Windows Basics Computers 1
What is Windows? An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer's memory and processes, as well as all of its software and hardware. It also allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer's language. Without an operating system, a computer is useless. Video
Windows Desktop What is the desktop? The main screen area that you see after you turn on your computer and log on to Windows. On-screen work area on which windows, icons, menus, and dialog boxes appear
Parts of the Desktop Icons Individual images on the desktop that represent certain programs, files, or folders. Taskbar Entire bar at the bottom of the desktop; includes other parts of the desktop Start Button Allows access to all Windows functions and programs through a menu-based interface. Quick Launch Toolbar Allows you to access smaller icons that work as buttons to launch programs. System Tray Shows the status of certain devices, programs, and functions of the Windows operating system. Shortcuts Icons for programs; have an arrow symbol. Open Program Window Used to view a launched program. Open Program Buttons Used to access launched programs; contained on the taskbar.
Open Program Windows Icons Quick Launch Toolbar Open Program Buttons Start Button System Tray Taskbar
Program Windows Title Bar Tabs/Ribbons Control Buttons Status Bar Tells the name of the program and may show the name of the open file Tabs/Ribbons Provide access to commands and options Control Buttons Controls size and look of program window (Minimize, Maximize, Restore, and Close) Status Bar Provides helpful messages Quick Access Toolbar Provides quick access to commonly used commands Scroll Bars Allows you to move other parts of the file into the viewing area Working Area Allows you to enter or change data Resize Handle Allows you to change the window size Zoom Slider Allows you to zoom the working area in and out
Title Bar Control Buttons Quick Access Toolbar Tabs Ribbon Working Area Scroll Bars Status Bar Resize Handle Zoom Slider
Mouse Pointers Tells you where the mouse is located as you hover across the screen. Tells you when you’re hovering over a resizing handle or window border. Appears in areas where you can enter words or numbers. Appears where there is a link you can click. Tells you to wait as Windows catches up and finishes following your instructions. Used for handwriting recognition. When it appears, you can hand-type. Lets you know when you’re hovering over an object that can be moved.
Control Buttons Minimize Maximize Restore Close Moves program window off desktop to taskbar. Maximize Program window will be enlarged to occupy entire desktop Restore Returns a window to it’s previous size after being maximized Close Closes program window (exits program)
Control Buttons Restore Close Minimize Maximize