Windows 7 / Getting Started

Using Windows Accessories

Windows comes with several accessories, built-in programs that are extremely useful for completing every day tasks.

One of the most useful features Windows offers is the ability to use data created in one file in another file, even if the two files were created in different Windows programs. To work with more than one program or file at a time, you simply need to open them on your desktop. A program button on the taskbar represents any window that is open on the desktop. When you want to switch from one open window to another, click the program button on the taskbar. If you tile, or arrange open windows on the desktop so that they are visible, you can switch among them simply by clicking in the window in which you want to work.

Frequently Used Windows Accessories

ProgramDescription
CalculatorPerforms arithmetic calculations
Command PromptExecutes MS-DOS commands
Internet ExplorerDisplays web (HTML) pages
NotepadCreates, edits, and displays text only documents
PaintCreates and edits bitmap pictures
Snipping ToolCaptures different parts of the screen
Sound RecorderCreates and plays digital sound files
Sticky NotesCreates color notes on the screen
Windows DVD MakerBurns pictures and videos to DVDs
Windows Fax and ScanSends and receives faxes or scanned pictures and documents
Windows Live MessengerSends and receives instant messages to online contacts; you need to download the program from the web (http://download.live.com)
Windows Live MailProvides e-mail, newsgroup, and directory services; you need to download the program from the web (http://download.live.com)
Windows Live Movie MakerCreates movies using audio and video files; you need to download the program from the web (http://download.live.com)
Windows Live Photo GalleryViews, edits, organizes, and shares photos and videos; you need to download the program from the web (http://download.live.com)
Windows Live WriterCreates blogs with text, photos, and videos; you need to download the program from the web (http://download.live.com)
Windows Media CenterProvides entertainment options for digital and on-demand media
Windows Media PlayerPlays sound, music, and video
WordPadCreates, edits, and displays text, Rich Text Format, and Word documents
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In this tutorial:

  1. Working with Windows Programs
  2. Starting and Exiting a Program
  3. Changing the Way a Program Starts
  4. Using Windows Accessories
  5. Creating a Document
  6. Editing Text
  7. Formatting Text
  8. Setting Paragraph Tabs
  9. Setting Paragraph Indents
  10. Previewing and Printing a Document
  11. Saving and Closing a Document
  12. Sharing Information Among Programs
  13. Inserting and Editing Information
  14. Linking and Updating Information
  15. Inserting Special Characters
  16. Calculating Numbers
  17. Running Commands
  18. Playing Games
  19. Snipping the Screen
  20. Running Older Programs
  21. Quitting a Program Not Responding