PCs for Dummies Quick Reference

This tiny guide delivers detailed "how to"s for somebody that really hasn't EVER used a computer. And even for seasoned users, having lists of usual Windows keyboard shortcuts comes in handy. The style is funny enough at times. At the Glossary (who reads those things :)?) the definition of "drivers": "D are programs that make hardware work. There are printer drivers, monitor drivers, women drivers" without any qualifications I think has the same matter-of-fact humour of, say, Buster Keaton. The chapter on networking is not so "easy", I suspect most users don't know a thing or two there. The author is a master at communicating, making simple the obtruse. One is not surprised to learn he sold more than 14 million copies of his "Dummies" series, and that his "DOS x Dummies" spawned the entire series. Note that this version covers Windows XP, NOT Vista. For that, surely you'll want the newer edition. My mum has XP, and I've still got one XP around (as most of us who want a working computer :) so if you have XP, buy this edition, not the newest. He's very sound in that he puts money considerations into the equation, as well as only explaining what Windows can do (in terms of the explanations). Not "third party software". For instance, you only get how to record CDs, not DVDs, for XP only has a CD recorder. Of course you can get more detailed coverage of topics, but... at this size? I think that in its genre, it could hardly be improved. That's why I give it 5 deserved stars.

This book is full of great information and to the point. I hate books where I think, "Well I'll never need that information." But this book is stocked full of practical and useful computer topics. Stick this book by your computer like I did. I refer to it from time to time and it really helps me.

Quick and to the Point! I love this book. No extra verbage, just quick, easy steps to get the job done.

this book offers many practical tips for everything about pcs. the section on setting up a pc is helpfull.