What
is Word Processing?
Word
processing allows you to process text. With a traditional typewriter
or handwriting, once a document is committed to paper, the user
is stuck with its appearance and layout, as well as the sequence
of the words. Items could be erased or cut out, but the results
are usually poor.
As
a word processor stores information electronically, alterations
can be made to the file at any stage of its production. Corrections
can easily be made, page layout and appearance (spacing, font,
typeface, colour etc) can be modified rapidly. Even the sequence
in which items are placed can be manipulated.
For
example, word processors are admirably suited to creating a CV.
A number of different formats could be used and created all from
the same standard file. Different items could be highlighted (for
example education experience for a teaching job), by saving the
same file in a number of different locations with relevant file
names.
Letters
to friends could be typed once, with details specific to each
friend inserted. A standardised report format could be used for
students. Advertising could be created by using personalised mail
to send to clients or prospective students.
For
use in specific instances, the appearance of a document can be
altered (eg. black text on yellow or pastel paper) or larger fonts
and letter sizes for dyslexic or visually impaired students, allowing
the promotion of inclusive learning.
A
number of different kinds of word processor software packages
exist: 'integrated' word processors are usually included as part
of a package such as Microsoft Works, Claris Works or Lotus Works.
Fully-featured word processors, usually part of an 'Office Suite'
include a full range of tools designed to expedite text processing.
For example, the capacity to use automatic footnotes, use and
create graphics in documents. Examples include Microsoft Word,
Lotus Write/AmiPro, Corel WordPerfect etc. The files produced
can be stored electronically for later modification, or printed
out in a variety of formats.
Word-processing
packages are relatively easy to use and users can become proficient
in a short space of time. Users can expect to produce a professionally
laid out document during their first session on the computer.
You do not need to be a trained typist to use a word processor,
as mistakes can be corrected on a screen before you obtain a print-out.
If the print-out is not to your satisfaction, you can amend or
rearrange your text and underline, centre a title and move a paragraph
as you wish on the screen, before obtaining another print-out.
As
you work through this section, look closely at the styles and
techniques used to make the text easier to read. Usually entitled
'formatting' there are three different kinds:
-
Character formatting - bold, underline, italics.
-
Paragraph formatting - location on page, how far it starts from
the left hand margin etc.
- Page
formatting - portrait and landscape orientation, headers and
footers, page numbers.
A
variety of other techniques may be used - inserted graphics tables
and line drawings etc.
 Contents:
Word Processing
Skill
Check: Word Processing
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