Microsoft Windows Overview

Microsoft Windows is by far the most commonly used computer operating system. Windows is responsible for running all of the other software on your PC. Whether you're using the new Windows 7, or a previous version, there are many details that users are commonly unaware of.

And now that Windows can be run on a Mac, even more people will be able to take advantage of Windows-based software. But are you taking full advantage of the Windows operating system? Do you know the tools and shortcuts that can help you work more quickly and efficiently? Take a look at this class outline to see what you might be missing.

Microsoft Windows

Introduction

  • What is Windows?
  • The Importance of File Extensions
  • The Folder Hierarchy
  • Context Sensitivity
  • When in doubt, right-click

TOPIC 1 – The Desktop

  • The Desktop Components
  • Arranging the Desktop

TOPIC 2 – Manipulating Windows

  • Starting a Program
  • Resizing and Moving Windows
  • Using Drop-down Menus
  • Scrolling with Bars and Buttons
  • The Slider Bar
  • Moving Around Among Multiple Windows

TOPIC 3 – Managing the Taskbar

  • Adding Icons and Toolbars
  • Resizing and Repositioning
  • Right-Click Options
  • Properties

TOPIC 4 – Managing Files and Folders

  • Saving Files
  • Creating New Folders
  • Opening Files
  • Cut, Copy and Paste Between Files
  • Moving Files and Folders

TOPIC 5 – Getting Help

  • The Help Tabs
  • Help Options
  • Using the "?" Button

TOPIC 6 – The Windows Explorer

  • The Explorer bar
  • Folder Hierarchy and Folder List
  • Outline Controls
  • Displaying Folder contents
  • Views, Columns, Sorting
  • Moving Files and Folders in the Explorer
  • Renaming and Deleting Files and Folders
  • Mapping to a Network Drive
  • Backing up Your Files

TOPIC 7 – Search

  • Searching by Name, Text, or Location
  • Search Options

TOPIC 8 – The Recycle Bin

  • Viewing
  • Restoring Files and Folders
  • Emptying
  • Properties

TOPIC 9 – Starting and Stopping

  • Using the Task Manager
  • Logging Off
  • Logging On