Application Software

Application Software


John Hassler

Professor C. Mason

Computer Information systems 204

September 13, 1996


     Computer systems contain both hard and software.  Hardware is any

tangible item in a computer system, like the system unit, keyboard, or printer.

Software, or a computer program, is the set of instruction that direct the

computer to perform a task.  Software falls into one of two categories: system

software and application software.  System software controls the operation of

the computer hardware; whereas, application software enables a user to perform

tasks.  Three major types of application software on the market today for

personal computers are word processors, electronic spreadsheets, and database

management systems (Little and Benson 10-42).

     A word processing program allows a user to efficiently and economically

create professional looking documents such as memoranda, letters, reports, and

resumes.  With a word processor, one can easily revise a document.  To improve

the accuracy of one's writing, word processors can check the spelling and the

grammar in a document.  They also provide a thesaurus to enable a user to add

variety and precision to his or her writing.  Many word processing programs also

provide desktop publishing features to create brochures, advertisements, and

newsletters.

     An electronic spreadsheet enables a user to organize data in a fashion

similar to a paper spreadsheet.  The difference is the user does not haveThis is ONLY a preview of the article. If you would like to view the entire document, you must subscribe to Electronic References. Please register below now!


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