1.
Introduction to Computers
What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic machine that can store, process, and display information.
It follows instructions to perform tasks like typing documents, browsing the internet,
watching videos, calculating numbers, and more.
Types of computers
• Desktop Computer – Used in offices, fixed in one place.
• Laptop – Portable computer you can carry anywhere.
• Tablet – Touchscreen computer, easy to use for simple tasks.
• Smartphone – Small handheld computer.
• Server – A powerful computer used to store data and run systems for other
computers.
Hardware vs Software
• Hardware: The physical parts of a computer that you can touch
(keyboard, mouse, monitor, hard drive, RAM, CPU, etc.)
• Software: Programs or apps that run inside the computer
(Windows, MS Word, Chrome, games, etc.)
Input/Output Devices
• Input devices: Tools that send information into the computer
(keyboard, mouse, microphone, scanner)
• Output devices: Tools that show the result from the computer
(monitor, printer, speakers)
2. Operating System Essentials (Windows)
Turning on/off, restart
• Turn on: Press the power button on the CPU/laptop.
• Shutdown: Start Menu → Power → Shut down
• Restart: Start Menu → Power → Restart
Proper shutdown protects your files from getting damaged.
File & folder management
• Files = Documents, images, videos
• Folders = Boxes used to organize files
• You can open “File Explorer” to manage them.
Creating, copying, renaming files
• Create new folder: Right-click → New → Folder
• Copy: Right-click → Copy → Paste
• Rename: Right-click → Rename → Type new name
Using desktop, taskbar, settings
• Desktop: Where icons appear
• Taskbar: Bar at bottom with Start menu, open programs
• Settings: Change Wi-Fi, display, sound, users, updates
Install/uninstall applications
• Install: Download → Run installer → Follow steps
• Uninstall: Settings → Apps → Select app → Uninstall
3. Typing & Keyboard Skills
Basic typing practice
• Keep fingers on the “home row keys” (ASDF – JKL;)
• Use online tools like TypingClub or Keybr
• Start slow and increase speed over time
Shortcut keys
• Ctrl + C = Copy
• Ctrl + V = Paste
• Ctrl + X = Cut
• Ctrl + Z = Undo
• Alt + Tab = Switch windows
• Windows + E = Open File Explorer
Mouse skills & navigation
• Single-click = Select
• Double-click = Open
• Right-click = Options
• Scroll = Move up/down
• Drag & drop = Move files
4. Internet & Web Basics
What is internet?
A global network that connects millions of computers so people can communicate and
access information (websites, videos, email, etc.).
Using browsers
Browsers are apps used to open websites:
• Chrome
• Edge
• Firefox
Type a web address (URL) in the address bar to visit a site.
Download/upload basics
• Download: Get files from internet to computer
• Upload: Send files from computer to internet
Used in email, Google Drive, WhatsApp Web, etc.
Safe browsing practices
• Only visit trusted websites
• Avoid clicking unknown links
• Don’t share personal info on random websites
• Check for https:// (secure websites)
Creating and using email
• Use Gmail or Outlook
• Need name, phone number, password
• You can send text, images, documents
• Check inbox for new messages
• Use “Reply” for responses
5. Computer Security Basics
Passwords
• Use strong passwords
(mix letters, numbers, symbols)
• Never share with anyone
• Change immediately if leaked
Avoiding scams/phishing
• Do NOT click suspicious links
• Ignore emails asking for passwords
• Check sender details carefully
• Don’t download unknown attachments
Safe file handling
• Download files only from trusted sites
• Scan files using antivirus
• Don’t open unknown USB drives
Basic privacy rules
• Lock your computer when leaving
• Don’t share company files publicly
• Use company accounts responsibly