How to buy a computer book

When teaching my basic computer classes, I often get the question, "What is a good computer book?"

This is also followed or preceded by the complaint that the individual's computer did not come with a manual.

As strange as it may seem, there is a very good reason why the average computer doesn't come will a full instruction book. The reason is that there is too much to know about a computer to fit in a single manual.

Most computers come with a small user guide that shows how to turn it on and what numbers to call for tech support. Strangely this little guide is often a file on the computer, so you must turn the computer on in order to read it.

Another reason why your computer doesn't come with a manual is because most questions people have about their computer have nothing to do with the computer itself, the questions are all related to the programs on the computer.

For example, "How do I spell check my email?" or "How do I make a greeting card," are in no way related to the computer in general. Those questions are all about a particular piece of software.

Here are a few tips on buying a good computer book:

1. Make a list of every question you can think of (regarding your computer).

2. Break the questions into groups. Some of the questions will be about email, some will be about writing letters, digital photography, etc.

3. Go to the book store and look up the answers to your questions in books related to your subjects. For example, your questions about how to write letters and create documents will be in a book about Microsoft Word, Works, or Corel WordPerfect. Email questions will be in a book about Outlook Express, AOL or Thunderbird.

4. If you can find answers to your questions and the answers seem fairly easy to understand, you have found your book.

Every person learns differently. Some people learn by looking at pictures and illustrations, others like lists and a few folks like reading large paragraphs. Pick a style that fits your way of learning.

No matter what program you need help with, anyone with a new computer should probably buy a book on Microsoft Windows. Since all of the programs on your computer are controlled my Microsoft Windows, a book on the topic will have all kinds of tips and tricks that will help you make it through the learning stages. 

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