Computer Applications

   
    As technology continues to expand, so do the applications we use. Today, there are millions of applications that are essential to businesses, schools, and even the everyday person. The most commonly used computer-based applications are word processors, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases. Each has its own unique use and offers endless possibilities for users to store information that can be shared with those around them. Computer applications enable us to quickly and efficiently store data, providing us with tools we need to excel in our day-to-day lives, but there can be challenges when learning how to utilize them to their fullest potential.

Word Processor

    Word processors allow users to create, format, and store text-based documents (Vahid & Lysecky, 2019). Though used primarily within schools for writing papers and businesses for creating memos and handouts of information, word processors can be utilized by anyone who needs to store their information and ideas. When it comes to documenting a day, a word processor is the most straightforward approach. Unlike a text-only application, word processors allow for endless customization options. Users can change their documents' size, font style, layout, and format. Word processors also enable users to insert images, icons, and shapes, adjust margins, and create bullet-point and numbered lists. There are also options for spelling and grammar checks within word processing applications, though there are times when the recommendations are not entirely accurate and may miss key errors within the text.

Spreadsheet

    Spreadsheet applications are best used for storing, calculating, and formatting data (Vahid & Lysecky, 2019). Users can enter endless amounts of numerical and text information within a spreadsheet’s cells. They are great for keeping track of inventory in a business setting or even creating a household budget. There are also features within the applications that allow the user to convert their information into several different forms of charts. Once you get past the learning curve of utilizing spreadsheets, the hundreds of built-in functions make calculating, sorting, and representing data convenient for all users.

Presentation

    Presentation applications allow users to showcase information to their audience in a fun and eye-catching way. Users can fully customize their slideshows or themes provided within the application. There are multiple animations, sounds, clip art, and text formatting options. When presenting, there are two sides: audience facing, showing only what the creator wants you to see, and the presenter facing, allowing you to see notes and have tools to track the amount of time you have been presenting, pause, and jump between slides (Vahid & Lysecky, 2019). The use of presentation applications is endless, from showing what you learned to teaching new topics to even showing your family your ideas for a summer vacation.

Database

    Database applications are used to store multiple sets of structured data that are accessible by multiple users (TestOut, n.d). Databases can be multidimensional, holding various levels of key information that can be accessed through queries, making it much easier to access, change, or delete what you need. Not only can a database store values, but it also has the ability to integrate objects such as photos or videos (Vahid & Lysecky, 2019). Databases are great for businesses, as you can store employee information such as names and phone numbers, assign keys such as employee ID numbers, and use operations to easily retrieve, edit, or add information as you go along. The most significant setback would be learning to create and use a database. Since there are many moving parts, getting over the learning curve can be challenging.


    When we think of computer-based applications, we often think of games, communication software, and photo editors, but the most utilized ones are word processors, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases. Without these applications, much of the information students, businesses, and the average day person need to store would have nowhere to go within our computers. Since there are so many different functions and ways to utilize them, there can be challenges when learning how and when to use them. Once you have down the basics, you will find that the possibilities are endless when it comes to safely and securely storing your information, ideas, and data.

References

TestOut. (n.d.). TestOut IT fundamentals pro. Canvas@UAGC.

Vahid, F., & Lysecky, S. (2019). Computing technology for all. zyBooks.