Many people have computers and were using Microsoft Works or WordPerfect until Microsoft came out with an even better program for business and personal needs.  You will find that Microsoft Office computer software is generated more towards business or classroom needs than for your personal needs depending on what you are going to use the program for.  Microsoft Office computer software is comprised of four elements: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

The Word portion of the computer software is the easiest for individuals to learn.  It is just a blank document that will help you type up business letters, school papers, newsletters, and any manner of items you may need to have typed rather than hand written.  Word offers you options for changing the font, the background color, creating web pages, creating charts in the actual document, clip art to make signs or banners with, and many other tools.  You are able to import information from the web into a document or even from an Excel spreadsheet.

Excel is a basic spreadsheet that will allow you to create charts, reports, tables, and any other information you may need for a class or business.  Excel as a portion of the computer software can link to Word and import or send information to the other part of the program.  You will find that for accounting, businesses, and the science industry Excel is one of the most beneficial programs you can have.

The different charts include pie charts, vertical, horizontal, and even color-coded charts.  The best part about Excel is once you have a formula you will be able to continue using it.  You will also find that there are several different methods to create information on the chart.  You may have to take an online computer software course or purchase a textbook to learn all the secrets of the Excel portion of the Microsoft Office computer software, but you will find the information more than invaluable.

Next, you have the PowerPoint portion of the computer software.  PowerPoint is designed to help you create a report with charts, information, bulletins, and a slide show to make the presentations you have to do for work, seminars, classes, or personal entertainment easy for you.  PowerPoint is very easy to use with the step-by-step process of creating a slide show.  You will be able to import data from other programs and online sources to create the presentation.  It can be sent through email or used in telecommunication so that everyone is able to see what you are talking about without being in the room with you.  PowerPoint presentations are also used when teaching online courses where the host has control of the screen to work you through tutorials.

Outlook is used by many businesses as their main source of email and communication.  Outlook is like any other email program out there, except that the program is on your computer and you need to find a server that will allow you to email and receive messages.  It will also give you calendars, notes, and be a basic day planner for you to use.  You will be able to set up alerts for meetings, reminders for telephone calls, or activities you will need to do that day.  Outlook computer software allows you to carry the information you need with you without the actual book to carry.

Microsoft Office computer software continues to have updates every few years.  You will find that there is a new program called Microsoft Office 2007 available to work with the Windows Vista program.  It is important that you keep your software up to date when you purchase a new computer or download new programs to ensure that you have the latest in technology to make your work easier and more efficient.  This computer software is easy to download and requires a CD.  You will want to avoid online places that offer to sell you the program online without the CD because you will need the information on the CD to get the special items the computer software has.