What a Computer Can Do for You
A computer is a tool that follows your instructions to store information, find things, create documents, send messages, watch videos, and handle money. You control it with a keyboard, mouse, or touchpad. The screen shows you what is happening, and the computer remembers what you tell it to save.
Most computers run one of three systems: Windows (made by Microsoft), macOS (made by Apple), or a Linux-based system. The steps for doing the same task may look slightly different depending on which one you have, but the basic idea is the same on all of them.
Key Takeaways
- Turn on your computer, wait for it to fully load, then use the keyboard and mouse to give it instructions.
- The desktop is your starting point — it shows icons (small pictures) that represent programs you can open by double-clicking them.
- A web browser like Chrome or Firefox lets you search the internet and visit websites by typing an address in the search bar.
- You can create and save documents, spreadsheets, and emails using programs that come built in or that you read.
- Always save your work regularly so you do not lose it if the computer shuts down unexpectedly.
Starting Your Computer and Getting Oriented
Press the power button on your computer or laptop. On a desktop, this is usually on the front or back of the tower. On a laptop, it is typically at the top corner of the keyboard. The screen will light up and show a series of loading screens — this takes one to three minutes the first time you turn it on each day.
Once the computer finishes loading, you will see the desktop — a background image with small icons arranged on it. These icons represent programs (also called applications or apps) that you can open. Below or to the side, you will see a taskbar or dock — a strip showing programs that are currently running or that you use often.
If your computer asks for a password when it starts, type it in and press Enter. This protects your files if someone else uses the computer. If you forget your password, you will need to contact the person who set up the computer or the manufacturer's support line.
Using the Keyboard and Mouse
The mouse is a small device you move around on a flat surface (or a touchpad on a laptop). As you move it, a pointer (usually an arrow) moves on the screen. Clicking means pressing the left button once — this selects something or opens it. Double-clicking means pressing the left button twice quickly — this usually opens a program or file.
The keyboard has letter keys, number keys, and special keys. Typing on it enters text into documents, search boxes, and messages. The Enter key (sometimes labeled Return) confirms what you typed. The Backspace key deletes the character before your cursor. The Space bar adds a space between words.
Right-clicking (pressing the right mouse button) opens a menu of options related to whatever you clicked on. This is useful for copying, pasting, or deleting things. On a laptop touchpad, you may need to use two fingers or press a specific area to right-click — check your laptop's manual if you are unsure.
Opening Programs and Finding What You Need
To open a program, look for its icon on the desktop or in the taskbar and double-click it. Common programs that come built in include a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge), a text editor (Notepad or Word), a file manager (to see your folders and files), and a calculator.
A web browser is how you access the internet. Open it by double-clicking its icon. At the top, you will see a search bar or address bar — click in it and type what you are looking for (for example, "weather" or "gmail.com"). Press Enter, and the browser will show you results or take you to that website.
The file manager shows you where your files are stored. It displays folders (containers for files) and files (documents, photos, videos). Double-click a folder to open it and see what is inside. This is how you find documents you have saved or organize your files into groups.
Creating and Saving Your Work
To create a new document, open a program like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or the built-in text editor. Start typing. As you work, save your document regularly by pressing Ctrl+S (hold the Ctrl key and press S at the same time) or by clicking File and then Save.
The first time you save, the computer will ask you to name the file and choose where to put it. Give it a clear name like "Grocery List" or "Resume 2024" so you can find it later. Choose a folder like Documents or Desktop. Then click Save.
After you have saved once, pressing Ctrl+S will update that same file with any new changes you made. If you want to save a copy with a different name, click File and then Save As, give it a new name, and click Save again.
Connecting to the Internet and Email
Most computers connect to the internet through WiFi or a cable. If your computer is near a WiFi router, click the WiFi icon (usually in the bottom right corner on Windows or top right on Mac), select your network name, and enter the password if asked.
To check email, open your web browser and go to gmail.com, outlook.com, or whatever email service you use. Log in with your email address and password. You will see your inbox — a list of messages people have sent you. Click on a message to read it. To write a new message, look for a button that says "Compose" or "New Email" and click it.
Type the recipient's email address in the "To" field, add a subject line, write your message, and click Send. The message will arrive in their inbox within seconds.
Staying Safe While Using Your Computer
Never share your password with anyone except someone you trust completely. Change your password every few months by going to your account settings and looking for a "Change Password" option.
Be careful about what you click on. If an email or website asks you to click a link or read something, and you do not recognize who sent it, do not click it. Harmful files can damage your computer or steal your information.
Keep your computer updated. When your computer tells you there are updates available, install them — they fix security problems. Also, use antivirus software (Windows Defender comes built in on Windows computers) to scan for harmful files.
If something goes wrong — the screen freezes, a program stops responding, or you see an error message — try restarting your computer. Press the power button and hold it for ten seconds until the screen goes black, then press the power button again to turn it back on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a laptop and a desktop computer?
A laptop is portable and has a built-in keyboard and screen. A desktop has a separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and stays in one place. Both do the same things — the choice depends on whether you need to move your computer around.
How do I make text bigger on the screen?
On Windows, right-click on the desktop, select Display Settings, and look for a zoom or scale option. On Mac, go to System Preferences, click Displays, and adjust the resolution. You can also zoom in on a single webpage by pressing Ctrl and the plus key (+) together, or Cmd and plus on a Mac.
What should I do if I forget my password?
If you forgot your Windows password, restart the computer and look for a "Reset Password" link on the login screen. If you forgot your email password, go to the login page and click "Forgot Password" — the service will send you a recovery link. If you set up a recovery email or phone number, you can use those to reset it.
Can I undo something I deleted by accident?
Yes. Press Ctrl+Z (or Cmd+Z on a Mac) to undo your last action. This works in most programs. If you deleted a file from your computer, check the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac) — you can usually restore it from there if you have not emptied it yet.
How do I print a document?
Open the document you want to print, press Ctrl+P (or Cmd+P on a Mac), select your printer from the list, choose how many copies you want, and click Print. Make sure your printer is turned on and connected to your computer before you try to print.