If you are new to computers and recently started using Windows 7, I suggest one of the first points of instruction to look at is under “Help and Support” section; titled “Learn About Windows Basic”.
You can get to this section by clicking on the “Start Menu”, then on “Help and Support”, then “Learn About Windows Basics”. I have found that the vast majority of people who buy a computer are lost within a short matter of time due to their unfamiliarity with the basic parts of the computer, the navigation of the computer, and the terminology that is associated with the computer. This is one of the first places I send people to learn about their PC and to familiarize them with Help & Support.
It is very important to learn more about the computer other than turning it on/off and getting on the internet. Learning the basics will make you more knowledgeable and will make your computer experience a comfortable and safe experience. I run into people on a daily basis, who have been using a computer for years and one of my first tests of their knowledge is to ask them something simple such as “How many icons do you see on the taskbar?”. Nearly every time, the response is “Where’s that? or “What is the taskbar?”. The “Learn About Windows Basics” help section in Windows 7 does a great job (in short time) by explaining the basics of the computer and the Windows operating system.
Windows Basics topics are designed to introduce you to personal computing and the Windows operating system. Whether you’re a beginning computer user or someone with experience using a previous version of Windows, these topics will help you understand the tasks and tools you need to use your computer successfully.
Microsoft has done a great job in covering these basics with topics such as:
- Introduction to computers
- Parts of a computer
- Using your mouse
- Using your keyboard
- Turning off your computer properly
Desktop fundamentals
- The desktop (overview)
- The Start menu (overview)
- The taskbar (overview)
- Desktop gadgets (overview)
- Working with windows
- Using menus, buttons, bars, and boxes
Programs, files, and folders
- Using programs
- Working with files and folders
- Getting started with printing
- Getting started with Paint
Internet, e‑mail, and networking
- Getting started with e‑mail
- Understanding security and safe computing
- Setting up a wireless network
Pictures and games
- Working with digital pictures
- Learn about Windows games
Help and support
- Getting help
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Rick,
You can lead a horse to water………..
“What is the taskbar?” – kind of like driving a car without knowing what the instrumentation panel is all about.
Bill
Bill,
Blows my mind (on a daily basis); especially in the business environment, just how computer illiterate we can be. What I found, especially in that environment, is no one will take the time to teach the very basics. Most people are using powerful computers as internet machines. Really makes no sense whatsoever?
Rick
Nice article.
It really is surprising that many users know so little about their computers and it takes time to teach them. Even simple tasks such as copy and paste are beyond many and the ‘Help and Support’ section on Windows 7 is a great bonus for those users who should take time to learn rather than just ‘power on and go’ as they do!
Colin,
It is funny that you mention the “copy and paste” routine… It is the most “underutilized” function by the everyday computer user, that I have found. Thanks for adding your input on this.
Rick