SKILL ACQUISITION AN ENTERPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT

SAED

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 TRAINING CORE OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this training programme is not to make you a computer
guru overnight, but rather to teach you the basic skills that will enable you
become more comfortable with accessing and using frequently used
computer programs such as MS-Windows, MS-Word, MS-Excel & MS-
Power Point

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 TRAINING METHODOLOGY
We will use a conversational and non-technical way to introduce the introductory skills that you
will need to develop in order to become comfortable with accessing and using computer programs.
We will concentrate on the skills that will apply to many commonly used programs.
Topics to be covered include:

1. INTRODUCTION TO PC, HARDWARE BASICS & ICT

2. WINDOWS BASICS (MS - WINDOWS 7)
3. WORKING WITH WORD PROCESSING (MS – WORD 2007)
4. WORKING WITH SPREADSHEET (MS – EXCEL 2007)
5. THE INTERNET

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 INTRODUCTION
Computer is fast becoming the universal machine of the 21st century. Early computers were large
in size and too expensive to be owned by individuals. Thus they were confined to the laboratories
and few research institutes. They could only be programmed by computer engineers. The basic
applications were confined to undertaking complex calculations in science and engineering. Today,
computer is no longer confined to the laboratory. Computers and indeed, computing have become
embedded in almost every item we use. Computing is fast becoming ubiquitous. Its application
transcends science, engineering, communication, space science, aviation, financial institutions,
social sciences, humanities, the military, transportation, manufacturing, extractive industries to
mention but a few.

Also, early computers were designed to accept numeric data but over the years computers have
been developed to accept not only numeric data, computers can now process multimedia data –
text, audio and video. The combination of Computer Technology and Communications
Technology gave birth to what is now widely known as INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
TECHNOLOGIES (ICT).

ICT has changed the face of virtually, all fields of human endeavour, ranging from science to
engineering, commerce and industry, international trade, transportation, culture and tourism,
education and research, among others. Nowadays, literacy is not only measured by the ability to
read and write, but also include computer literacy. The wave of globlisation which has been largely
propelled by the collapse of barriers of distance between nations and peoples in the world as a
result of ICT, makes it imperative for the modern man to have at least the basic knowledge of
computers.

This ICT Skill Acquisition Entrepreneurship Development (SAED)Training programme is not meant
to turn you into a computer guru overnight but rather to teach you the basic components of
computers, to teach you those skills that will enable you be more comfortable with the use
computer programs, and some of its applications in the society so as to encourage participants
pick a career in any of the ICT subsectors like Networking, Maintenance, Software Development
(Both Mobile & Desktop Systems), Graphics Designs and a host of others etc.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) is a branch of engineering dealing with the use of computers and
telecommunications equipment to store, retrieve, transmit and manipulate data. The device that
stores, retrieves, transmits and manipulate data is known as COMPUTERS, but for a better
understanding, a computer can be define as follows:

WHAT IS A COMPUTER?
A Computer is an Electronics / Mechanical Machine that is capable of accepting raw fact (Data) as
INPUT via the use of some input devices such as Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Light Pen,
Digitizers/Optical Camera etc, PROCESS this raw fact by performing both logical and numerical
operation on the raw fact using some sequence of instruction called Software/Program, thereby
generating the desired result as OUTPUT within the shortest time given.

COMPUTER SYSTEM
A computer does not work alone; it needs other components which may not actually be part of it,
to make it work. All the components that make a computer function are known as a COMPUTER
SYSTEM. A system is an organized body of things working together to make a complex whole. A
computer system is more than just the computer alone; it includes all other things that make the
computer function.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
It is worthy to note that a complete computer system is comprised of three (3) major components,
viz:
A. HUMANWARE
B. HARDWARE
C. SOFTWARE

A. HUMAN WARE
The Humanware are the computer End-Users. They can be grouped into two (2) categories such as
OPERATORS and POWER USERS.

The Computer Operators are those that are responsible for Typesetting, Computer
Graphics etc. In most cases their knowledge and experience is basically towards the use
of Application Software. Whereas Power - Users are those who are knowledgeable and
experienced in handling Computer Software and the Hardware part of a computer. This
simply means that any fault in a computer, a Power - User should be able to find a lasting
solution to the problems be it hardware or software.

B. HARDWARE
The Computer Hardware are those component of the computer unit that can be
seen, touched or carried about. Those parts that are movable from one point to
another point. The followings are the list of the major computer hardware
components. The list includes:
1. System Unit also known as Processor
2. Monitor / Terminal / Visual Display Unit (VDU) / Screen
3. Keyboard
4. Mouse / Ball Point / Light Pen
5. Joystick
6. Scanners / Optical Camera / Touch Screen / Digitizers etc
7. Printer/Plotters
THE CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT (CPU)
HOW THE COMPUTER PROCESS INPUTTED DATA

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
INPUT DEVICES
The most common Input devices are Keyboard and the Mouse. The Keyboard looks; like an
extended typewriter keyboard. The mouse is a pointing device used to activate commands in
Windows Application Software. Other examples of Input devices are: Light Pen, Touch Screen,
Digitizer, Scanner, Optical Camera, etc.

OUTPUT DEVICES
This is the device used to display information being entered into the Computer by the users or
being sent from the computer to the user. Examples are: Screen (VDU - Visual Display Unit),
Printers, and Plotters etc.

STORAGE DEVICES
These are devices used to store data. Examples are: Magnetic Disk (Hard Disk and Diskettes), Tape
(including cartridge), Compact Disk Read Only Memory (CD-ROM), Zip Drive and Flash Drive

PROCESSING DEVICE
The Processing Device houses three vital resources viz:
A. CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT
This is widely regarded as the brain of the computer. Its function is to execute programs
stored in the main memory by fetching their instruction, examining them and then execute
them one after another. The CPU is composed of several distinct parts:

CONTROL UNIT: It is responsible for fetching instructions from main memory and
determining their type.

ALU: (Arithmetic and Logical Unit) which performs operation such as additions needed to
carry out the instructions.

B. MAIN MEMORY
This is the Primary Memory of the computer; it is usually referred to as the Working
Memory of the computer. It is a primary memory needed to allow for calculations and
temporary storage of result. It is also referred to as Random Access Memory (RAM).
The RAM = Temporary Memory = Main Memory = Working Memory.

C. MASS MEMORY
Which Is the Secondary Memory of the computer, is the permanent memory of the
computer. Materials (Data) stored in this memory remain there permanently. The secondary
memory is of two forms: Fixed Disk (Hard Disk) or the Removable memory like the Floppy
Diskette, Cartridges, CD / DVD -ROM.
The Mass Memory = Permanent Memory = Auxiliary Memory = Secondary Memory =
Storage Device
The insertion position for the Removable Memory unit is called DRIVE. The drives are
labelled as:
DRIVE A - 3.5" Floppy Disk Drive
DRIVE B - 5¼" Floppy Disk Drive
DRIVE C - Reserved For Hard Disk Drive
DRIVE D - CD - ROM / DVD – ROM Drive
DRIVE E - Optional Drive (E.g. Flash Drive / Memory Card Drive)

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
MEASURING COMPUTER MEMORY
The Unit of Measuring Memory is BYTE. A Byte is any amount of space required to store one
character of information, hence:
1Kilobyte (KB) = 1,000Bytes
1Megabyte (MB) = 1,000,000Bytes
1Gigabyte (GB) = 1,000,000,000Bytes
1Terabyte (TB) = 1,000,000,000,000Bytes
BIT
A Bit is an address where data are found during computer execution.
Eight (8) bits is equal to a byte. i.e 8 Bits = 1 Byte

DISKETTE
Before the advent of computer network, the diskettes are the easiest means of transferring
information from one computer to another. There are two popular types of floppy diskettes: the
HIGH DENSITY - HD diskette with a usual capacity of 1.44MB and the DOUBLE DENSITY - DD
diskette with a capacity of 720KB but as at today’s technology has improved beyond the use of a
Floppy Diskettes, Flash Drives and Memory Card are now in use all over the places.

3.5” FLOOPPY DISK DRIVE 51/4” FLOPPY DISK DRIVE

HIGH DENSITY (HD) DOUBLE DENSITY (DD) DOUBLE DENSITY (DD) SINGLE SIDE (SS)
2.0MB OR 1.44MB 720KB 1.2MB 720KB, 360KB, 330KB

3.0 TYPES OF COMPUTERS

The computers in the market are divided into three groups:
a. ANALOG COMPUTERS
b. DIGITAL COMPUTERS
c. HYBRID COMPUTERS

A. ANALOG COMPUTERS
These are computers in which data are represented by a continuously variable physical
quantity such as Voltage, Pressure, Temperature or Angular Position. This types of
computers are designed to perform calculation based on physical quantities rather than
coded characters (Numbers or letters). The outputs of Analog computers are usually shown
on meter or in the form of graph. Examples of these are THERMOMETER, AMMETER, the
HUMAN BRAIN and PETROL DISPENSERS at Petrol Stations. You will notice that they
operate in a similar fashion, i.e. in one smooth continuous form. Analogue computers
operate by accepting data as a quantity varying over a length of time. They are mostly used
in industrial operations.

B. DIGITAL COMPUTERS
These are computers that receive and process data and instruction represented by
combination of discrete (individual) Pulse, codes or numbers usually denoted by the binary
digits 0 and 1. These groups of computers are the most widely used computers at homes
and offices.

C. HYBRID COMPUTERS
These are groups of computers that consist of combination of Analog Computers and Digital
Computers. These set of computers are usually employed in specialized functions.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 DIGITAL COMPUTERS IN A BROAD PERSPECTIVE
The digital computers are subdivided into five (5) main groups, they are:
a. DEDICATED COMPUTERS
b. SUPERCOMPUTERS (VERY BIG COMPUTERS)
c. MAINFRAME COMPUTER (BIG COMPUTERS)
d. MINICOMPUTERS (MEDIUM COMPUTERS)
e. MICROCOMPUTERS (SMALL COMPUTERS)

A DEDICATED COMPUTERS
These are computers that are designed to carry out certain kind of task. Examples of these
computers are: Washing Machine, Calculators, Wrist Watch, Cameras, Robots and Remote
Control etc.
However, the instruction which control these computers are usually built into them so that
the device that uses them appears to operate automatically with little or no intervention
from the user.

B. SUPER COMPUTERS
These groups of computers are the biggest and most complex form of computers ever
made. They are designed to handle complex mathematical calculation involving very large
number of variables, such as the ones used for weather forecast and shooting of missiles.

C. MAINFRAME COMPUTERS
These groups of computers are less powerful than the supercomputer both in terms of size
and speed of processing data. The mainframe computers process data at a high speed and
allow fast input and output of data. It is also capable of linking up many smaller computers
(microcomputers). The mainframe computers are often becoming obsolete, they can be
found in such institutions such as NNPC, CBN, SPDC, DSC – Warri.

D MINI-COMPUTERS
These are smaller versions of the mainframe computers. They can be found in institutions
like WAEC and JAMB Offices.

E. MICRO-COMPUTERS
These groups of computers constitute the largest portion of computers both at homes and
offices. It uses a microprocessor chip for its central processing unit. They are relatively
cheap, small and are normally operated by one person at a time.
The microcomputers are also subdivided into the following:
• Desktop Computers
• Tower Computers
• Mini-Tower Computers
• Laptop Computers
• Note Book
• Palmtop Computers – Calculators, GSM Handset, Organizers, Address Book etc.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
4.0 SOME APPLICATIONS OF COMPUTER

a. USING COMPUTERS FOR COMMUNICATION

DATA COMMUNICATION has been one key area that came about as a result of the marriage
of COMPUTERS with TELECOMMUNICATION. The fruitful union means that when two or
more computers are connected on the telephone network, whatever is contained (stored) in
each machine can be sent in a matter of seconds to the others. Distance is immaterial, once
the location in which each computer is located is connected by phone.

Furthermore, the telephone was initially meant for voice contact with the other people, but
now virtually anything – a letter, a book, photograph, X – ray films etc. can be transmitted
by computers over the telecommunication network. And while the normal telephone is one
to one, the data in one machine can be sent simultaneously to unlimited number of others.
Other benefits of data communication through the use of computers are:
1. E-mail 2. Bulletin Board Service (BBS) and 3. Internet

b. ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS

In the past, Architects and Engineers relied on draughts–men to draw their designs to scale
using pencil and paper. It therefore usually takes very many draughts – men working for
many months to produce the complete drawings of big building such as skyscrapers. Errors
were therefore quite common.
With the introduction of Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, the work of architects and
engineers has become quite easy and fast. What used to take months and many men to do
is now done by one person in a few minutes.

c. MAP MAKING
It is much easier to make maps of any part of the world, down to street maps of major
towns, using computer aided Geographical Information System (GIS) software.
d. ROBOTICS
This is a very special application of computers to manufacturing. Most robots are single
mechanical arms controlled by computers, to accomplish a specific task such as painting,
welding, picking and placing and so on. Industrial robots best perform tasks that are
repetitive and those that require precision movements of heavy loads, in hazardous areas.
The car manufacturing industry is the largest user of robots in the area of painting and
welding, followed by the electronic industry (circuit connecting chips to circuit boards).
Robots are also becoming important in the medical field, especially in the brain surgery,
where accuracy is of prime concern. Once programmed, robot does not need much
attention.

e. OFFICE AUTOMATION
Rather than keep records in file cabinets, Database Management Software (DBMS) are now
available. Also available are computer controlled photocopiers that can reduce or enlarge
which have replaced duplicating machines.
Also, instead of overhead projectors, we now have computer presentation graphics and
projector TV monitors.

f. MEDICINE
Three common tools of medicine are microscopes, stethoscopes and x-Ray machines. But
with computerization, we now have electronic microscopes, electronic stethoscopes and
computerized axial tomography respectively, all designed for a more detailed and extremely

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 accurate diagnosis of illness. Today as a result of Technological Advancement, Surgical
operations are now aided by computer controlled laser equipments. Medical health systems
software’s are now available which medical doctors can use to diagnose illness by answering
some guided questions based on patient response and physical behaviour.

g. TRANSPORTATION
Starting with road traffic control lights, human transportation has become dependent on
computers. Aircrafts are now mainly airborne supercomputers, with capacity to work
automatically with little or no direct attention by the pilot. Airbus 300 plane, for instance,
all that is virtually required is for the pilot to watch over very many tiny computer monitors
showing the performance of the plane while in flight. The plane is able to land by itself, if
necessary. Today we have modern tube trains, planes, and cars that are completely under
the control of computer. They require little or no human intervention.

i. ACCOUNTING
The accounting profession probably has benefited the most from the use of computers.
Before the computer age, the ledger, which is a book of spreadsheets, was the accountant’s
main tool for keeping a record of finances. But then came Electronic Spreadsheets, which
are simply a computerized alternative to the bookkeeper’s ledger. All accounting jobs, such
as payroll, income and expenditure records, profit and loss statements, personnel profiles,
and budget summaries, etc; are better done with computerized accounting software.

j. ENTERTAINMENT
Computers have had quite an impact on the entertainment industry. Many special effects
and even the sets for some movies are generated with computers graphics. Animation for
cartoons and movies are no longer drawn manually by artists. Most of the scenes and
characters are drawn, by hand or with a computer, then manipulated with computer graphic
to create the illustration of motion. That is not all; computer graphics has made it possible
to revive old black and white movies into colour.

COMPUTERS NETWORKING AND INFORMATION COMMUNICATION

The Oxford Dictionary defines NETWORK as: The arrangement of objects intersecting horizontally
and vertically OR People connected by exchange of information professionally or socially OR chains
of interconnected computers that are meant for broadcast on a network.

COMPUTER NETWORK
Computer network is a group of interconnected computers capable of exchanging information
through common logical and physical resources. This inters – connection is made possible via an
agreed and acceptable protocol.

LOGICAL RESOURCES
Logical resources shared within a network environment are data, instructions / programs designed
to carry out task. They include the network manager program (Novel, Windows NT), operating
system (MS DOS, PC-DOS, DR-DOS, Windows ’95 or ’98, ME, XP, VISTA etc). Device drivers
(HIMEM.SYS, EMM386.EXE) etc

PHYSICAL RESOURCES
Physical resources shared within a network environment are things you can see, feel and touch.
They include disk drive (Floppy and Hard (Fixed) Disk drive), printers, scanners, uninterrupted
power supply (UPS) etc.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
Network was designed primarily for communication. In order to transmit digital signals along
analogue circuit, it is, therefore, necessary, first of all, to convert them to a form, which is
acceptable, to the circuits, which are provided. The devices which perform this conversion process
are known as Modulator - Demodulator. (MODEM)

In a network environment, where there is a host central computer to which all other computers
and computer equipments are connected, these resources can be installed, and once
communication is established, all connected nodes can share the hardware and software resources
installed in the host computer.

The workstations are the individual personal computers connected to the ‘host’ computer referred
to as the server. The server becomes a place to store files and manage the network, as well as a
place to connect shared printers and other resources.

TYPES OF COMPUTER NETWORKING

Basically there are three (3) different types of computers networking which include:

1. LOCAL AREA NETWORKING (LAN)

This is a method of inter-connecting computers, peripherals or/other communication
devices within a short distance. For example, inter-connections within buildings, libraries,
hotels, hospitals, between rooms and halls etc.

2. METROPOLITAN AREA NETWORK (MAN)

This is type of network protocol which interfaces different computers / peripherals within a
wider geographical location with the aim of effective data transfer. For instance within a
geographical mass like town or state. This is mostly used by Radio and Television stations.

3. WIDE AREA NETWORK (WAN)

This is the inter-connection of computers, peripherals or / and other communication devices
between two or more different geographical areas through many intermediate nodes. For
instance between countries, continents, etc. This is the type of communication link used for
the INTERNET.

NETWORK TOPOLOGY
Network topology simply refers to the way in which network nodes are (inter-connected) linked up.
There are different types of network topology which include:
1. BUS NETWORK TOPOLOGY
When computers or nodes are in serial connection with each other, the topology is called
BUS. Transmission from any node propagates simultaneously in both directions through the
medium

Fig 1.1

2. STAR NETWORK TOPOLOGY

When computers or nodes are connected to a central node through which all other
computers / nodes can communicate with each other, the network topology is said to be
STAR

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 Fig. 1.2

3. RING NETWORK TOPOLOGY

When several computers or nodes are inter-connected to each other in a form of closed
loop, the topology is called RING. Signals in this topology are transmitted in one direction,
transferring from one node to another until the destination is reached.

Fig. 1.3

INTERNATIONAL NETWORT - INTERNET

One of the facilities of the network is the internet. Internet is highly advanced computerized
information data bank networked to serve other computer networks across the globe. Internet is
in the airwaves and can only reach users after it must have been downloaded by a local carrier to
which other local area networks are linked. Today, worldwide web, TELNET, CompuServe, and a
host of others are serving as gateway to the internet in different parts of the world.

Once you are connected to the internet, you can access a wealth of information, including news
and weather information, software, and games. Indeed an internet is a worldwide network of
thousands of smaller computer networks and millions of commercial, education, government and
personal computers. The internet is like an electronic city with virtual libraries, storefronts, business
offices, art galleries, and so on. This technology and satellite technology have turned to the world
into global village.

BASIC REQUIREMENT FOR INTERNET CONNECTIVITY

• A personal computer with full multimedia facilities
• Adequate power supply
• The system must be equipped with a working MODEM / VSAT / BROADBAND
• If a VSAT / BROADBAND is in use, then a Subscription with any of the commercialized
Internet Service Providers (ISP) is also required

ELECTRONIC MAIL (E-MAIL)

As the name implied it is electronic means of transferring documents from one node to another. It
is an advance means of posting mails through sound computerized information network.
SOME SAMPLE E-MAIL ADDRESS
1. [email protected] 2. [email protected] 3. [email protected]
4. [email protected] 5. [email protected]

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
BULLETIN BOARD SERVICE (BBS)
BBS is an electronic notice board, which is accessible to users via a computerized network of
information. BBS also has the facilities of E-mail.

IDENTIFYING A COMPLETE COMPUTER HARDWARES

CPU (Central Processing Unit): This box is the brain of a computer system. It processes,
stores, and communicates information. Wires connect your CPU to your monitor and
other devices. Computers are somewhat similar to people. They have memories just like
us. The memory on a computer is stored in data on disks. Disks look like small heavy old
style records. Disks function similarly like records. As the disk spins inside the computer,
the data on the disk is accessed. The programs that you use (such as word-processing) and
the program that runs your computer (the operating system) are stored on the CPU’s hard disk.

Monitor: This part of the computer system that visually communicates with the
user. It is somewhat like a television. Almost all information communicated from
the computer to the user is through the monitor. (The monitor is also referred to
as “the screen”).

Power Switch:
On most computer systems, both the CPU and the monitor have a power switch
that turns them on and off. Most power switches have this symbol.

Printer: This device takes information (usually text and pictures) from the comput
er and prints it on paper.

Keyboard: The keyboard is an important tool that allows a user to

communicate with the computer. It is composed of “keys” that send a
signal to the computer that the computer recognizes and uses to carry out
processes and programs. Keyboards come in various shapes and sizes, but serve generally the same
purpose. We’ll go over the specific keys in another part of this guide.

Mouse: Similar to the keyboard, the mouse is used to communicate with the
computer. The mouse is like a remote control to a TV—It is a tool that drives the
computer that can be used “away from the computer;” though the mouse is
considered your direct connection into the computer world. We’ll go over how to
use the mouse later in the guide.

Welcome to the Computer

The first thing to understand is that it’s difficult to “break” a computer.
They are designed to recover from most things a user does to them with a
few clicks.

Computers come in many different shapes, sizes, colors, and speeds, but they all essentially
perform the same tasks. Most computers and mice are very similar; but sometimes a computer
might have an extra button or two. While working with computers requires some flexibility and
adaptation to different computer designs, you will find this easy to learn.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
Also, within a computer, there are many ways to do the same task. Lastly, the important hint to
keep in mind when you’re using a computer is to be patient. Sometimes the computer has to
“think” too!.

Keyboard and Mouse

The keyboard and mouse are the two most common ways that users
communicate with a computer – or tell the computer what they want it
to do.

First, we’ll look at a keyboard and show you that it’s somewhat like a typewriter that has some
fancy tools to help you more effectively communicate with the computer. A mouse is a little bit like
a television remote – and also helps you tell the computer what to do.

Keys on the Keyboard

Caps Lock Key The caps lock key activates a feature that affects only the letter keys. Pressing on the caps lock button causes all
letter keys to type in uppercase. All other keys will act the same as if caps lock is off. To deactivate caps lock, press
the caps lock key again.
Shift Key The shift key is used in combination with a second key. The shift key is used primarily to capitalize letters. Shift
differs from caps lock because you have to hold the shift key down while simultaneously pressing another key to
capitalize a letter, where you only press the caps lock key once. Holding down the shift key also is used to type the
characters and symbols above the numbers on the number keys.
Tab Key The tab key is used to move from one position on the screen to another. It also creates a “tab stop” (right 1/2 inch)
indentation for your paragraphs. This is very similar to a typewriter.
Enter Key When working with text (words), pressing on the enter key moves the cursor down to the next line. Otherwise,
pressing the enter key will activate anything that you have selected.
Escape Key The escape key is used to cancel the current operation or can be used to exit a program.

Space Bar Pressing the space bar while the cursor is positioned within text will cause a space (one character wide) to be
placed at the position of the cursor (like on a typewriter).
Control Key The control key (Ctrl) is usually used with another key. Holding the control key in addition to another key or keys
will start a function. Later on, we will teach you some control key functions that deal with word processing.

Alt Key The alternate key (Alt), similar to the control key, and is used in combination with other keys.
Arrow Keys The four arrow keys are located on several keys to the right of the spacebar at the bottom of the keyboard. Pressing
one of these keys will cause some type of screen movement in the direction of the arrow on the key. These keys are
frequently used when correcting mistakes in documents and allow users to “go back” and fix mistakes instead of
erasing all of the work since the mistake was made.

Backspace Key Pressing the backspace key while the cursor is positioned within text will delete the character (or space)
immediately to the left of the cursor.
Delete Key Pressing the delete key while the cursor is positioned within text will delete the character (or space) immediately to
the right of the cursor.

Using the Mouse

1. Let your hand rest comfortably on top of the mouse. Most people are
right-handed and therefore, the mouse is usually on the right side of
the computer. All left-handed folks don’t have to worry because
millions of “lefties” use computers. Some left-handed
people simply move the mouse over to their left side
of the computer and use it there. Others use their
right hand and soon become ambidextrous! It’s most
important to remember to “do what’s most
comfortable for you!” For teaching purposes, we will
now continue using the right hand terminology.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
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2. Fit the palm of your hand around the mouse, with your index finger resting on the left (the
primary) mouse button and your middle finger resting on the right (the secondary) mouse
button. Let the heel of your hand rest on the desk or table.
3. As you move the mouse, the mouse pointer (the cursor on the screen) will move in the same
direction as your hand.

Mouse Techniques
Because the mouse is a critical component of the computer, we’ll examine some mouse techniques
that will be used.
The mouse can be used in many different ways. There are primarily the two mouse buttons, known
as the left and right button. The left button is primarily used. Some mouse techniques include:

Click: This is the easiest of the techniques, however it is very important that you do it properly. To
click, you press down one of the mouse buttons. As you click it, it makes a “clicking” noise. The
most important skill to learn when clicking is that it only takes a very light, short tap to click a
mouse button. Don’t click the mouse too hard since this tends to slow you down. Once you have
mastered clicking, you will be ready to move on to the next most essential practice, pointing.
Left Clicking: This is the primary “click” that you will use. This is clicking on the left mouse button.
When someone says, “click here,” that usually means to left click.
Right Clicking: This is used to change options or perform specific functions that aren’t usually
necessary for beginner.

Point: Use the mouse to move the mouse pointer so that it hovers over the top of an icon or word
on the screen. Sometimes, this is all that you need to do in order to prompt a response from the
computer (as an example, the shape of your cursor may change).
Point and click: Move the mouse pointer over the top of an item (such as an icon) on your screen
and then (while holding your hand still) gently press and release the left button on the mouse. This
technique is often used to make a selection.

Double-click: While hovering the mouse pointer over an item on the screen, quickly press the left
mouse button two times. This may take some practice but it is a very useful and important skill. If
you are having problems double clicking, it’s most likely because you’re moving the mouse slightly
when double clicking. Try to steady your hand and try it again. By double clicking, you are usually
prompting the computer to take an action on the item you selected (double clicking on an icon on
your computer desktop may open or start a program).

Click and drag: Press and hold down a mouse button (usually
the left button). As you hold down the button, move the
mouse in any direction. Click and drag is a method used when
“highlighting” or “selecting” text. To do this to text, click at
the beginning of the text that you want to select, hold down
the left mouse button, and move your mouse to the end of
where you want to highlight.

The Right Mouse Button (Uh-Oh!): What happens if you accidentally press the right mouse button?
A menu pops up— and it’s not a problem, but it can make the computer do something that you
don’t expect if you then click on the menu. For now, avoid “confusing” the computer. If you
accidentally right click and open a box, left click in an open space (see picture) and the box will
close.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
C. SOFTWARE
Software is a program and a program is sequence of an instructions written and arranged in a
meaningful manner that tell the computer what to do and the guided procedures that a computer
will follow to executee the task.

The software is the unseen that of a computer system also known as Programs or Applications.
Contrary to the hardware that can be filled and touch, the software’s are more or less an abstract in
nature. The Software refers to the programs thatt you use on your computer (like a word- word
processing program) or the programs that make your computer work (you physically cannot touch
these).
No computer will perform any meaningful operation without software. Software is the instructions,
which are necessary to make hardware do what is required.

Generally, there are three broad classifications of SOFTWARE:

1. SYSTEM SOFTWARE
2. COMPUTER PROGRAMMING TOOLS SOFTWARE and
3. APPLICATION SOFTWARE

1. SYSTEM SOFTWARE
This is a generic term referring to the computer programs used to start and run computer
systems including diverse application software and networks. System Software can group
into two, namely: Operating System Software and Utility Software
A. OPERATING SYSTEM SOFTWARE
An operating system (OS) is a system software that manages computer hardware and
software resources and provides common services for computer programs.
programs All computer
programs, excluding firmware,
firmware, require an operating system to function.

Recall that a functional computer system is made of Hardware and Software. We need at
least one software loaded on the system before we can can use it. The first of such
requirements is the Operating System Software.
Software. This is the most basic program that deals
with the manipulation of files and it includes a series of (so called) housekeeping programs.
Thus its purpose is to act as the interface
interface between the user or operator and the machine.
It interprets your command, loads and executes other program as directed.

Time-sharing operating systems schedule tasks for efficient use

of the system and may also include accounting software for cost
allocation of processor time,
time mass storage, printing, and other
resources.
The
he operating system acts as an intermediary between
programs and the computer hardware, although the application
code is usually executed directly by the hardware and
frequently makes system calls to an OS function or is
interrupted by it. Operating systems are found on many
devices that contain a computer – from cellular phones and
video game consoles to web servers and supercomputers. The
dominantnt desktop operating system is Microsoft Windows
with a market share of around 83.3%. macOS by Apple Inc. is
in second place (11.2%), and Linux is in third position (1.55%)).

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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 In the mobile (smartphone and tablet combined) sector, according to third quarter 2016
data, Android by Google is dominant with 87.5 percent and a growth rate 10.3 percent per
year, followed by iOS by Apple with 12.1 percent and a per year decrease in market share
of 5.2 percent, while other operating systems amount to just 0.3 percent. Linux is
dominant in the server and supercomputing sectors. Other specialized classes of operating
systems, such as embedded and real-time systems, exist for many applications.

TYPES OF OPERATION SYSTEM SOFTWARE

As computers have progressed and developed, so have the operating systems. Below is a basic list
of the types of operating systems and a few examples of operating systems that fall into each of the
types. Many computer operating systems will fall into more than one of the below types.

GUI - Short for Graphical User Interface, a GUI operating system contains graphics and icons and is
commonly navigated by using a computer mouse. Examples of GUI operating systems are: System
7.x, Windows 98, Windows CE

MULTI-USER - A multi-user operating system allows for multiple users to use the same computer at
the same time and different times. Examples of operating systems that would fall into this category
are: Linux, Unix, Windows 2000

MULTIPROCESSING - An operating system capable of supporting and utilizing more than one
computer processor. Examples of operating systems that would fall into this category are: Linux,
Unix, Windows XP

MULTITASKING - An operating system that is capable of allowing multiple software processes to

run at the same time. Examples of operating systems that would fall into this category are: Linux,
Unix, Windows 8

MULTITHREADING - Operating systems that allow different parts of a software program to run
concurrently. Examples of operating systems that would fall into this category are: Linux, Unix
Windows XP

GENERALLY BELOW ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF OPERATING SYSTEM SOFTWARE

S/NO EXAMPLES OF OPERATING SYSTEM SOFTWARE FOR EXAMPLES OF OPERATING SYSYTEM
STAND-ALONE COMPUTERS SOFTWARE FOR NETWORK COMPUTERS
1 PC–DOS = > Personal Computer Disk Operating System Novell Netware
2 MS-DOS = > Microsoft Disk Operating System UNIX
3 DR-DOS = Digital Research Disk Operating System ZENIX
4 CP/M => Control Program For Microcomputers WINNT => Microsoft Windows For Network
5 Windows 1.0, 2.0 3.0, 3.1, 3.11 Windows 2000 Server Edition
6 Windows ’95, ’98, Windows Me, Windows 2000 Windows 2003 Server Edition
Professional Edition, Windows XP, Windows Vista,
WINDOWS 7, WINDOWS 8 and WINDOWS 10

B. UTILITY SOFTWARE
These are software designed to help analyze, configure, optimize or maintain a computer. It
is a type of system software, used to support the computer infrastructure; by contrast with
application software, which is aimed at directly performing tasks that benefit ordinary users.
Examples of Utility Software includes: Anti-Virus, Data Recovery Software etc.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
S/N TYPES OF UTILITIES BASIC FUNCTIONS
1 ANTI-VIRUS Scan for computer viruses.
2 ARCHIVERS Output a stream or a single file when provided with a directory or a set of
files. Archive suites may include compression and encryption capabilities.
Some archive utilities have a separate un-archive utility for the reverse
operation.
3 BACKUP SOFTWARE Makes copies of all information stored on a disk and restore either the
entire disk (e.g. in an event of disk failure) or selected files (e.g. in an event
of accidental deletion).
4 CLIPBOARD MANAGERS Expand the clipboard functionality of an operating system
5 CRYPTOGRAPHIC This utility encrypts and decrypt streams and files.
6 DATA COMPRESSION This utilities output a shorter stream or a smaller file when provided with a
stream or file.
7 DATA SYNCHRONIZATION This utility establishes consistency among data from a source to a target
data storage and vice versa. There are several branches of this type of
utility:
FILE SYNCHRONIZATION utilities maintain consistency between two
sources. They may be used to create redundancy or backup copies but are
also used to help users carry their digital music, photos and video in their
mobile devices.
REVISION CONTROL utilities can recreate a coherent structure where
multiple users simultaneously modify the same file.
8 DISK CHECKERS Scan an operating hard drive and check for logical (filesystem) or physical
errors.
DISK CLEANERS find files that are unnecessary to computer operation, or take up
considerable amounts of space. Disk cleaner helps the user to decide what
to delete when their hard disk is full.
DISK COMPRESSION This utility transparently compress/uncompress the contents of a disk,
increasing the capacity of the disk.
DISK DEFRAGMENTERS Detect computer files whose contents are scattered across several locations
on the hard disk, and move the fragments to one location to increase
efficiency.
DISK PARTITION EDITORS Divide an individual drive into multiple logical drives, each with its own file
system which can be mounted by the operating system and treated as an
individual drive.
DISK SPACE ANALYZERS Provide a visualization of disk space usage by getting the size for each folder
(including sub folders) & files in folder or drive. showing the distribution of
the used space.
FILE MANAGER Provide a convenient method of performing routine data management,
email recovery and management tasks, such as deleting, renaming,
cataloging, uncataloging, moving, copying, merging, generating and
modifying folders and data sets.
HEX EDITORS Directly modify the text or data of a file. These files could be data or an
actual program.
MEMORY TESTERS Check for memory failures.
NETWORK UTILITIES Analyze the computer's network connectivity, configure network settings,
check data transfer or log events.
PACKAGE MANAGERS This are used to configure, install or keep up to date other software on a
computer.
REGISTRY CLEANERS Clean and optimize the Windows Registry by removing old registry keys that
are no longer in use.
SCREENSAVERS Were designed to prevent phosphor burn-in on CRT and plasma computer
monitors by blanking the screen or filling it with moving images or patterns
when the computer is not in use. Contemporary screensavers are used
primarily for entertainment or security.
SYSTEM MONITORS monitor resources and performance in a computer system.
SYSTEM PROFILERS provide detailed information about the software installed and hardware
attached to the computer.

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2. COMPUTER PROGRAMMING TOOLS,
Programming Tools such as COMPILERS and LINKER, are used to translate and combine
computer program source code and libraries into executable RAMs (programs that will
belong to one of the three said)

3. APPLICATION SOFTWARE
Is the general designation of computer programs for performing tasks. Application software
may be general purpose (word processing, web browsers,...) or have a specific purpose
(accounting, truck scheduling, ..) Application software contrast with system software.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 WINDOWS BASICS
The Microsoft Windows Operating System
Microsoft Windows is the operating
system that is installed on most computers.
An operating system is the software that
runs your computer and makes it think.
Application software (a.k.a. programs)
such as a word processing, spreadsheet
programs, or games runs on top of the
operating system.

The first screen you see on the monitor

when the computer starts up is called the
desktop. It is sometimes referred to as The
Desktop Environment (as a whole). This is where you will do everything—write letters, send emails,
browse the Internet, and so forth.

The Desktop Environment

The desktop environment is made up of
several parts including:
1. Desktop Icons
2. The Task Bar
3. The Clock
4. The Start Button

Desktop icons, sometimes called shortcuts,

are quick ways to access different programs. To use shortcut icons on the desktop environment to
open programs, use the mouse to point to the desktop icon that represents the program that you
want to open. Double click on the icon and the program will open or start.

The task bar is the area at the very bottom of the

computer screen. You will soon be able to
multitask and do several things at once. The task
bar is there to help you keep things organized and
become even more efficient.

There is a clock that conveniently tells you the

time.

The Start Button

The start button is located on the lower left hand
corner of your screen – on the taskbar. It’s used to access all of the programs on the computer so
you can “start” them.
To use the start menu to open programs:
1. Point and click the mouse pointer at the button at the lower left corner of the Windows
desktop (the screen that appears when you first start up your computer). This activates a
pop-up menu.
2. Slide the mouse pointer up the menu to Programs. The menu selection will be highlighted in
blue and a sub-menu will be activated.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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3. Slide the mouse pointer straight to the right onto the sub-menu.
4. Slide the pointer straight up or down to highlight the program group that you would like to
use and then click on the program you want to open.

Turning the Computer On and Off

On a desktop computer, there will be a button to turn on the computer. Similarly, there will usually
be a button on the monitor to turn on the monitor. These buttons are usually on the front of the
computer and the monitor. The computer goes through a number of internal tasks when starting
up. It may take a few minutes for it to complete these tasks. Patience, as you will learn, is used a lot
when working with a computer. After the computer stops making what almost sounds like a
grinding noise (this is normal – it’s the hard drive being accessed) and the picture on the screen
stops changing, it is probably ready for you to use!. Turning a computer off takes more practice.
You should follow the procedure below that allows the computer to properly store files. Avoid
unplugging the computer or holding down the power button, unless the computer freezes.

1. Click on the start button at the bottom

left of the screen.
2. From the start menu choose Shut
down.
3. In the dialog box that opens, select Shut
down (if it isn't already pre-selected).
4. Click on the OK button.
5. Wait until the monitor turns black and
the computer is no longer making a
humming noise. Lastly, turn off the
computer monitor by pressing the power button on the monitor.

Windows Multitasking
We will now move on to more advanced features on the computer. We suggest that you open a
program called Notepad.
To Open Notepad
1. First click start
2. Move up to Programs
3. Go to Accessories
4. Click Notepad
B The minimize button is on the left. Click on this button to cause the window to become a button on the
task bar.
C The maximize/restore button is the middle button. This button actually toggles between two different
buttons. Click on the maximize button to make the window its largest size. Click on the restore button to
return the window to its original (medium) size.
D The close button is on the right. Click on this button to close the window. This closes whatever program or
document was in the window!

Working with Windows

Each program or object that you open appears in its own window (a rectangular area on the
screen). These windows open on top of each other, so you may need to make some adjustments to
be able to see the window in which you want to work. At the top right of each window you will see
three buttons. These allow you to minimize, maximize or restore, or close the window.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
How to switch between applications using the minimize feature and the Taskbar.
You can open more than one A
B
program at a time on your C
E D
computer. This is called F
multitasking. There is a simple and A – Title Bar G
B – Minimize
easy way to organize all the tasks
C – Restore / Maximize
(or all of the programs that are J
D – Close / Alt + F4
running). There are basically four E – Control Icon / Menu
different buttons that you’ll use to F – Menu Bar
organize tasks. The first button is G – Standard Toolbar H
the programs’ buttons is on the H – Task Pane
taskbar. The Taskbar, again, is all I – Status Bar
the way at the bottom of your J – Vertical Scroll Bar
screen. It usually is grey, but it can
I
also be blue, green, red, and almost
any other color you want it to be.

Notice how the “Calculator” program is in focus. You can tell because it has a blue title bar while
the “Notepad” program is unfocused because it is grayish. Also, in the taskbar, the program in focus
always has its button pressed inward.
MULTITASKING EXERCISE
1. First open a program (try notepad). Notice how the name of the program is displayed in a
button on the taskbar. (This is true for most programs, however certain programs
(commonly intense full-screen games) will take up the entire screen and hide the taskbar.
2. Next press the minimize button at the top. See how the program disappears on your screen,
but its button with its name is still in the taskbar.
3. Now open another program (try calculator). Minimize that program also. See how it also is
still in the Taskbar. The Taskbar always shows you what you have opened, even if you have
minimized it and it is no longer on the screen. You can open as many programs as you want.
To make the program reappear, left click its name and it will pop up.
4. Try clicking on the other program on the taskbar. See how that program comes up too (probably
over the other one). Now click on the other program’s window. It will come to the front. When you
are done with a task/program, just simply click on the “X” button and it will close.

CREATING AND NAMING FOLDERS

In order to organize your hard disk, you will occasionally want to create a new folder. Perhaps your
company gains a new client and work will need to be created under that client’s name, or your
accounts folder has to be divided into new subfolders for each month of the year.

RENAMING AND DELETING FOLDERS

When you no longer need a folder or wish to rename it, it is possible to delete the folder and its
content or move and rename it.

If you accidentally delete a folder, you can retrieve its content by opening the Recycle Bin on your
Desktop and Dragging the files back to any folder in the explorer window.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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METHOD
To create, rename or delete a folder, follow the procedures below:
S/N CREATING A FOLDER RENAMING A FOLDER DELETING A FOLDER
1 In the ALL FOLDERS WINDOW, From the CONTENTS WINDOW, From the CONTENT WINDOW,
choose the DRIVER OR FOLDER in select the FOLDER to be renamed select the FOLDER(S) you want to
which you want to create the NEW delete
FOLDER
2 Choose FILES, NEW, FOLDER. From the FILEMENU, Choose From the FILEMENU, choose
RENAME DELETE Or Press DELETE KEY
3 Type the new FOLDER NAME Type the new FOLDER NAME Choose either YES / NO BUTTON
4 Press ENTER Press Enter

MOVING AND COPYING FOLDERS

When managing your computer it may be sometimes necessary to move or copy folders or
subfolders to new folders or drives. In windows explorer you can use several methods, either use
the menu method, shortcut key, shortcut icon or use the mouse to drag and drop files to their new
location.

To enhance copying and moving files, folders, and objects, windows allow multiple selections of
objects through sequential or non-sequential selection.

SEQUENTIAL SELECTION – this is the process of selecting icons/objects serially in order of their
arrangement. This can be achieved by holding down the shift key and clicking on the first file on the
list, then the last file, all files in-between are now selected.

NON-SEQUENTIAL SELECTION – this is the process of selecting icons/objects randomly without

taking cognizance to their arrangement. This can be achieved by holding down the Ctrl key and
clicking on the file(s) to be selected.

METHOD
COPYING FOLDERS
S/N MENU METHODS SHORTCUT KEY METHOD SHORTCUT ICON METHOD MOUSE TO DRAG AND
DROP
1. Load Windows Explorer as Load Windows Explorer as Load Windows Explorer Load Windows Explorer
usual as as
2. From the left pane Expand From the left pane Expand From the left pane From the left pane
the folder that contain the the folder that contain the Expand the folder that Expand the folder that
object/subfolder to be object/subfolder to be contain the contain the
copied copied object/subfolder to be object/subfolder to be
copied copied
3. From the right pane of From the right pane of From the right pane of From the right pane of
Explorer, select the folder/ Explorer, select the Explorer, select the Explorer, select the
object to be moved folder/ object to be folder/ object to be folder/ object to be
moved moved moved
4. Choose edit menu and click Press Ctr + X Click CUT Button on the Drag the folder to be
CUT /COPY standard Toolbar moved to the desires
destination in the left
pane.
5. From the left pane, select From the left pane, select From the left pane, select
the folder that will contain the folder that will the folder that will
the moved folder contain the moved folder contain the moved folder
6. Choose Edit menu and click Press ctrl + V Click paste Button on the
paste standard toolbar

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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CREATING AND NAMING FILES
Files will usually be created within the program that you are currently using, for example when
working in Excel you will specify a file name when you have finished creating it. Occasionally
though, you may wish to create files within Explorers then move or copy information from file into
them.

METHOD
To create, rename or delete a FILE, follow the procedures below:
S/N CREATING A FILE RENAMING A FILE DELETING A FILE
1 In the All folder window, choose the From the CONTENTS WINDOW, select From the CONTENT
DRIVE OR FOLDER in which you want the FILE to be renamed WINDOW, select the FILE(S)
to create the new file. you want to delete
2 From the FILEMENU, Choose NEW, From the FILEMENU, Choose RENAME From the FILEMENU, choose
and then select the correct document DELETE Or Press DELETE KEY
type from the list e.g. Text Document,
PowerPoint Document, Excel
Document etc.
3 Type the new FILENAME. Type the new FILE NAME Choose either YES / NO
BUTTON
4 Press Enter Press Enter

DELETING FILE
You should periodically delete unwanted files on your drives to free up space. You delete files in
explorer the same way as you delete folders. to delete multiple files, use CTRL KEY to select NON
SEQUENTIAL FILES and SHIFT KEY to SELECT SEQUENTIAL FILES.

USING UNDO
Explorer has an Undo Command. You use the undo command to reverse your most recent file
management action, such as copying, moving, deleting, and renaming files. Undo will reverse only a
certain number of actions, so if you make an error, choose UNDO immediately.

METHOD
TO USE UNDO TO REVERSE THE PREVIOUSE FILE OPERATION
S/N PROCEDURES
1 From the EDIT MENU, choose UNDO OR
2 Press CTRL + Z

PRINTING
PRINTING FOLDER
The printer’s folder is designed to manage all printing activities. It is
used to control the printer, pause and resume print jobs, as well as
add, and configure new printers.

TO PRINT DOCUMENT WITHIN WINDOWS EXPLORER

METHOD
S/N PROCEDURES
1 Check if the Printer is connected to the Computer and its DRIVERS installed for
communication
2 Put on the Printer
3 Choose START, PROGRAMS, ACCESSORIES, WINDOWS EXPLORER
4 From the FILE MENU, choose PRINT

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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USING THE CONTROL PANEL
The control panel is a program which can be used to control the windows environment. The control
panel contains a number of icons. Ten of these icons are available to all computers in all modes, the
reminder appears when specific software or hardware is loaded, for example the modems icon
appears when the computer is networked.

TO OPEN CONTROL PANEL

METHOD
S/N PROCEDURES
1. Choose START, SETTINGS / CONTROL PANEL
2. From the Task Pane on the left, Choose SWITCH TO CATEGORY VIEW
3. ICONS are displayed

DISPLAY PROPERTIES
The Display Properties allows users to customize the background, colors, screen savers, appearance
of the window text and the desktop areas.

THEME
A Theme is a background Plus, that is designed to affect the overall look of your DESKTOP, including
the background, screen saver, icons, windows, mouse pointers, and sounds.

METHOD
To change a Theme
S/N PROCEDURE
1. Choose, START, SETTINGS / CONTROL PANEL
2. From the Dialogue Box, Double Click on the DISPLAY ICON
3. To set a theme, Choose the THEME TAB
4 Under Theme, Click a new THEME
5 Choose APPLY, OK BUTTON
DESKTOP
A DESKTOP is designed to specifically alter the look of your background only.
METHOD
To change a Desktop
S/N PROCEDURE
1. Choose, START, SETTINGS / CONTROL PANEL
2. From the Dialogue Box, Double Click on the DISPLAY ICON
3. To set a Desktop, Choose the DESKTOP TAB
4 Under BACKGROUND, Click a PICTURE
5 Under POSITION, Click either CENTER, TILES, STRETCH
6 Under COLOR, Click a COLOR. The color fills the space not used by a picture.
7 Choose APPLY, OK BUTTON
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SCREEN SAVER
A Screen Saver displays moving images that prevent unauthorized users from reading the messages
on the screen while in a state of idleness. The Screen saver starts automatically if the computer is
idle for a specified amount of time.
METHOD
To set a SCREEN SAVER
S/N PROCEDURE
1. Choose, START, SETTINGS / CONTROL PANEL
2. From the Dialogue Box, Double Click on the DISPLAY ICON
3. To set a Screen Saver, Choose the SCREEN SAVER TAB
4 Under SCREEN SAVER, Click a PICTURE
5 Under WAIT, Specify the IDLE TIME e.g. 1min or 2mins or more
6 Choose the PREVIEW BUTTON to preview the screen saver
7 If the preview picture does not suit you, repeat step 5 & 6
8 Choose APPLY, OK BUTTON

DATE/TIME
This option changes the system DATE & TIME, it is important that these are correct as they are
reflected in the calendar and clock. They are also used when the system date is inserted in a
program.

METHOD
To change the system DATE/TIME
S/N PROCEDURE
1. Choose, START, CONTROL PANEL
2. From the Dialogue Box, Double Click on the DATE / TIME ICON
3. To set the Date & Time, Choose the DATE/TIME TAB
4 Under DATE, Set the MONTH and YEAR as appropriate
5 Under TIME, Set the TIME in HOUR, MINUTES, and SECONDS as appropriate
6 Choose APPLY, OK BUTTON

THE MOUSE
With the Mouse icon, it is possible to change the mouse function, such as changing the left and
right items button to suit left and right handed user.
METHOD
To change the mouse buttons
S/N PROCEDURE
1. Choose START, CONTROL PANEL
2. From the Dialogue Box, Double Click on the MOUSE ICON
3. Under BUTTON CONFIGURATION, Choose the CHECK BOX for LEFT / RIGHT Button configuration
4. Under DOUBLE CLICK SPEED, Drag to either SLOW / FAST
5 Choose APPLY, OK BUTTON

RECYCLE BIN
The RECYCLE BIN ICON sits on your desktop. Any FILE, PROGRAM, or SHORTCUT
you delete is actually moved to the Recycle Bin. When you delete a folder, it is
erased and move its contents to the Recycle Bin.

This eliminates the danger of accidentally erasing something you need. However,
your Recycle Bin should be emptied frequently, as its contents are still taking up space on your
computer’s hardware.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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DELETING OBJECT DIRECTLY INTO THE RECYCLE BIN
When you delete an object in “My Computer” or Window Explorer, it is automatically moved into
the Recycle Bin. In addition, you can delete something by dragging its icon over to the Recycle Bin.
The Recycle Bin Icon is shown below:

METHOD
To delete an object directly into the RECYCLE BIN
S/N PROCEDURES
1. Select the object to be DELETED
2. Drag the object over the recycle bin icon and release the mouse bottom

RECOVERING A DELETED OBJECT

Suppose that you really didn’t want to delete the shortcut to the Data folder. Recovering an Object
from the Recycle Bin can be achieved by dragging it back to the location where you would like it to
be.
Like other windows, the recycle Bin can be seen in different views. The details view allows you to
see the original location of the file, as well as the date deleted and type, as shown below. The size
of the file can also be displayed.

METHOD
To RECOVER a deleted object
S/N PROCEDURES
1. Double click the Recycle Bin icon
2. Select the deleted item to RECOVERED
3. Drag the item to the desired location OR
4. From the EDIT MENU, choose UNDO DELETE,
immediately after a deletion, to restore it to its
previous location.

EMPTYING THE RECYCLE BIN

In time, the contents of your Recycle Bin will start to use up a significant amount of space on your
hard drive. To make sure that deleted items do not accumulate, you may wish to empty the Recycle
Bin each day or even at end of each week. If you are not sure whether you want to permanently
delete some of the items in the Recycle Bin, you can delete selectively.

METHOD
To DELETE items from the RECYCLE BIN
S/N PROCEDURES
1. Double click to open the RECYCLE BIN ICON
2. Select the ITEM (S) to be DELETED
3. Press DELETE KEY
4. Choose YES

TO EMPTY ALL OF THE CONTENTS OF THE RECYCLE BIN

METHOD
To empty the RECYCLE BIN
S/N PROCEDURES
1. Double click to open the RECYCLE BIN ICON
2. From the FILEMENU, Choose Empty Recycle Bin
3. Choose YES

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 APPLICATION SOFTWARE
These are software that enables users to carry out certain kind of task. They usually consist of a set
program with associated documentation, which are designed to solve a particular type of problem
or a variety of similar problems.
However, the Application Software is broadly segmented into two distinct categories namely:

1. CUSTOMIZED SOFTWARE / PACKAGE

These are set of programs tailored toward achieving specific requirement of a given organization. It
is also called “IN HOUSE” program. Examples of such program include payroll, stock control, and
Accounting Program etc.

2. STANDARD SOFTWARE / PACKAGE

These are application programs designed, which are suitable for specific industrial requirement.
They can be said to be application programs and their associated documentation designed to be
used for a variety of similar problems. A package is said to be standard if it has provided most or
all-necessary tools in achieving the requirement for a specialized area of need.
Below are few examples of standard application packages that are common in the market:
S/NO APPLICATION PACKAGES SAMPLES
1 MS-WORD, Corel WordPerfect, AmiPro, Word Star, Lotus Write,
WORD PROCESSING SOFTWARE
Super Write, Word Pad, MultiMate
2 Corel Draw, MS-Power Point, MS-Publisher, Page Maker,
DESKTOP PUBLISHING SOFTWARE
Jetsetter, Photo Shop, Paint, Ventura
3 SPREAD SHEET SOFTWARE MS-Excel, Lotus 1-2-3, Supercalc Symphony, Quattropro
4 Dbase, FoxBASE, FoxPro, MS-Access, Visual Basic, Oracle,
DATABASE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE
Clipper, Java, Phython
5 COMMUNICATION SOFTWARE Data Fax, AOL, Phone Dialer, Internet Explorer
6 CAD - GRAPHIC SOFTWARE Harvard Graphic, AutoCAD, Fast Cad, ArchyCad,

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 WORD PROCESSING APPLICATION SOFTWARE
These are software that enables users to Typeset, edit, format and print documents out as
required. The following are samples of word processing software, they include:
1. Microsoft Word
2. Corel WordPerfect
3. WordPad
4. AmiPro
5. Word Star
6. MultiMate
7. Super Write
8. Lotus Write
UNDERSTANDING MICROSOFT OFFICE
Microsoft Office is a very powerful and sophisticated integrated package. It is a family of programs
consisting of powerful packages namely:
1. Microsoft Word for Word Processing
2. Microsoft Power Point for Desktop Publishing and Presentation
3. Microsoft Excel for Spreadsheet
4. Microsoft Access for Database Management Software
5. Microsoft Publisher for Graphics Software
6. Internet Explorer for Communication Software
7. FrontPage for Website Design
8. Microsoft Outlook for Communication Software

The integration of Microsoft Office Suite started from 1995 when MS – Windows 95 was released
by Microsoft Corporation so as to run parallel with its application software, hence MICROSOFT
OFFICE SUITE was released starting with: Office 95, 97, 2000, XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013
respectively.

MICROSOFT WORD 2007

INTRODUCTION
MICROSOFT WORD 2007 is a Word Processor, i.e. a device that record typed words, diagram and
display it on a visual Display unit so that they can be edited, corrected and automatically printed
out. Microsoft word for windows uses the ease and power of graphical computing of windows with
its great icon – driven operating system that has swept the PC world. This Graphical User Interface
gives you more control of your system, and works more effortlessly as compatible with any DOS
application with no hard to remember commands or rigid syntax.

Working with graphics is easy. Editing tools are readily available for complete document
management right from the File Open dialogue box, quickly copy, move, rename, delete or change
the attributes of your files. Word for windows is highly automated and easy to use. Among the
various word processor programs, Microsoft words for windows stands above others with its
elegance, flexibility, cohesiveness and intelligent interface. It does more to the job of creating,
editing and sharing documents than any of its competitors. It lucid forms, menus, flexible
automated correction and formatting features makes it a pleasure to use.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
The Fundamentals
The OFFICE BUTTON, located in
the upper left-hand corner of the
program window, replaces the
File menu found in previous
versions of Microsoft Word. The
Office Button menu contains
basic file management
commands, including New, Open,
Save, Print and Close.

The Word Environment

Title Bar

The title bar is the blue bar at the very top of the window. The title bar indicates which Microsoft
program is being used and title of the current document. In the example above you can see that the
title of the document is “Word Processing” and the program being used is Microsoft Word.

Microsoft Office Button

The Microsoft Office Button is located in the upper left corner of your screen. The button holds
many of the same commands found under the file menu in previous versions of Word. Click on it to
see commands for New, Open, Print, Save, etc.

Quick Access Toolbar

The Quick Access Toolbar is a place reserved for the commands you use most often. Save, undo and
Redo are included by default but additional commands can be added simply by right clicking the
appropriate icon and selecting “Add to Quick Access Toolbar.”

Ribbons
Ribbons hold all the commands used to format and manipulate text in 2007. There are eight main
ribbons that can be accessed by clicking the appropriate label. Additonal ribbons will appear when
an object requiring their use is clicked on. For example when you click on a picture, the picture
ribbon will appear. Word 2007 does not allow the user to modify the ribbons but frequently used
commands can be added to the quick Access Toolbar.

Groups
Groups are collections of commands that are available on the Ribbon tab you have selected. Groups
change depending upon which tab you have selected on the ribbon. For example the Clipboard
group above contains the paste, cut, copy and format painter commands.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
Text Area
The text area of your document is where your typing will go. Although the text area is an invisible
box, you can tell if you are in the text area by the way your mouse pointer looks while you move it.
When you have your mouse pointer in the text area you’re pointer will look like an I-bar. See
Appendix A for a picture of the text area.

Selection Bar
In Word 2007 there is a special area of the page that will help you easily select pieces of text. This
area is called the selection bar and is located in the left margin of the page. You can tell if you are in
the selection bar by the way your mouse pointer appears, if it looks like a white arrow, you are in
the selection bar. See Appendix A for a picture of the Selection Bar.

Insertion Point
The insertion point is the place on the page where your text or picture will be inserted. You choose
the insertion point by placing your mouse pointer somewhere in the text area and clicking. A small
blinking line (cursor) will appear.

Horizontal and Vertical Scroll Bar

The horizontal scroll bar is located near the bottom of your page; the vertical scrollbar is on the
right. The scrollbars allow you to quickly move up and down and left and right within your
document. See Appendix A for a picture of the Scroll bars.

Status Bar
The status bar is found near the bottom of your Word 2007 screen; it provides useful information
and can also serve as a kind of GPS for your document. By default the status bar contains the page
number and word count of a document. However more information can be added by right clicking
the bar. View buttons and zoom are also found on the Stats Bar

View Buttons
The view buttons are located on the status bar and allow a user to see a document in different
ways. It is important to remember that even though your document may appear different, nothing
has changed. A document in print layout view will print exactly the same way it will in reading
layout view. See the table below for a description of each view. Print Layout: allows you to see
exactly how text will look on the printed page.

Full Screen Reading: allows the user to maximize the space available for reading or commenting on
the document
Web Layout: view the document as it would look as a web page

Outline: allows you to look at the structure of a document and to move, copy, and reorganize text
by dragging headings.

Draft: View the document as a draft to quickly edit text. Certain elements of the document such as
headers and footers will not be visible in this view
Get Help Using Word
Word 2007 has a built in help feature that is able to provide answers and step-by-step instructions
to questions or problems you may be experiencing. The help feature can be accessed by pushing
the help icon in the upper right corner of the screen.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
Help Window
The help window lists a variety of topics that users commonly need help with. Click on the
appropriate heading to get a list of subtopics related to the main heading. Click the desired topic to
receive information and instructions on completing the task described.
If none of the topics provided seem to fit your need, a search field is provided at the top of the
window. Simply type in a topic with which you need help and a list of possible solutions will be
provided.
Enter Text
Formatting Marks
When typing in word there are many formatting marks that are present and you never even notice.
Although items such as tabs, spaces and page breaks appear to be invisible, they really have special
marks that serve as place holders for the empty space. To see the invisible marks press the show
hide button on the formatting toolbar.

Default Typing Options

Word 2007 has many built in features that will help you as you type. Many of these things happen
automatically without you noticing.
1. AutoCorrect fixes common typographical errors, misspelled words and incorrect
capitalization.
2. Smart Tags are represented by a lightning bolt button. They are usually displayed when
Word does something automatically or wants to help you in some way. If you click on the
smart tag a list of options relating to the action preformed will appear.
3. Spelling and Grammar mistakes are caught as you type. Spelling errors are indicated using a
red wavy line beneath the misspelled word. Grammar errors are signified with a green wavy
line.
4. AutoText inserts common or frequently used text automatically. For example if you type T-
U-E-S, Word guesses that you are going to type Tuesday. When the yellow auto text box
shows up, press enter and Word will finish typing the rest of the word for you.

CREATING A NEW DOCUMENT USING BLANK DOCUMENT

1. From the OFFICE BUTTO, Choose NEW OR Press CTRL + N
2. From the TASK PANE on the far right, Under NEW, Choose BLANK DOCUMENT,
3. Move the Cursor to where you want to start typing your document and type accordingly, for
example type the following:

The Manager
Royal Computer Academy

4. Words give the new document a temporary / propose name called (Document 1, Document
2, and Document 3) until you save it with a unique name of your choice.
5. To Save the Document, From the OFFICE BUTTO, Choose SAVE AS
6. Type a File Name for the Document e.g. EXERCISE100

EDITING DOCUMENT
Correcting typing mistakes – position the cursor at the point of the mistake and delete backward or
forward using backspace or delete button. You can then retype the correct word.

TO CANCEL THE LAST ACTION PERFORMED

1. From the HOME MENU, Choose UNDO OR Press CRTL + Z

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
OPENING DOCUMENT AND SAVING EXISTING DOCUMENT
METHOD
TO OPEN AN EXISTING DOCUMENT
1. Either click the OPEN BUTTON from the OFFICE BUTTON OR Press CTRL + O
2. In the FILE NAME BOX, type or select the name of the document you want to open.
3. If the File to be Open is not in current drive (MY DOCUMENT), select the drive or directory
or type complete path and filename in the file name box.
4. Choose OPEN / OK BUTTON

SAVING DOCUMENT
(a). USING SAVE AS COMMAND
Use the SAVE AS Command to save a File for the first time or to make a copy from an existing
document thereby given the document a new filename; hence the old and the new document all
exist in the My Document Folder.
METHOD
1. From Either click the SAVE AS BUTTON from the OFFICE BUTTON OR Pres F12
2. To save on the current directory, type the file name in the filename box. To save on the
different directory, select the drive name
3. Choose SAVE / OK BUTTON
(b) SAVING AN EXITING
Click the SAVE BUTTON on the QUICK ACCESS TOOLBAR or choose SAVE from OFFICE
BUTTON or Press CTRL + S

(c). TO RENAME AN EXITING FILE INTO ANOTHER NAME

METHOD
1. From the FILE MENU, Choose Save As
2. In the Save As Dialog Box, Under filename Text Box, type the New Filename
3. Choose the SAVE OK BUTTON

COPYING, CUTTING AND PASTING OF TEXT

(A). SELECTING TEXT AND GRAPHICS
You can select Text or Graphics by using the MOUSE or SHORTCUT KEYS.

I) TO SELECT TEXT OR GRAPHICS USING SHORTCUT KEYS:

Move your cursor to the beginning OR the end of the required text/graphics, then press
down the shift key and any of the four arrow ( ) keys to select UPWARDS,
DOWNWARDS, RIGHTWARDS OR LEFTWARDS of the text or the graphics.
NOTE
The Arrow key to be pressed depends on the cursor position

II) TO SELECT TEXT OR GRAPHICS BY USING THE MOUSE

TO SELECT DO THIS
Any amount of text Drag over the text
A word Double – click the word
A graphic Click the graphic
A line of text Move the pointer to the left of the line until it changes to a right-pointing Arrow, and then click

COPYING/MOVING TEXT
You can move or copy text and graphics within a document, between document, or between
applications. If a particular line of text, paragraph or document is to be typed severally, just copy
such line or paragraph or document and paste it at the required position.
Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS
Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 METHOD
S/NO COPYING MOVING
1 Select Text to be Copied Select Text to be MOVE /CUT
2 Choose COPY from the HOME MENU OR click Choose CUT from the HOME MENU or click CUT
COPY button from the standard toolbar OR press button from the standard toolbar or press CTRL + X
CTRL + C
3 Position cursor where text is to be pasted Position cursor where text is to be pasted
4 Choose PASTE from the HOME MENU OR Press Choose PASTE from the HOME MENU OR Press CRTL
CTRL + V +V

DELETING TEXT
a) If there is a line you have typed and you no longer want it; then do the following:
1) Select text to be deleted by highlighting
2) Click the CUT BUTTON from the CLIPBOARD TOOLBAR, or press CTRL + X

b) TO USE KEYBOARD IN DELETING TEXT, USE ANY OF THE OPTIONS BELOW

- Backspace = Delete characters to the left of insertion point
- Del = Deletes characters to the right of insertion point
- CTRL + Backspace = Delete a word to the left of insertion point
- CTRL + Del = Delete words to the right of insertion point.

CHANGE CASE
You have typed a text, you want to change the lettering to UPPER CASE or lower cases, MS-Word
have the facility to affect changes. You have five (5) options. You may want to correct text to: -
- UPPER CASE
- lower case
- Sentence case (the first letter of a sentence becomes a capital letter
- Title Case (the letter of each word becomes capital)
- tOGGLE cASE

METHOD
1. Select the Text to be converted
2. From the HOME MENU, Under FONT Choose CHANGE CASE
3. From the Menu that appears, Choose the required Option e.g lower case

TO SEARCH FOR WORD AND REPLACE

You can search for the replace text; specific formatting and special items such as paragraph marks
(For example, replace “make’ with “build” as well as “made” with “built”). To fine-tune search, use
wildcards. (For example, search for “s?t” to find “sat” or “set” or “sot” etc)
TO FIND CHARACTER OR TEXT
1. From the HOME MENU, Under EDITING, Choose FIND OR Press CTRL + F
2. In the FIND WHAT BOX, type or insert the information you want to find
3. Click the MORE / LESS BUTTON to expand Dialogue Box
3. Under Search Option, sets the direction of the search preferably choose All.
4. Click the button, find next to locate for the information you want to find
5. Complete the various options in the dialogue box as desire.

TO FIND CHARACTER / TEXT AND REPLACE

1. From the HOME MENU, Under EDITING, Choose REPLACE OR Press CTRL + H
2. In the FIND WHAT BOX, type, or inset the information you want to find
3. In the REPLACE WITH BOX, type or insert the information you want in the document
4. Click the MORE / LESS BUTTON to expand Dialogue Box

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
5. In the SEARCH OPTION, set the direction of the search. Preferably Choose ALL.
6. Click the FIND NEXT BUTTON to locate for the information you want to find
7. Click the REPLACE BUTTON to replace the found character / text or select REPLACE ALL
BUTTON to replace all matching character or text.

MARGIN
To set Margins – If the default settings are not those you generally use (Top and Button, 1 inch, Left
and Right, 1.25inches), you can change the default settings.
1. Select the text on the page(s) whose margins you want to change
2. From the PAGE LAYOUT MENU, Under PAGE SETUP, Select the MARGIN TAB
3. To change the size of the margins, type or select the measurement for the margin you want
to adjust in the TOP, BUTTON, LEFT or RIGHT BOX
4. To Display Document on PORTRAIT / LANDSCAPE, Choose PORTRAIT / LANDSCAPE Under
ORIENTATION

LINE SPACING
METHOD
1. Select the text to be spaced OR Place the insertion point where you want to apply the new
line spacing
2. From the HOME MENU, Under PARAGRAPH, Click on the LINE SPACING BOX and select the
desired spacing
OR
1. Select the TEXT to be spaced
2. Press the required line spacing shortcut key as indicated below:

The Big Brown Fox The Big Brown Fox The Big Brown Fox
Jumped Over The Jumped Over The Jumped Over The
Lazy Dog. Whooo! Lazy Dog. Whooo! Lazy Dog. Whooo!
The Big Brown Fox The Big Brown Fox The Big Brown Fox
Jumped Dog. Jumped Dog. Jumped Dog.
Whooo Whooo Whooo

Single Space Ctrl+ 1 1.5 Space Ctrl+ 5 Double Space Ctrl+ 2

TEXT JUSTIFICATION
Word is preset to align text to the left thus producing a ragged right margin. You can align your text
as desire by:
1. Selecting the TEXT you want to align
2. From the HOME MENU, Under PARAGRAPH, Click on the Alignment box, choose either
LEFT, CENTER, RIGHT OR JUSTIFIED
OR
1. Select the TEXT to be aligned
2. Press the required alignment shortcut key as indicated below:
The Big The Big The Big The Big
Brown Fox Brown Fox Brown Fox Brown Fox
Jumped Over Jumped Over Jumped Over Jumped
The Lazy The Lazy The Lazy Over The
Dog. Whooo! Dog. Whooo! Dog. Whooo! Lazy Dog.
The Big The Whooo!
Align Left CTRL + L Align Right CTRL + R Align Center CTRL + E Justify CTRL + J

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
INDENTATION
1. Select the PARAGRAPH you want to INDENT
2. From the HOME MENU, Under PARAGRAPH, Click on either DECREASE / INCREASE INDENT
Button

PAGE NUMBERING
You can number pages in a document by INSERTING PAGE NUMBER as part of FOOTER OR
HEADER.

METHOD
To INSERT, FORMAT and POSITION PAGE NUMBERS within a HEADER or FOOTER, follow the
procedure below:
1. From the INSERT MENU, Under HEADER & FOOTER, Choose PAGE NUMBER
2. From the Menu that appears on the screen, choose Specify whether MS - Word should print
the page number at the BOTTOM of the PAGES (FOOTER) or at the TOP of the PAGES
(HEADER).
3. From the DIALOGUE BOX that appears on the screen under ALIGNMENT, Specify weather
word should print the page number at the LEFT, CENTRE, RIGHT
4. To display PAGE NUMBER on the FIRST PAGE, activate the CHECK BOX.
5. Click the FORMAT PAGE NUMBERS BUTTON and select the NUMBER FORMAT for page
number (e.g. 1, 2, 3, OR A, B, C, I, II, III)
6. To start numbering from a specific Number, type the page number e.g. 5 under START AT
6. Click the OK BUTTON twice

HOW TO REMOVE THE PAGE NUMBERING

1. Place the insertion point on the page number and double click to open the Header / Footer
2. Select the PAGE NUMBER by clicking on it; then press DELETE on your KEYBOARD
3. Choose CLOSE from the HEADER / FOOTER TOOLBAR

HEADER / FOOTER
Add or change text that word repeats at the TOP OF EVERY PAGE (HEADER) or the BUTTON OF
EVERY PAGE (FOOTER) in a section or an entire document.

When you choose this command, word displays the HEADER AND FOOTER TOOLBAR. Use the
toolbar to quickly insert the current time, current date, page number, to move between the
headers and footers in the document; and to display or hide the document text.

METHOD
To Insert HEADER and FOOTER
1. From the INSERT MENU, Under HEADER & FOOTER, Choose HEADER OR FOOTER
2. Type your HEADER TEXT OR click on the SWITCH BETWEEN HEADER AND FOOTER BUTTON
to type your FOOTER TEXT
3. Choose CLOSE to return to document

GOTO COMMAND
1. From HOME MENU, Under EDITING, Choose FIND, Click on GOTO Tab or Press CTRL + G
2. Under ENTER PAGE NUMBER, type the PAGE NUMBER to GOTO
3. Click on either NEXT / PREVIOUS BUTTON

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
PROTECTING DOCUMENT
PROTECTING DOCUMENT WITH PASSWORD
To prevent other users from opening and changing a document, you can protect it with a password.
If you protect a document with a password you must provide the password each time you want to
open the document. You cannot open a password - protected document without the password.

METHOD
To protect a document with a password
1. Open the DOCUMENT you want to protect with password
2. From the OFFICE BUTTON, choose SAVE AS or Press F12
3. From the Dialog Box, Choose TOOLS, Choose GENERAL OPTIONS
4. From the dialog box, under PASSWORD TO OPEN, type the password to open document as
read only
5. Under PASSWORD TO MODIFY, type password to make modification to document.

A password can contain up to 15 characters and include letters, numbers, symbols and
space. As you type the password, MS-WORD displays ASTERISKS (****) for each character
you type.

6. When MS-WORD prompts you to confirm the password, retype it and then choose the OK
button.
Passwords are case – sensitive, so the combination of characters, including capitalization
must match.

7. To SAVE THE DOCUMENT, choose the SAVE BUTTON

Make sure you write down the document password exactly the way it was typed. You will
need to retype it; the next time you open the document.

TO VERIFY WHETHER THE DOCUMENT IS PROTECTED OR NOT

METHOD
1. From the OFFICE BUTTON, choose CLOSE
2. In an attempt to open the protected document, it will asks for the password

DELETING PASSWORD
METHOD
1. Open the documents whose password you want to change
2. From the OFFICE BUTTON, Choose SAVE AS
3. From the dialog box, choose the TOOLS, GENERAL OPTIONS
4. From the dialog box, under PASSWORD TO OPEN, delete the password to open
5. Under PASSWORD TO MODIFY, delete the password to modify
6. To SAVE THE DOCUMENT, choose the SAVE BUTTON

INSERTING TABLE DOCUMENT

TO INSERT TABLE
To quickly create a table, CLICK THE INSERT TABLE button on the INSERT TABLE TOOLBAR, and drag
over the grid to select the number of rows and columns you want. You can have up to 31 columns
in a file.
OR
1. From the INSERT MENU, Under TABLES, Choose INSERT TABLE, from the menu that appears
2. From the dialog Box that appears, type the numbers of COLUMNS and ROWS as required
3. Choose the OK BUTTON

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
FORMATTING AND EDITING TABLE
To understand how to manipulate the TABLE OPERATION, the following sub-section needs to be
covered:
A HOW TO INCREASE THE ROW HEIGHT IN A TABLE
1. Place the cursor inside the row height to be increased
2. Place the insertion point below the row height to be increased
3. Hold down the left button mouse on the grid and drag outward to increase or drag inward
to decrease row height
B HOW TO INCREASE THE COLUMN WIDTH IN A TABLE
1. Place the cursor inside the column width to be increased
2. Place the insertion point inside the column width to be increased
3. Hold down the left button mouse on the grid and drag outward to increase or drag inward
to decrease column width
C. HOW TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF ROWS IN A TABLE
1. Place the cursor inside the LAST ROW OF THE LAST COLUMN of the table
2. Press the TAB KEY on the keyboard
3. For more ROWS, hold down the TAB KEY CONTINUOUSLY
D. HOW TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF COLUMNS IN A TABLE
1. Place the cursor inside any of the column
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under Rows & Columns, Choose INSERT RIGHT OR INSERT LEFT
Notice how the column increase either to the left or right
E. HOW TO DELETE UNWANTED ROW(S) IN A TABLE
1. Place the cursor inside the row to be deleted or select the rows to be deleted
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under Rows & Columns, choose DELETE, choose ROW
F. HOW TO DELETE UNWANTED COLUMN(S) IN A TBLE
1. Place the cursor inside the column to be deleted or select the columns to be deleted
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under Rows & Columns choose DELETE, choose COLUMN
G. HOW TO MERGE CELL(S) TOGETHER IN A TABLE
1. Select the cell(s) to be merged together
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under Merge, choose MERGE CELLS
H. HOW TO SPLIT A CEL IN A TABLE
1. Place the cursor INSIDE THE CELL TO BE SPLIT
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under Merge, choose SPLIT CELL
3. From the displayed dialog box, type in the number of row(s) and column(s) you want to split
cell into.
I. HOW TO SPLIT A TABLE INTO TWO (2)
1. Place the cursor inside the row from where you want to split the table
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under Merge, choose SPLIT TABLE
J. HOW TO FILL A CELL/TABLE WITH A COLOR
1. Place the cursor inside the cell to be filled with color
2. Right Mouse Click on the Cell, From the MENU that appears, choose BORDERS AND
SHADING
3. From the displayed dialog box, choose SHADING TAB
4. Under FILL, choose the required COLOR e.g. RED
5. Under APPLY TO, choose either CELL or TABLE
6. Choose the OK BUTTON
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K. HOW TO DISTRIBUTE A ROW HEIGHT EVENLY
1. Select the Row(s) to distributed evenly
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under Cell Size, chooses DISTRIBUTE ROWS / COLUMNS EVENLY
M. HOW TO CALCULATE/USE FORMULA IN A TABLE USING A FUNCTION
1. Place the cursor inside the row where the total is to be made
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under Data, Choose FORMULA
3. Modify the formula as appropriate
4. Choose the Ok Button

FORMATTING DOCUMENT
TEXTAPPEARANCE
When you change the appearance of text by centering it or making it bold, italic, underlining, size
font and font color etc. then what you are doing is called FORMATTING.

On the formatting toolbar, you can click a button to apply BOLD, ITALIC: UNDERLINE, SIZE FONT,
and FONT COLOUR to selected text, by highlighting the text. For example select the text, then click
the Bold button to apply bold formatting, if you click the Bold button again you remove the Bold
formatting from the selected text.

HOW TO APPLY BOLD, ITALIC AND UNDERLINE FORMATTING

USING THE FORMATTING TOOOLBAR

1. Highlight the word, sentence or paragraph to be formatted by using the mouse

2. Click the BOLD, ITALIC and UNDERLINE BUTTON

USING THE MENU BAR TO FORMAT A TEXT

Microsoft word display your text in the format and font size in which it will print. You can change
the format of the default text to suit you.
• Highlight the text, sentence or paragraph, you want to format using the mouse
• From the HOME MENU, Choose FONT, OR PRESS CTRL + D
• From the Dialog Box, under FONT, choose the require Font e.g. Arial Black
• Under FONT STYLE, choose BOLD, ITALIC
• Under SIZE, Choose the required FONT SIZE
• Under FONT COLOR, choose the required COLOR e.g. Blue
• Under UNDERLINE STYLE, choose the required LINE STYLE e.g. Double underline
• Under UNDERLINE COLOR, choose the required LINE COLOR e.g. red underline
• Under EFFECT activate all the necessary check box the required command
• Choose OK BUTTON

FORMATTING DOCUMENT INTO COLUMNS

1. Select the text you want to create column for
2. From PAGE LAYOUT, Choose COLUMNS
3. From the dialog box options
PRESETS: select a column format
One, two, three: insert one, two, three columns of equal width
LEFT: formats the text in two columns. The left column is half wide as the right column.
RIGHT: formats the text in two columns. The right columns is half as wide as the left column

NUMBER OFCLUMNS: type or select the number of columns you want

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 LINE BETWEEN: Prints a vertical line in the space between columns. The line is as long as
the longest column on the page or in the section. You can see the vertical line between the
columns in page view or print preview.

WIDTH AND SPACING: sets the width of columns and the space between columns

COL. #: Displays the columns number whose width and spacing you can change. Column 1 is
the farthest left column; column 2 is to the right of column 1, and so one.

WIDTH: Type or select a measurement fro the width of the column

EQUAL COLUMN WIDTH: Sets equal width for all the columns in the section that contains
the insertion point, for a selection, or an entire document. If you select the equal column
width check box, you can change only the measurement in the spacing box; word
automatically calculated the column width.

APPLY TO: select the portion of the document to which you want to apply column
formatting

WHOLE DOCUMENT: Applies column formatting to the entire document

SELECTED TEXT: Inserts sections break before and after the selected text and graphics, and
then apply column formatting.
THIS POINT FORWARD: Apply column formatting only to the selected sections
SELECTED SECTIONS: Apply column formatting only to the selected sections
THIS SECTION: Applies 2 columns formatting only to the section containing the insertion
point.
START NEW COLUMN: Starts a new column at the insertion point by inserting a column
break.
PREVIEW: The preview box shows the effects of the chosen formatting before you apply it.

HOW TO WRAP TEXT AROUND A PICTURE / CLIPART

1. Position the cursor where you want to insert the PICTURE /CLIPART
2. Insert the PICTURE / CLIPART as usual
3. Right Mouse click on the PICTURE / CLIPART
4. From the Menu, Choose the required Wrapping Style e.g. tight
5. Choose the OK BUTTON

DATE / TIME FORMAT

You can Insert Date, Time or a combination of both Date and Time into a Document
METHOD
1. Position the Insertion Point where you want to Insert Date / Time
2. From INSERT MENU, Choose DATE AND TIME
3. From the Dialogue Box, Under Available Formats: Choose the DATE / TIME Format you want
to Insert
4. If you want to Update DATE / TIME Automatically, ACTIVATE THE CHECK Box for Update
Automatically
5. Choose the OK BUTTON

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SPELL CHECK DOCUMENT
You can check the spelling of one word, a selection of text or an entire document
1. From the REVIEW MENU, Under PROOFING, choose SPELLING & GRAMMAR or press F7 on the
keyboard.
2. For each word that is displayed in the NOT in dictionary box, do one of the following
• To accept the spelling in the change to box, replace the misspelled word with a selection in the
suggestions box, or replace the misspelling you type in the change to text box, choose the CHANGE
BUTTON
• To replace all instances of the mis-spelled word in the document, choose the CHANGE ALL BUTTONS
• To add the word to the custom dictionary selected in the add word to toolbox, CHOOSE ADD
BUTTON
• To display a list of proposed replacement words in the suggestion box, choose the SUGGEST
BUTTON
• To leave the word unchanged, choose IGNORE BUTTON
• To leave all instances of the word unchanged when you check spelling in this document and all
document opened during the current word session, choose the IGNORE ALL BUTTON.
• To add the misspelled word and its correction to the autocorrect list, choose the auto CORRECT
BUTTON.
• To customize spelling check, choose the OPTION BUTTON
3. To return to the document, Choose the OK BUTTON.
Later you will complete the main document by typing and editing the text and inserting merge fields.

SORTING
SORT COMMAND: This arranges the information in selected rows, lists or a series of paragraphs
alphabetically, numerically, or by date. When the selection is not in a table, the name of the
Command changes to SORT Text. When Sorting, Word treat any amount of text outside a table that
is followed by a paragraph mark () as a paragraphs.

METHOD
1. Create a Table OR Type some list of Names, with each name in a row
2. From the LAYOUT MENU, Under DATA, Choose SORT
3. From the Dialogue Box that appears, Under SORT BY, Choose PARAGRAPHS or THE FIELD
NAME you want to SORT BY
4. Under TYPE, Choose either TEXT, NUMBER or DATE
5. Choose either ASCENDING or DESCENDING
6. under MY LIST HAS, Choose either HEADER ROW or NO HEADER ROW
7. Choose the OK BUTTON

PRINTING DOCUMENT
PREVIEWING DOCUMENT BEFORE PRINTING
Before printing a document, it’s good idea to make sure that it will be printed the way you want it.
By print preview you can see entire pages at a time.
TO PREVIEW DOCUMENT BEFORE PRINTING
1. Click the PRINT PREVIEW button from the OFFICE BUTTON or Press CTRL + F2
2. From the Print Preview toolbar, you can:
• Display one page at a time or display two or more pages at a time
• View a magnified area of the document
• Reduce or enlarge the page(s) displayed
3. To print document, choose the PRINT BUTTON on the print preview toolbar
4. To return to document view, choose CLOSE BUTTON

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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 EXERCISE 2

1. Choosing NEW from your OFFICE BUTTON, create a contemporary resume for yourself. Save
the resume as ‘my resume’.
2. Write a letter to your brother, informing him of your newly acquired ability to use a
computer. Save the letter in your name.
3. Rename the file in question 1 as ‘new resume’.
4. Copy the letter in question 2 to a new document. Save the document in your surname.
5. In the document in question 4, convert the first line to tOGGLE cASE, the second to lower
case, the third to Sentence case, the fourth to UPPER CASE and the fifth to Title Case.
6. Write the following: ‘The angry black dog ran after the small hungry cat’. Using find and
replace; change the word ‘angry’ to ‘big’, and ‘hungry’ to ‘grey’.
7. From your PAGE SETUP in PAGE LAYOUT MENU, reduce the margins on the left of your
page to 0.8” and increase the margins from the top to 2”. Change the orientation off your
page from PORTRAIT to LANDSCAPE.
8. Copy the sentence in question 6, paste it into a full 3 pages. On the 1st page, use single line
spacing, on the second page, use 1.5 line spacing and on the third page apply double
spacing.
9. Justify the 1st page of question 8 to the RIGHT, the 2nd to CENTRE and the 3rd to JUSTIFY.
10. From your INSERT MENU, add page numbers to your document in question 8.
11. Add the header “The cat and the dog” and the footer “Hungry and angry” in your document.
12. Protect your document with a password of your choice
13. Delete the password.
14. Create the Table below.

NO NAMES OPTIONS PARTICIPANTS C DATE OTHERS

RED 22
RED 55
RED 234
RED 56
Total FILL WITH GREEN COLOR 13
BLUE TOTAL

15. Using FORMULA in TABLE MENU, find the total for OTHERS.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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 SPREAD SHEET APPLICATION SOFTWARE
(MICROSOFT EXCEL 2007 / 2010)

INTRODUCTION
Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet programme. Spreadsheet; mostly called electronic spread sheet is
an accounting package that replaces accountant ledger book, calculator, Pencil, Eraser, etc. It is a
huge chart consisting of series of rows and columns. These rows and columns intercept each other
to form rectangular blocks called CELLS, which can be filled with text, numbers, date and formula.

The number of rows and columns vary from package to package. For example the spreadsheet of
Microsoft Excel consist of 16,384 COLUMNS and 1,048,576 ROWS. The columns are denoted with
alphabetical character (A, B, C, ….XFD) while the rows are denoted with Arabic Numerals (1, 2,
3,…0). Spreadsheet programs are popular because of their ability to house a large data, which
might otherwise be impossible to process as a single piece. The data in turn can be printed out
imparts. It also offers facility like the commands, which is used to reference reproduce a particular
cell without the rigours of entering the whole data. Also, once the spreadsheet is setup, any data
entered is automatically related to those that were already entered. This allows for automatic
calculation that could be repetitive if done manually to be accomplished at no greater effort. It also
allow for automatic recalculation in all numeric cells once there is a change in data value or
formula.

There are so many Spreadsheet Programmes, but the most popular ones are Microsoft Excel, Lotus
1-2-3, Quattro Pro, Symphony and Supercalc.

MICROSOFT EXCEL
Microsoft Excel belongs to the family of Microsoft Office 2007 / 2010. Microsoft excel for Windows
is a spreadsheet program. Excel does gorgeous worksheet and three-dimensional graphs. Beside
Excel’s auto filter command that handles equivalent of the old database extract without the
criterion formula, it also offers intelligent sorting and transparently simple subtotalling command
for those who manage lists on worksheet grid. The wizard in excel show you how text imported
from external data files will be split across columns and let you fine tune with mouse.

STARTING MICROSOFT EXCEL

When windows are fully loaded, follow the procedures below to load Microsoft Excel:

METHOD
1 choose START, PROGRAMS, MS EXCEL OR
Click the MS Excel shortcut icon on the desktop and wait for the program to load

CREATING A WORKSHEET
ENTERING DATA
Data entered into cells can be text numbers, formula and date

a) ENTERING TEXT AND NUMBERS

1. Select the cell or cells range into which you want to enter data
2. Type Data
3. Press Enter
4. To enter additional data in cells range, repeat steps 2 and 3 for each entry

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TO TYPE THE SAME ENTRY INTO SEVERAL CELLS:
1. Select the cell into which you want to enter data (the selected cells can be adjacent or non
adjacent)
2. Type the data
3. Press CTRL + ENTER
The data will be entered into all selected cells
Note: Numbers are automatically right – aligned; text is automatically left aligned. Microsoft excels
automatically assigns built in number if it can.

b) ENTERING DATE
1. Select cell into which you want to enter date
2. Type date or time, you can use either a slash or hyphen when you are entering a dates.
3. Press enter
Note: CTRL + SEMICOLON (enter today’s Date), CTRL + SHIFT + COLON (Enter the current
time)

c) ENTERING FORMULA
1. Select cell into which you want to enter formula
2. Type an EQUAL SIGN (=) to activate the FORMULA BAR
If you begin a formula by pasting a name or function, Microsoft excel automatically inserts
the equal sign
3. Type the formula or use any of the following techniques to enter a formula into a formula
bar.
Insert reference into your formula by selecting cells on your worksheet.
When you select cell, Microsoft excel inserts relatives reference in your formula
OR
From the FORMULA BAR, to open the function wizard, choose the function your want to
past into the formula the function wizard box.

d) ENTERING FUNCTIONS
The FUNCTION WIZARD allows you to automate formula creation. You must choose a list of
built in function and any customized function you might have created.

1. To paste a function at the beginning of a formula, select the cell where you want to enter
the formula
To paste a function elsewhere in the formula, position the insertion point where you want
to insert the function
2. From the FORMULA MENU, choose FUNCTION (click the function wizard button or SHIFT +
F3). Microsoft office display the function wizard dialogue box, listing function types of
logical groupings and available worksheet function for each, including custom functions.
3. Select the FUNCTION CATEGORY. The all category includes all functions
4. Select the function name
5. Choose the OK button

OPENIGN SAVING AND PROTECTING WORKSHEET

1. Choose OPEN from the OFFICE BUTTON OR Press shortcut key CTRL+O
2. In the FILE NAME box, type the name of the file you want to open, or select it from the list
3. Choose the OPEN BUTTON / OK BUTTON

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SAVING A WORKBOOK
1. Choose SAVE from OFFICE BUTTON OR press shortcut key CTRL + S
OR
2. If you have not saved the workbook or accept the proposed name. To save it to a different
directory or drive, select or type the directory name or drive
3. Choose the SAVE BUTTON

SAVING A WORKBOOK WITH A DIFFERENT NAME

1. From the OFFICE BUTTON, choose SAVE AS OR press shortcut key F12
2. In the name box, type a name or accept the proposed name.
3. Choose the SAVE BUTTON / OK BUTTON

BASING A NEW WORKSHEET ON A TEMPLATE

1. From the OFFICE BUTTON choose NEW
2. Under INSTALLED TEMPLATE, Select the template on which you want to base a new
workbook Microsoft Excel creates a copy of the templates for you to use and give it a
temporary name.
3. Choose CREATE to create a copy of the template instantly

PROTECTING A WORKBOOKWITH A PASSWORD

1. Open the workbook you want to protect
2. From the OFFICE BUTTON, choose SAVE AS OR press shortcut key F12
3. Choose the TOOLS BUTTON, GENERAL OPTIONS
4. In the PROTECTION PASSWORD box, type a password
5. Choose the OK Button
6. In the RE-ENTER PROTECTION PASSWORD box, type the password again
7. In the save as dialog box, choose the OK button to protect password workbook.

COPYING/MOVING DATA
Copying command copies the selection onto the clipboard. The selection can be a cell, a cell range,
a non adjacent cell selection, characters in the cell or formula bar, a graphic object, chart, or a
series.
METHOD
METHOD
S/NO COPYING CUT / MOVING
1. Select Cell or Range of Cells to be copied Select cell or cells to be MOVE / CUT
2. Choose COPY from the HOME MENU OR Press Choose CUT from the HOME MENU OR
CTRL + C Press CTRL + X
3. Position cursor where data is to be pasted Position cursor where data is to be pasted
4. Choose PASTE from the HOME MENU OR Choose PASTE from the HOME MENU OR
press CTRL + V press CTRL + V

TO MOVE BY DRAGGING
1. Select the cell or cell you want to move
2. Position the mouse pointer over the border of the selection
3. Drag the pointer over the border of the selection
3. Drag the selection to the paste area where you want to move the data, while you drag, a
border appears to indicate the size and position of the selection. If the paste area is located
beyond the visible portion of the worksheet, drag the selection to the edge of the window
to scroll through worksheet.

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FORMATTING A WORKSHEET
CHANGING COLUMN WIDTH AND ROW HEIGHT
a) TO CHANGE ROW HEIGHT
1. Select row or rows. If you want to change height for all in the worksheet, click the select ALL
BUTTON OR press CTRL+A
2. For Row Height, Drag the border below the row heading until the row is the height you
want
The height measurement is displayed at the left of the formula bar.
3. For Column Width, Drag the border to the right of the column heading until the column is
the width you want

NOTE: The height measurement is displayed at the left of the formula bar.

b) TO ROTATE THE COLUMN LABEL

1. Select the text with the text you want to rotate
2. From the ALIGNMENT RIBBON, choose FORMAT CELLS OR press CTRL + 1
3. Select ALIGNMENT TAB
4. Under ORIENTATION, select the orientation that you want
5. Select the WRAP TEXT check box
6. Choose the OK button

FORMATTING CELL CONTENTS FOR NUMBERS, DATE OR TIME

1. Select the cell you want to format. To select the entire worksheet, click square on the
worksheet directly above the row numbers or press CTRL + SPACE BAR
2. From the ALIGNMENT RIBBON, choose FORMAT CELLS OR press CTRL + 1
3. Select ALIGNMENT TAB;
4. Under ORIENTATION, select the orientation that you want
5. Select the WRAP TEXT check box
6. Choose the OK button

FORMATTING NUMBERS AS TEXT

1. Select the cells as text before entering the numbers
2. From the ALIGNMENT RIBBON, choose FORMAT CELLS OR press CTRL + 1
3. Select the NUMBER TAB
4. In the CATEGORY BOX, select TEXT
5. Choose the OK button
6. Enter number into the formatted cells
NOTE: numbers formatted as text align to the left of the cell.

FORMATTING WITH BORDERS, PATTERNS AND COLOR

TO FORMAT CELL WITH SOLID COLORS / PATTERN
1. Select the cell you want to format
2. From the ALIGNMENT RIBBON, choose FORMAT CELLS OR press CTRL + 1
3. Select the PATTERN TAB
3. Select a COLOUR on the palette

TRANSPOSING ROWS AND COLUMS

Rows cells entries can be covered to column entries
1. Select the cells that you want to transpose
2. Press CTRL+C to COPY
3. Go to the paste area and Right Mouse Click

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4. From the MENU that appears, choose PASTE SPECIAL
5. Select the TRANSPOSE CHECK BOX
6. Choose Ok button

FREEZING AND UNFREEZING WORKSHEET TITLES

Freezing titles keep the information you need in view no matter how far you scroll. To freeze
horizontal titles, select the row below your titles.
1. To FREEZE HORIZONTAL TITLES, select the row below your titles
2. To FREEZE VERTICAL TITLES, select the columns to the right of your titles
3. From the VIEW MENU, Under WINDOW, choose FREEZE PANES

TO FREEZE BOTH HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL TITLES

1. Select the cell where you want to freeze titles
All rows above the selected cell will be frozen
All columns to the left of the selected cell will be frozen
4. From the VIEW MENU, Under WINDOW, choose FREEZE PANES

PRINTING WORKSHEET
SELECTING UP A SHEET FOR PRINTING
Setting page orientation and size
1. Select the sheets for which you want this action to be applied
2. From the PAGE LAYOUT MENU, choose PAGE SETUP
3. Select the PAGE TAB
4. To set the page orientation portrait (vertical), select the portrait option button under
ORIENTATION.
To set the page orientation to landscape (horizontal), select the LANDSCAPE option button
To close the page setup dialog box, choose the OK button
To print now, choose the PRINTER BUTTON

CREATING HEADER AND FOOTER

1. Select the select or sheets for which you want this action to be apply
2. From the PAGE LAYOUT MENU, choose PAGE SETUP
3. Select the HEADER/FOOTER TAB
4. Select the built-in Header or footer, in the header box or footer box, select the header and
footer you want. To create a custom header and footer, choose the CUSTOM HEADER
BUTTON
5. If you have chosen Header or Footer, in the header or footer dialog box, select a section and
then click the button to insert the header or footer codes you want in that section. You can
also type the header and footer codes you want to insert. To enter text n addition to
header or footer codes, type the codes directly in the old one.

NOTE: You can have only one custom header or footer at a time. If you create a new
custom header or footer; it will replace the old one.
6. If you want to format the text, section the text, choose the FONT BUTTON in the dialog box,
selects the formatting you want and choose the OK button
7. Choose the OK button to close header or footer dialog box
8. To close the page setup dialog box, choose the OK button
To print now, choose the PRINT button

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PRINTING GRIDLINES AND ROW AND COLUMN HEADINGS
1. Select the sheet or sheets for which you want this action to apply
2. From the PAGE LAYOUT MENU, choose PAGE SETUP
3. Select the SHEET TAB
4. To print the gridlines select the GRIDLINES CHECK BOX under print
To print row and column headings, select the ROW AND COLUMN HEADING CHECK BOX.
5. To close the page setup dialog box, choose OK button
To print now, choose the PRINT BUTTON

SPECIFYING AREAS OF WORKSHEET TO PRINT

1. Select the sheet or sheets for which you want this action to apply
2. From the PAGE LAYOUT MENU, choose PAGE SETUP
3. Select the SHEET TAB
4. Select the PRINT AREA
5. On the worksheet, select the range or ranges you want to print. If needed, drag the page
setup dialog box out of your worksheet, while you select the range to print
You can also type cell references or defined names in the print area box
6. To close the page setup dialog box, choose Ok button
To print now, choose the PRINT BUTTON
PREVIEWING WHAT WILL PRINT
1. Select the sheet or sheets you want to print
2. Click the print preview button
Microsoft excel displays a full view of the active sheet in the preview window. To display
the page in magnified view in the preview window, choose the zoom button; click the area
of the page you want to see. Choose the zoom button or click again to display the full page.
3. To print form the preview window without printing choose the CLOSE BUTTON.

CREATING A CHART (GRAPH)

WHAT IS CHART?
A chart is a graphical representation of worksheet data. Charts can make data interesting, attractive, and
easy to read and evaluate. They can also help you analyze and compare data.

When you create a chart based on a worksheet selection, Microsoft excel uses the values from the
worksheet and presents them in the chart as DATA POINTS, which are represented by bars, lines, columns,
slices, dot, and other shapes. Their shapes are referred to as DATA MARKERS.

Groups of data points or data markers, originating from single worksheet rows or columns are grouped into
DATA SERIES. Each data series is then distinguished by a unique colour or pattern, or both. After creating a
chart, you can enhance it and emphasize certain information by adding chart items, such as data labels, a
legend, titles, text trend lines, error bars, and gridlines. Most chart times, can be moved and sized. You can
also format these items using patterns, colours, alignment, fonts and other formatting attributes.

CREATING AN EMBEDDED CHART IN A WORKSHEET

The easiest way to create and embedded chart on a worksheet is with the chart wizard button.

METHOD
1. In the worksheet, select the data you want to plot, including cells containing any category or series
names that you want to use in the chart.
2. Click the WIZARD BUTTON
3. Follow the instructions in the chart wizard\
4. To move forward or backward between steps, choose the NEXT BUTTON or the Back button
5. Choose the FINISH BUTTON during any of the steps, and the chart wizard will finish the chart for
you.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

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 PRACTICAL EXERCISE
1. Create a simple Database as shown below in MS-Excel

S/N DETAILS QTY RATE SALES AMOUNT

1 MILO 15 600.00
2 MILK 10 850.00
3 CLOSEUP 12 300.00
4 SUGAR 25 250.00
5 OMO 50 560.00
a. Write a formula to calculate the Sales Amount

2. Create a simple Database as shown below in MS-Excel

S/N NAMES COURSE FEES PAID 1 PAID 2 BALANCE

1 BABA DIPLOMA 45,000.00 7,500.00 18,500.00
2 JOHN DIPLOMA 45,000.00 12,000.00 20,950.00
3 GRACE CERTIFICATE 30,000.00 7,500.00 13,000.00
4 NGOZY DIPLOMA 45,000.00 9,450.00 20,000.00
5 ZAINAB CERTIFICATE 30,000.00 7,000.00 18,500.00

TOTAL FEES
AVERAGE
MAX
MIN
STDEV
COUNT
a. Write a formula to calculate and fill the empty cells, e.g Balance, Total Fees, Total Paid 1,
Total Paid 2, and Total Balance, Average, Maximum & Minimum Value, Standard
Deviation and Count.

3. Prepare a payment voucher in the format below

DEDUCTIONS ARE
ALLOWANCES ARE CERTAIN % OF

DEDUCTIO
SALARY –
CERTAIN % OF BASIC

GROSS
BASIC BASIC SALARY GROSS
S/N NAME SALARY

N
SALARY SALARY
Health Housing Transport Pension
Tax 0.6%
15% 16% 10% 8%
1 MUSA 25,567.22
2 ABBA 21,432.87
3 VIVIAN 15,678.22
4 JOE 32,567.03
5 JOHN 35,500.25
a. Write a formula to calculate and fill the empty cells
4. Create a simple Database as shown below in MS-Excel

S/N NAMES TEST 1=20% TEST 2=20% EXAMS=60% TOTAL=100% GRADE REMARKS POSITION

1 BABA 19 19 55
2 JOHN 14 9 55
3 GRACE 15 17 35
4 NGOZY 18 13 30
5 ZAINAB 21 22 50

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
a. From the above Table, write formulas calculate the followings:
b. Total Scores, Grade, Remarks and Class Position for each student
c. Write a formula to Validate the Data entry for Test 1, Test 2, and Examination
Given that:
SCORES RANGE GRADES REMARKS
70 -100 A EXCELLENT
60 – 69 B V. GOOD
50 – 59 C GOOD
45 – 49 D PASS
40 – 44 E FAIR
00 – 39 F FAIL

5. Solve the following Quadratic Equation

Y = X2 – 4X + 6 = 0
Given that X = -3 to 3, find the value of Y and Plot a Quadratic Equation chart

X Y
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
3
4

THIS ENDS MICROSOFT EXCEL

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 APPENDIX A
GENERAL KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS
Press To
CTRL+C Copy.
CTRL+X Cut.
CTRL+V Paste.
CTRL+Z Undo.
DELETE Delete.
Delete selected item permanently without placing the item
SHIFT+DELETE
in the Recycle Bin.
CTRL while dragging an item Copy selected item.
CTRL+SHIFT while dragging an item Create shortcut to selected item.
F2 Rename selected item.
CTRL+RIGHT ARROW Move the insertion point to the beginning of the next word.
Move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous
CTRL+LEFT ARROW
word.
Move the insertion point to the beginning of the next
CTRL+DOWN ARROW
paragraph.
Move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous
CTRL+UP ARROW
paragraph.
CTRL+SHIFT with any of the arrow
Highlight a block of text.
keys
Select more than one item in a window or on the desktop,
SHIFT with any of the arrow keys
or select text within a document.
CTRL+A Select all.
F3 Search for a file or folder.
ALT+ENTER View properties for the selected item.
ALT+F4 Close the active item, or quit the active program.
ALT+Enter Displays the properties of the selected object.
ALT+SPACEBAR Opens the shortcut menu for the active window.
Close the active document in programs that allow you to
CTRL+F4
have multiple documents open simultaneously.
ALT+TAB Switch between open items.
ALT+ESC Cycle through items in the order they were opened.
Cycle through screen elements in a window or on the
F6
desktop.
Display the Address bar list in My Computer or Windows
F4
Explorer.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
SHIFT+F10 Display the shortcut menu for the selected item.
ALT+SPACEBAR Display the System menu for the active window.
CTRL+ESC Display the Start menu.
ALT+Underlined letter in a menu
Display the corresponding menu.
name
Underlined letter in a command
Carry out the corresponding command.
name on an open menu
F10 Activate the menu bar in the active program.
RIGHT ARROW Open the next menu to the right, or open a submenu.
LEFT ARROW Open the next menu to the left, or close a submenu.
F5 Refresh the active window.
View the folder one level up in My Computer or Windows
BACKSPACE
Explorer.
ESC Cancel the current task.
SHIFT when you insert a CD into the
Prevent the CD from automatically playing.
CD-ROM drive

DIALOG BOX KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

Press To
CTRL+TAB Move forward through tabs.
CTRL+SHIFT+TAB Move backward through tabs.
TAB Move forward through options.
SHIFT+TAB Move backward through options.
ALT+Underlined
Carry out the corresponding command or select the corresponding option.
letter
ENTER Carry out the command for the active option or button.
SPACEBAR Select or clear the check box if the active option is a check box.
Arrow keys Select a button if the active option is a group of option buttons.
F1 Display Help.
F4 Display the items in the active list.
Open a folder one level up if a folder is selected in the Save As or Open
BACKSPACE
dialog box.

NATURAL KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

Press To
START Display or hide the Start menu.
START +BREAK Display the System Properties dialog box.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
START +D Show the desktop.
START +M Minimize all windows.
START +Shift+M Restores minimized windows.
START +E Open My Computer.
START +F Search for a file or folder.
CTRL+ +F Search for computers.
START +F1 Display Windows Help.
Lock your computer if you are connected to a network domain, or switch
START + L
users if you are not connected to a network domain.
START +R Open the Run dialog box.
START Display the shortcut menu for the selected item.
START +U Open Utility Manager.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742
 ACCESSIBILITY KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

Press To
Right SHIFT for eight seconds Switch FilterKeys on and off.
Left ALT +left SHIFT +PRINT SCREEN Switch High Contrast on and off.
Left ALT +left SHIFT +NUM LOCK Switch MouseKeys on and off.
SHIFT five times Switch StickyKeys on and off.
NUM LOCK for five seconds Switch ToggleKeys on and off.
START +U Open Utility Manager.

WINDOWS EXPLORER KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

Press To
END Display the bottom of the active window.
HOME Display the top of the active window.
NUM LOCK+ASTERISK on numeric
Display all subfolders under the selected folder.
keypad (*)
NUM LOCK+PLUS SIGN on numeric
Display the contents of the selected folder.
keypad (+)
NUM LOCK+MINUS SIGN on numeric
Collapse the selected folder.
keypad (-)
Collapse current selection if it's expanded, or select
LEFT ARROW
parent folder.
Display current selection if it's collapsed, or select first
RIGHT ARROW
subfolder.

Training Manual on BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS

Written & Prepared By: Royal Computer Academy Limited, Hakimi Street, Dutse, Jigawa State
GSM: 08038347849, 08077783650, 08025030742