Computer software

Computer software consists of the programs, or lists of instructions, that control the operation of a computer. Application software can be used for the following purposes:

* As a productivity/business tool
* To assist with graphics and multimedia projects
* To support household activities, for personal business, or for education
* To facilitate communications

Productivity Software Productivity software is designed to make people more effective and efficient when performing daily activities. It includes applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation graphics, personal information management, graphics and multimedia, communications, and other related types of software. Word-processing software is used to create documents such as letters, memos, reports, mailing labels, and newsletters. This software is used to create attractive and professional-looking documents that are stored electronically, allowing them to be retrieved and revised. The software provides tools to correct spelling and grammatical mistakes, permits copying and moving text without rekeying, and provides tools to enhance the format of documents. Electronic spreadsheet software is used in business environments to perform numeric calculations rapidly and accurately. Data are keyed into rows and columns on a worksheet, and formulas and functions are used to make fast and accurate calculations. Spreadsheets are used for "what-if" analyses and for creating charts based on information in a worksheet. A database is a collection of data organized in a manner that allows access, retrieval, and use of that data. A database management system (DBMS) is used to create a computerized database; add, change, and delete data; sort and retrieve data from the database; and create forms and reports using the data in the database. Presentation graphics software is used to create presentations, which can include clip-art images, pictures, video clips, and audio clips as well as text. A personal information manager is a software application that includes an appointment calendar, address book, and notepad to help organize personal information such as appointments and task lists. Engineers, architects, desktop publishers, and graphic artists often use graphics and multimedia software such as computer-aided design, desktop publishing, video and audio entertainment, and Web page authoring. Software for communications includes groupware, e-mail, and Web browsers.