📘 Computer Basics for Beginners

A Practical Guide to Notepad, WordPad, Paint, MS Word, MS Excel, and More

Chapter 1: Introduction to Computers

• Definition of Computer: An electronic device that processes data into information.
• Basic Components:
• Hardware: Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, CPU, Printer.
• Software: Programs like MS Word, Excel, Paint.
• Functions of Computer: Input → Process → Output → Storage.
• Types of Computers: Desktop, Laptop, Tablet, Smartphone.

Chapter 2: Operating System & Windows Basics

• What is an Operating System (OS)?
• Windows Interface: Desktop, Icons, Taskbar, Start Menu.
• File Management:
• Create, Rename, Delete files.
• Copy & Paste.
• Shortcut Keys (Ctrl + C, Ctrl + V, Ctrl + Z).
• Practical Exercise: Create a folder named “My Practice” and save files inside.

Chapter 3: Notepad

• Introduction: Simple text editor.
• Features:
• Write plain text.
• Save with .txt extension.
• Edit using Cut, Copy, Paste.
• Limitations: No formatting (bold, italic).
• Exercise: Write a short poem in Notepad and save it.

Chapter 4: WordPad

• Introduction: Advanced text editor compared to Notepad.
• Features:
• Formatting: Bold, Italic, Underline.
• Change Font & Size.
• Paragraph Alignment.
• Exercise: Write a letter to your friend using WordPad.

Chapter 5: Paint

• Introduction: Basic drawing program.
• Tools: Pencil, Brush, Shapes, Fill Color, Eraser.
• Practical Use: Create diagrams, simple art.
• Exercise: Draw a house with sun and tree.

Chapter 6: MS Word

• Introduction: Word processing software.
• Features:
• Create professional documents.
• Formatting: Headings, Paragraphs, Bullets.
• Insert: Table, Picture, Shapes.
• Page Setup & Printing.
• Practical Example: Create a Resume.
• Exercise: Write an essay “My Computer Learning Journey.”

Chapter 7: MS Excel

• Introduction: Spreadsheet software.
• Features:
• Workbook & Worksheet.
• Rows, Columns, Cells.
• Basic Formulas: =SUM, =AVERAGE, =MAX, =MIN and MORE.
• Charts: Bar Chart, Pie Chart.
• Practical Example: Monthly Budget Sheet.
• Exercise: Create a table of your daily expenses and calculate total.

Chapter 8: Internet Basics

• Introduction: Global network of computers.
• Browser: Chrome, Edge, Firefox.
• Search Engine: Google, Bing.
• Email: Create Gmail account, send & receive emails.
• Safety Tips: Avoid suspicious links, use antivirus.

Chapter 9: Computer Safety & Maintenance

• Antivirus Software: Protect from viruses.
• Data Backup: Save files in external drive or cloud.
• Regular Updates: Keep system secure.
• Tips for Speed: Delete unnecessary files, use Disk Cleanup.

Chapter 10: Practice Exercises

• Notepad: Write a shopping list.
• WordPad: Create a formatted invitation.
• Paint: Draw a flag.
• MS Word: Design a Resume.
• MS Excel: Prepare a marksheet.
• Internet: Search “Top 10 computer tips.”

Chapter 11: Shortcuts & Productivity

• Keyboard Shortcuts:
• Ctrl + C (Copy)
• Ctrl + V (Paste)
• Ctrl + Z (Undo)
• Ctrl + S (Save)
• Mouse Skills: Right-click menu, Drag & Drop.

Chapter 12: Future Learning Path

• After basics, move to:
• MS PowerPoint (Presentations).
• Advanced Excel (Formulas, Pivot Tables).
• Basic HTML & Web Design.

📖 Conclusion

This book gives you step-by-step knowledge of computer basics. By practicing exercises, you will gain confidence in using Notepad, WordPad, Paint, MS Word, MS Excel, and Internet.