many selected commands
SPACEBAR Select or clear the check box if the active option is a check box
Arrow keys Select a button if the active option is a group of option buttons
F1 Display Help
F4 Display the items in the active list
Open a folder one level up if a folder is selected in the Save As or
BACKSPACE
Open dialog box
Microsoft keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for use with Microsoft keyboards.
Open or close the Start menu

Windows logo key
Windows logo key Display the System Properties dialog box

+PAUSE
Display the desktop

Windows logo key +D
Minimize all windows

Windows logo key +M
Windows logo key Restore minimized windows to the desktop

+SHIFT+M
Open Computer
Windows logo key +E
Search for a file or folder

Windows logo key +F
23

Search for computers (if you are on a network)
+F
Lock your computer or switch users

Windows logo key +L
Open the Run dialog box

Windows logo key +R
Cycle through programs on the taskbar

Windows logo key +T
Cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Windows
Windows logo key +TAB Flip 3-D
Use the arrow keys to cycle through programs on the taskbar
by using Windows Flip 3-D
+TAB
Windows logo key Bring all gadgets to the front and select Windows Sidebar
+SPACEBAR
Cycle through Sidebar gadgets

Windows logo key +G
Open Ease of Access Center

Windows logo key +U
Open Windows Mobility Center

Windows logo key +X
Windows Explorer keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with Windows Explorer
windows or folders.

END Display the bottom of the active window
HOME Display the top of the active window
NUM LOCK+ASTERISK (*) on
Display all subfolders under the selected folder
numeric keypad
NUM LOCK+PLUS SIGN (+) on
Display the contents of the selected folder
numeric keypad
NUM LOCK+MINUS SIGN (-) on
Collapse the selected folder
numeric keypad
Collapse the current selection (if it is expanded), or
LEFT ARROW
select the parent folder
24

ALT+LEFT ARROW View the previous folder
Display the current selection (if it is collapsed), or
RIGHT ARROW
select the first subfolder
ALT+RIGHT ARROW View the next folder
ALT+D Select the Address bar
Windows Sidebar keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with Windows Sidebar.
Bring all gadgets to the front and select Sidebar

Windows logo key +SPACEBAR
Cycle through Sidebar gadgets

Windows logo key +G
TAB Cycle through Sidebar controls
Windows Photo Gallery keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with Windows Photo Gallery.

CTRL+F Open the Fix pane
CTRL+P Print the selected picture
ENTER View the selected picture at a larger size
CTRL+I Open or close the Details pane
CTRL+PERIOD (.) Rotate the picture clockwise
CTRL+COMMA (,) Rotate the picture counter-clockwise
F2 Rename the selected item
CTRL+E Search for an item
ALT+LEFT ARROW Go back
ALT+RIGHT ARROW Go forward
PLUS SIGN (+) Zoom in or resize the picture thumbnail
MINUS SIGN (-) Zoom out or resize the picture thumbnail
CTRL+B Best fit
LEFT ARROW Select the previous item
DOWN ARROW Select the next item or row
25

Previous item (Easel) or previous row
UP ARROW
(Thumbnail)
PAGE UP Previous screen
PAGE DOWN Next screen
HOME Select the first item
END Select the last item
DELETE Move the selected item to the Recycle Bin
SHIFT+DELETE Permanently delete the selected item
LEFT ARROW Collapse node
RIGHT ARROW Expand node
Keyboard shortcuts for working with
videos
J Move back one frame
K Pause the playback
L Move forward one frame
I Set the start trim point
O Set the end trim point
M Split a clip
Stop and rewind all the way back to the start trim
HOME
point
ALT+RIGHT ARROW Advance to the next frame
ALT+LEFT ARROW Go back to the previous frame
CTRL+K Stop and rewind playback
CTRL+P Play from the current location
HOME Move the start trim point
END Move to the end trim point
Seek to nearest split point before the current
PAGE UP
location
Seek to nearest split point after the current
PAGE DOWN
location
Windows Help viewer keyboard shortcuts
The following table contains keyboard shortcuts for working with the Help viewer.

ALT+C Display the Table of Contents
26

ALT+N Display the Connection Settings menu
F10 Display the Options menu
ALT+LEFT ARROW Move back to the previously viewed topic
ALT+RIGHT ARROW Move forward to the next (previously viewed) topic
ALT+A Display the customer support page
ALT+HOME Display the Help and Support home page
HOME Move the to beginning of a topic
END Move to the end of a topic
CTRL+F Search the current topic
CTRL+P Print a topic
F3 Move to the Search box
Internet Explorer keyboard shortcuts
You can use Internet Explorer's shortcut keys to perform lots of different tasks quickly or to
work without a mouse.
Viewing and exploring webpages
To do this Press this

Display Help F1
Toggle between full-screen and regular views of the browser
F11
window
Move forward through the items on a webpage, the Address
TAB
bar, or the Links bar
Move back through the items on a webpage, the Address bar,
SHIFT+TAB
or the Links bar
Go to your home page ALT+HOME
Go to the next page ALT+RIGHT ARROW
ALT+LEFT ARROW or
Go to the previous page
BACKSPACE
Display a shortcut menu for a link SHIFT+F10
Move forward through frames and browser elements (only
CTRL+TAB or F6
works if tabbed browsing is disabled)
Move backward between frames (only works if tabbed
CTRL+SHIFT+TAB
browsing is disabled)
Scroll toward the beginning of a document UP ARROW
27
Scroll toward the end of a document DOWN ARROW

Scroll toward the beginning of a document in larger
PAGE UP
increments
Scroll toward the end of a document in larger increments PAGE DOWN
Move to the beginning of a document HOME
Move to the end of a document END
Find on this page CTRL+F
Refresh the current webpage F5
Refresh the current webpage, even if the time stamp for the
CTRL+F5
web version and your locally stored version are the same
Stop downloading a page ESC
Open a new website or page CTRL+O
Open a new window CTRL+N
Close the current window (if you only have one tab open) CTRL+W
Save the current page CTRL+S
Print the current page or active frame CTRL+P
Activate a selected link ENTER
Open Favourites CTRL+I
Open History CTRL+H
Open Feeds CTRL+J
Open the Page menu ALT+P
Open the Tools menu ALT+T
Open the Help menu ALT+H
Working with tabs

Open links in a new tab in the background CTRL+click
Open links in a new tab in the foreground CTRL+SHIFT+click
Open a new tab in the foreground CTRL+T
Switch between tabs CTRL+TAB or CTRL+SHIFT+TAB
Close current tab (or the current window if tabbed
CTRL+W
browsing is disabled)
Open a new tab in the foreground from the Address
ALT+ENTER
bar
CTRL+n (where n is a number between
Switch to a specific tab number
1 and 8)
28
Switch to the last tab CTRL+9

Close other tabs CTRL+ALT+F4
Toggle Quick Tabs (thumbnail view) on or off CTRL+Q
Using zoom

Increase zoom (+ 10%) CTRL+PLUS SIGN
Decrease zoom (- 10%) CTRL+MINUS SIGN
Zoom to 100% CTRL+0
Using search

Go to the search box CTRL+E
Open your search query in a new tab ALT+ENTER
Open the search provider menu CTRL+DOWN ARROW
Using Print Preview

Set printing options and print the page ALT+P
Change paper, headers and footers, orientation, and margins for this page ALT+U
Display the first page to be printed ALT+HOME
ALT+LEFT
Display the previous page to be printed
ARROW
Type the number of the page you want displayed ALT+A
ALT+RIGHT
Display the next page to be printed
ARROW
Display the last page to be printed ALT+END
Specify how you want frames to print (this option is available only if you
ALT+F
are printing a webpage that uses frames)
Close Print Preview ALT+C
Using the Address bar

29
Select the text in the Address bar ALT+D

Display a list of addresses you've typed F4
When in the Address bar, move the cursor left to the next logical break CTRL+LEFT
in the address (period or slash) ARROW
When in the Address bar, move the cursor right to the next logical CTRL+RIGHT
break in the address (period or slash) ARROW
Add "www." to the beginning and ".com" to the end of the text typed
CTRL+ENTER
in the Address bar
Move forward through the list of AutoComplete matches UP ARROW
Move back through the list of AutoComplete matches DOWN ARROW
Opening Internet Explorer toolbar menus

Open the Home menu ALT+M
Open the Print menu ALT+R
Open the RSS menu ALT+J
Open the Tools menu ALT+O
Open the Help menu ALT+L
Working with feeds, history, and favorites

Add the current page to your favourites (or subscribe to the feed when
CTRL+D
in feed preview)
Open the Organize Favourites dialog box CTRL+B
Move selected item up in the Favourites list in the Organize
ALT+UP ARROW
Favourites dialog box
Move selected item down in the Favourites list in the Organize ALT+DOWN
Favourites dialog box ARROW
Open Favourites Centre and display your favourites ALT+C
Open Favourites Centre and display your history CTRL+H
Open Favourites Centre and display your feeds CTRL+J
Open and dock the Favourites Centre and display your feeds CTRL+SHIFT+J
Open Add to Favourites menu (or open Subscribe to feed when in feed
ALT+Z
preview)
Open the Favourites menu from the menu bar
30
ALT+A
Display all feeds (when in feed view) ALT+I
Mark a feed as read (when in feed view) ALT+M
Put cursor in Search box in feed view ALT+S
Editing

Remove the selected items and copy them to the Clipboard CTRL+X
Copy the selected items to the Clipboard CTRL+C
Insert the contents of the Clipboard at the selected location CTRL+V
Select all items on the current webpage CTRL+A
Using the Information bar

Move focus to the Information bar ALT+N
Click the Information bar SPACEBAR
Note
• To find a compact, printable version of the most popular Internet Explorer shortcuts,
see the Internet Explorer Quick Reference Sheet.
Internet Explorer keyboard shortcuts
You can use Internet Explorer's shortcut keys to perform lots of different tasks quickly or to
work without a mouse.

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1

INTRODUCTION: Aims of the course

CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

CHAPTER II: PARTS OF A COMPUTER

CHAPTER III: USING YOUR MOUSE

CHAPTER IV: USING YOUR KEYBOARD

INTRODUCTION: Aims of the course

At the end of this course, a successful student is expected to

(1) discuss the history of computing and various types of computers;

CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

1.1. What are computers?

1.2. Types of computers

1.3. What can you do with computers?

Here are some of the most popular things to do with computers:

4. Pictures, music, and movies

CHAPTER II: PARTS OF A COMPUTER

Let's take a look at each of these parts.

2.1. System unit

1. Hard disk drive

2. CD and DVD drives

• If you have a recordable CD or DVD drive, periodically back up (copy) your

3. Floppy disk drive

LCD monitor (left); CRT monitor (right)

Inkjet printer (left); laser printer (right)

CHAPTER III: USING YOUR MOUSE

3.1. Basic parts

3.2. Holding and moving the mouse

Hold the mouse lightly, keeping your wrist straight

3.3. Pointing, clicking, and dragging

Pointing to an object often reveals a descriptive message about it

1. Click to open Mouse Properties.

Right-clicking the Recycle Bin opens a menu of related commands

3.4. Using the scroll wheel

3.5. Customizing your mouse

3.6. Tips for using your mouse safely

• Take short breaks from computer use every 15 to 20 minutes.

Change mouse settings

To change how the mouse buttons work

1. Click to open Mouse Properties.

To change how the mouse pointer looks

1. Click to open Mouse Properties.

To change how the mouse pointer works

1. Click to open Mouse Properties.

To change how the mouse wheel works

1. Click to open Mouse Properties.

CHAPTER IV: USING YOUR KEYBOARD

4.1. How the keys are organized

How the keys are arranged on a keyboard

4.2. Typing text

Key name How to use it

4.3. Using keyboard shortcuts

Find program shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts appear next to menu items

Choose menus, commands, and options

Press this To do this

ALT+TAB Switch between open programs or windows

4.4. Using navigation keys

Press this To do this

PAGE DOWN Move the cursor or page down one screen

4.5. Using the numeric keypad

Operate Calculator with the numeric keypad

4.6. Three odd keys

PRINT SCREEN (or PRT SCN)