Application software is the software you choose for the work you want your computer to do. Application software falls into the following categories:

• Productivity Software includes word-processing programs -- such as Word and Work Perfect -- that allow users to type letters, resumes, reports, and more; spreadsheet programs -- such as Lotus and Excel -- that manipulate numbers and other data; database programs -- such as Access and FileMaker Pro -- that organize information, including addresses, student demographic data, and so on; and presentation programs -- such as HyperStudio and PowerPoint -- that allow users to make slide shows or other video displays.

  Note: A group of several productivity programs packaged and sold together -- such as Microsoft Office or Apple Works -- is called integrated software, or a software suite.

• Multimedia Software allows users to create and manipulate media files. Multimedia software includes graphics programs -- such as Photoshop and Corel -- that enable users to input, manipulate, use, and output photos and drawings; publishing programs -- such as PageMaker and Microsoft Publisher -- that are used to create brochures, newsletters, and other "desktop publishing" materials; and Web design programs -- such as Flash, FrontPage, and Dream Weaver -- that are used to create Web pages.
  
  
• Personal Preference Software includes communication software -- such as Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, AOL, and Outlook Express -- that provide the connections necessary for e-mail and Internet access; educational and reference software -- such as Reader Rabbit, Encyclopedia Britannica, and many, many more -- that provide information and teach and test skills; and entertainment software -- too numerous to mention -- that are simply fun to use.

Next: What application software do you need?