Basic+Computer+Terminology


 * Application -** A program file. (Word, PowerPoint, Access, etc.)


 * CD-Rom -** storage device for electronic informaiton: files, programs, sounds and images.


 * Clipboard -** An electronic holding area for whatever you copy or cut. The item is held on the clipboard until another item is copied onto the clipboard in its place. This allows you to paste it many times.


 * Commands -** Instruction that you give to your computer.


 * Control Panel -** Programs that change the way your computer interacts with you. The control panel is where the settings for the computer can be changed.


 * Copy -** Takes the item you want to copy and places it onto the clipboard without removing it from the document.


 * Cursor -** The arrow, or I-beam, that moves around when you move the mouse or type.


 * Cut -** Removes an item from the document and places it in the clipboard.


 * Desktop -** The screen you see when you are not working in a program and when you first start up your computer. You can change the image on the desktop in the control panel.


 * Dialog Box -** A pop-up box with choices about how you would like your computer to respond to a request.


 * Document -** This is what you make when you create something on the computer where your information is actually stored. For example, letters, pictures, spreadsheets, etc.


 * Drag and Drop -** The name for a technology in Software that lets you select, then move things by clicking and dragging, then dropping the item where you want it moved to.


 * Edit Menu -** Lets you change document contents. Cut, Copy, Paste are here. (The Home tab in office 2007 and newer.)


 * Email -** Text-based electronic file transfer that sends text across an Internet connection, address to address.


 * External Drive -** Any storage device that hooks up to your computer, usually via USB port or cable.


 * File -** Documents and Programs are both stored on the computer as file types. Any document you create is stored as a file.


 * Folder -** A place on your computer to store files. Folders are used to organize your files and programs in a logical manner. Folders open a window that shows files. You can usually choose how your folders display the files, such as icons or lists.


 * Hard Drive -** Sits inside your computer and holds your information, programs, etc.


 * Hardware -** The plastic and metal parts of your computer.