Word Processing Packages

Word processing software is used to create, manipulate, and print documents. Documents can be any kind of text material. Some examples of documents are letters, memos, term papers, reports, and contracts.
The beauty of the computer word processor is that users can make any changes or corrections before printing out the document. Even after usersr document is printed out, users can easily go back and make changes. Users can then print it out again. Popular word processing packages include WordPerfect, MS-Word, and MacWrite. These word processing packages allow users to do the following interesting features:

• Word Wrap/Enter Key: One outstanding word processing feature is a word wrap. A word processor decides for Users and automatically moves the cursor to the next line. As users keep typing, the words "wrap around" to the next line. To begin a new paragraph or leave a blank line, users press the Enter key.

• Search/Replace: A search command allows users to find any wcircleord or number that users know exists in usersr document. When users search, the cursor will move to the first place where the item appears. The replace command automatically replaces the word users search for with another word. The search and replace commands are useful for finding and fixing errors.

• Block/Move: The portion of text users wish to move is a block. Users mark the block by giving commands that produce highlighting, a band of light over the area. The task of moving the block is called a block move. The block command may also be used to delete text or to copy chunks of text into another document.

• Margins: Margins may be justified to right, left or full (right and left at the same time) in the most word processing packages. That is, they may be evened up to the right, left or both side simultaneously.

• Centering/Emphasizing: Headings of a document may be centered. Words or phrases may be typed underlined or boldface (extra dark lettering) for emphasis.

• Spelling Checker: A spelling- checker program can check spelling errors in a document automatically.

• Thesaurus: This programs enable users to quickly find the right word or an alternative word by presenting users with an on-screen thesaurus.

• Mail Merge: This feature allows users to merge different names and addresses so that users can mail out the same form letter to different people.

• Desktop Publishing: Today's advanced word processing programs can perform desktop publishing capabilities. This feature enables users to mix text and graphics to produce newsletters and other publications of nearly professional quality.

• Outliner: Sometimes called idea processors. It helps users organize and outline usersr thoughts before users prepare a document or develop a presentation.

• Grammar/Style Checker: These programs can be used to identify and correct grammar and punctuation errors.

• Importing: Most of the programs have an importing feature. Files may be retrieved from nontext programs such as spreadsheets and graphics and added to the word processing program.