Confident Computing for the Over 50s: Teach Yourself

Summary:

Do you feel that you have been left behind in the technological revolution? Assuming no prior knowledge of using a computer, this book is written in a practical, light-hearted and non-technical style to take the terror out of the technology.

Bob Reeves approaches the subject in a highly accessible way, focusing on the computer applications of most interest to middle and third agers, including correspondence, photography, shopping online, personal budgets and researching your family history. It begins with the very basics and ends with an invaluable 'jargonbuster' glossary.

The book is made up of a series of self-contained chapters, with the emphasis on what the computer is being used for, rather than the software needed. For example: rather than a chapter on 'word-processing', there is a chapter on 'letter writing'; rather than 'desktop publishing' there is 'making a newsletter' and 'making cards for all occasions'; rather than one on 'digital photography' there is ' getting photographs on to the computer' etc. There will be clear instructions supported with screenshots, tips and hints throughout.

This approach sets it apart from other books on basic computer skills as it covers what you really want to do with your computer, breaking down any technical barriers and making the book totally relevant to the novice computer user.

NOT GOT MUCH TIME?
One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.

AUTHOR INSIGHTS
Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience.

TEST YOURSELF
Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.

EXTEND YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Extra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of computing.

FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBER
Quick refreshers to help you remember the key facts.

TRY THIS
Innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.

• Written with humour in plain language to take the fear out of using a computer for the first time. Including a comprehensive jargonbuster glossary, it cuts through the 'techno babble'
• Explains how to carry out the simple, everyday tasks that every reader needs.
• Written specifically with the older reader in mind
• Large typeface for easy reading.

• Competitively priced

Table of Contents:
Choosing a computer.
What other equipment you might need
What programs (software) you might need.
Getting started
How to get equipment and programs on to your computer.
Writing letters
Writing minutes and other types of documents
Keeping in touch using email.
Sending and receiving pictures and other attachments using email including file management.
Finding what you need on the Internet
Buying products and services on the Internet.
Buying from an online auction.
Other ways of keeping in touch
Getting music/video on the Internet
Other Common Uses for the Internet
Keeping your personal information safe online
How to get pictures from your digital camera onto your computer.
How to scan traditional photographs into your computer.
Keeping track of your photographs
Copying files onto CD, DVD and memory stick.
Making cards for all occasions using desktop publishing.
Making a newsletter.
Making a poster.
Keeping track of your personal finances
Keeping track of your investments.
Introduction to database software.
Creating a presentation for a group. The step-by-step instructions will include how to create, add and run slides.
'Jargon-buster’ glossary.
Index

About the Author(s):
Bob Reeves is an ICT and Personal Finance Education consultant and writer. Based in Lincolnshire, he also holds the position of Team Leader/Senior Examiner (Computing) for the AQA Examination Board in Manchester.

He trained as a teacher specialising in business and ICT and has taught on a range of business and ICT courses over the years with students as young as 4 and as old as 80.

This and his sister title, The Internet & Email for the Over 50s, have many fans who love his practical and easy style.

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