Basic Computer Skills Study Notes
1. The Desktop
Definition: The main workspace you see after logging into the computer. Think of it
like a physical desk where you place your work.
Key Components:
o Icons: Shortcuts to programs, files, or folders (e.g., Recycle Bin, Chrome).
o Taskbar (Windows) / Dock (Mac): The bar usually at the bottom showing
open apps, the Start menu, and the time/date.
o Background (Wallpaper): The image displayed behind your icons.
2. The Mouse
Left Click: The primary button. Used to select items, open links, or click buttons.
Double Click (Left): Used to open files, folders, or programs.
Right Click: Opens a Context Menu (a list of options). This menu changes depending
on what you click on (e.g., "Copy," "Paste," "Delete").
Scroll Wheel: Used to move up and down through a page or document.
Cursor/Pointer: The on-screen arrow that moves when you move the mouse.
3. PDFs (Portable Document Format)
What is it? A file format used to present documents specifically, so they look the
same on any device (phone, laptop, tablet).
Key Feature: They are usually "Read-Only," meaning they are not meant to be easily
edited like a Word document.
Viewing: You can open them in web browsers (Chrome, Edge) or dedicated apps like
Adobe Acrobat Reader.
4. Online Safety
Passwords:
o Use strong passwords (mix of letters, numbers, symbols).
o Never share your password with anyone.
Phishing/Scams:
o Be suspicious of emails asking for personal info or money.
o Do not click links in suspicious emails (e.g., "You won a prize!").
o Check the sender's email address to ensure it's legitimate.
Public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive bank accounts on free public Wi-Fi (like at a
coffee shop) unless you use a VPN.
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5. Multiple Windows
Multitasking: You can have more than one program open at a time.
Controls (Top Right Corner):
o Minimize (-): Hides the window to the taskbar (keeps it open but out of sight).
o Maximize (Square): Makes the window fill the entire screen.
o Close (X): Exits the program.
Snap/Split Screen: Drag a window to the far left or right edge of the screen to snap it
to half the screen, allowing you to see two windows side-by-side.
6. OneDrive (Cloud Storage)
What is it? Microsoft's online storage service. It saves your files to "The Cloud"
(internet servers) instead of just your physical computer hard drive.
Benefits:
o Access Anywhere: You can open your files from any computer or phone if you
log in.
o Backup: If your computer breaks, your files are safe in OneDrive.
o Auto-Save: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) can auto-save changes to
OneDrive as you work.
7. CamScanner
Purpose: A mobile app that uses your phone's camera to scan physical paper
documents.
Function: It converts photos of documents into clean, clear PDFs or image files.
Key Features:
o Auto-Crop: Finds the edges of the paper automatically.
o Enhance: Brightens the text and whitens the background for readability.
8. Sending Emails
To: The email address of the primary recipient.
Subject: A short summary of what the email is about (e.g., "Meeting Notes" or
"Question about Homework"). Always include a subject.
Body: The main message. Keep it professional and clear.
CC (Carbon Copy): Sends a copy to someone else for their information (everyone
can see who is CC'd).
BCC (Blind Carbon Copy): Sends a copy to someone secretly (no one else knows
this person received it).
Attachment (Paperclip Icon): Used to send files (photos, documents) along with the
email.
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9. Making Folders
Purpose: Essential for organizing files so your desktop or documents folder doesn't
become messy.
How to Create a New Folder (Standard Method):
1. Go to the location where you want the folder (e.g., Desktop or Documents).
2. Right-Click on an empty space.
3. Hover over New.
4. Click Folder.
5. Type a name for the folder immediately and press Enter.
Renaming: If you made a mistake, Right-Click the folder > Select Rename
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