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What is word processing? In 1968, IBM first used the
term word processing. The term described machines that could be
used to type a document, remember the typist's keystrokes, and produce more
than one copy. With this new tool, workers saved time. That was
just the beginning. Today's word-processing programs do much more.
Suppose you were writing something by hand and made a mistake or changed
your mind about what you wanted to say. If you were using a pen, you
would probably cross out the words you wanted to change or brush on
correction fluid. doing that leaves the page messy, though. With
word-processing software, you can change the text and still create neat
pages. you can even save what you typed and use it again a day, a
week, or even a year later.
Functions of Word Processing Programs
Word-processing programs are used for creating and printing text
document. These programs have four functions:
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writing-entering text and symbols into a document
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editing-revising or reorganizing the text
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formatting- changing how the text looks on the page
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printing-producing a printed copy
These tasks do not need to be done all at once or even in
the order shown here. Whatever the order, these four functions are at
the heart of word processing.
Uses of Word-Processing
Word-processing programs can be used to create almost any kind of
printed document, such as letters, reports, and brochures. they can
also be used to create calendars, return address labels, and labels for
homemade CDs. It is no surprise that word-processing software is the
application that people use more than any other application.
Working With a Word-Processing Document
When you open a word-processing program, a new, blank document is
created. It looks like a blank piece of paper on the screen. The
program is ready for you to start writing. You can create another new
document any time by clicking New on the Standard toolbar.
Every time you create a new document you need to save it.
Click Save on the Standard toolbar or select the File menu and click Save.
When the Save As dialog box opens, name your document.
Insertion Point- The insertion point shows where the text
you type will appear. It moves as you type.
Scrolling- As you write, you might want to reread or
change something you wrote earlier. That is made easy by scrolling-
using the mouse or keyboard to move through the document. You can
scroll up or down by suing the mouse to click the scroll bar or drag the
scroll box at the right of the document window. Some new mouse devices
have scrolling wheels. You can also use the Up and Down arrow keys or
the Page Up, Page Down, Home, and End keys to move around in the document.
Basic Features
Most word-processing programs have four basic features. They help
you write, edit, and save your work.
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With word wrap, the program automatically starts a new
line, or "wraps" the text, when the current line is full. If you
wish, you can force text onto a new line by pressing Enter.
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When a page is full, the pagination feature
automatically starts a new page. You can also force a new page by
inserting a special character, called a page break.
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The AutoCorrect feature fixes common spelling mistakes
as they are typed. You can turn off this feature or modify it to
accept unusual words that you often use.
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The autosave feature protects you from losing work.
It does so by automatically saving a document as often as you want.
If the computer shuts down accidentally, you can retrieve the most
recently saved version.
Standards fro Word-Processing Documents
As you write, keep in mind three standards of style to make your work
look professional.
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