What is

Computer?
 A computer is an electronic device that processes
data and performs tasks according to a set of
instructions (called a program). It can handle a wide
range of functions, from basic calculations to complex
operations like running applications, browsing the
internet, and more.
Basic Components of a
Computer

1. Hardware: The physical parts of a computer.

2. Software: The instructions that tell the

hardware what to do.
Hardware
 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Often called the brain of the computer, the CPU

performs calculations and executes instructions. It’s
responsible for processing the data.
CPU
Hardware
 Memory (RAM)

Random Access Memory (RAM) is temporary

storage that the CPU uses to store data that is actively
being used or processed. The more RAM a computer
has, the more tasks it can handle simultaneously.
Memory (RAM)
Hardware
 Storage

Where data is stored long-term. Common types

include Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and Solid State Drives
(SSDs). SSDs are faster but usually more expensive
than HDDs.
Storage
Hardware
 Motherboard

The main circuit board that connects all the

components of the computer. It allows communication
between the CPU, memory, storage, and other
hardware.
Motherboard
Hardware
 Power Supply

Converts electricity from an outlet into a usable

form for the computer’s components.
Power Supply
Hardware
 Input Devices

Devices like the keyboard, mouse, and

touchscreen that allow you to interact with the
computer.
Input Devices
Hardware
 Output Devices

Devices like monitors and printers that display or

produce the results of the computer's processes.
Output Devices
Software
 Operating System (OS)
The main software that manages the computer’s
resources and provides a user interface. Common
examples are Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Software
 Applications:

Programs designed to perform specific tasks, like

word processing (e.g., Microsoft Word), web browsing
(e.g., Google Chrome), or photo editing (e.g., Adobe
Photoshop).
Software
 Drivers

Software that allows the operating system to

communicate with hardware devices like printers,
graphics cards, and more.
Starting and
Shutting Down
Starting and Shutting Down
 Powering On

Press the power button to start the computer. The

operating system (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) will
load.
Starting and Shutting Down
 Logging In

Enter your username and password if required.

Starting and Shutting Down
 Shutting Down

Go to the Start menu (Windows) and select the

shutdown or restart option.
Using a Mouse
Using a Mouse
 Clicking

Pressing the left button on a mouse to select

items.
Clicking
Using a Mouse
 Right-clicking

Opens a context menu with additional options for

the selected item.
Right-clicking
Using a Mouse
 Dragging

Click and hold to move items on the screen.

Dragging
Using a Mouse
 Scrolling

Use the scroll wheel on a mouse or swipe on a

touchpad to move up and down through content.
Scrolling
Using a Keyboard
Keyboard
The keyboard is used for typing text into the computer. It is
also known as standard Input device. A computer keyboard is similar
to that of a type writer with additional keys.

There are different types of keys on the keyboard. The keys are
categorized as:
 Alphanumeric keys, including letters & numbers.
 Punctuation keys, such as colon (:), semicolon (;) Question mark (?),
Single & double quotes (‘, “)
 Special keys such as arrow keys, control keys, function keys (F1 to
F12), HOME, END etc.
Keyboard
How Computer
Works
ANATOMY OF COMPUTERS
Input

Data is entered into the computer using an input

device, like typing on a keyboard or clicking with a
mouse.
ANATOMY OF COMPUTERS
Processing

The CPU takes the input data and processes it

according to the program's instructions.
Three logical units of CPU
Memory Unit

It is also known as the primary storage or main

memory. It stores data, program instructions, internal
results and final output temporarily before it is sent to
an appropriate output device.
Three logical units of CPU
Arithmetic and Logical Unit (ALU)

It is the unit where all Arithmetic operations

(addition, subtraction etc.) and logical functions such
as true or false, male or female are performed. Once
data are fed into the main memory from input devices,
they are held and transferred as needed to ALU where
processing takes place.
Three logical units of CPU
Control Unit

It acts as a central nervous system and

ensures that the information is stored correctly and
the program instructions are followed in proper
sequence as well as the data are selected from the
memory as necessary. It also coordinates all the
input and output devices of a system.
ANATOMY OF COMPUTERS
Storage

The processed data can be stored temporarily in

RAM and CPU memory unit or permanently on a
storage device like an SSD.
ANATOMY OF COMPUTERS
Output

The results of the processing are sent to an

output device, like displaying text on a monitor or
printing a document.
Block Diagram of a
Computer
How to Take Care
of Your Computer
Protecting Against Hazards
Avoid Liquid Spills

Keep drinks and other liquids away from your computer.

Even a small spill can cause significant damage to the internal
components.
Protecting Against Hazards
Keep Food Away

Food particles can fall into the keyboard or other

openings, attracting pests or causing sticky keys.
Protecting Against Hazards
Proper Ventilation

Ensure your computer is placed on a stable surface with

plenty of ventilation. Avoid blocking vents to prevent
overheating, which can damage components.
Protecting Against Hazards
Use Surge Protectors

Always plug your computer into a surge protector, not

directly into the wall. This helps protect against sudden voltage
spikes that can fry your hardware.
Protecting Against
Electricity Surges
Use a Quality Surge Protector

Invest in a high-quality surge protector that can handle

the power requirements of your computer and other connected
devices. Look for ones with a high joule rating and automatic
shut-off.
Protecting Against
Electricity Surges
Unplug During Storms

During thunderstorms, unplug your computer and other

sensitive electronics. Even with a surge protector, a direct
lightning strike can cause damage.
Protecting Against
Electricity Surges
Consider a UPS (Uninterruptible Power
Supply)

A UPS not only provides surge protection but also gives

your computer a temporary power source in case of a power
outage. This allows you to save your work and shut down
properly.
Protecting Against
Electricity Surges
Regularly Inspect Cables and Plugs

Check power cables for signs of wear or damage, and

replace them if necessary. Damaged cables can cause short
circuits and electrical fires.
Preventing Repetitive Stress
Injuries (RSIs)
Ergonomic Workspace Setup

Chair: Use an adjustable chair that supports your lower back.

Your feet should rest flat on the floor, with knees at a 90-degree angle.

Desk: Ensure your desk is at a height where your elbows are at

a 90-degree angle when typing.

Monitor: Position your monitor at eye level, about an arm’s

length away, to avoid neck strain.
Preventing Repetitive Stress
Injuries (RSIs)
Keyboard and Mouse Positioning

Keep your keyboard and mouse at the same level, and your
wrists should be straight while typing. Consider using a wrist rest
to maintain a neutral wrist position.
Use a mouse that fits comfortably in your hand and doesn’t
require excessive force or awkward positioning.
Preventing Repetitive Stress
Injuries (RSIs)
Take Frequent Breaks

Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-

second break and look at something 20 feet away to reduce eye
strain.

Stand up, stretch, and move around at least every hour to

prevent stiffness and reduce the risk of RSIs.
Preventing Repetitive Stress
Injuries (RSIs)
Practice Proper Typing Techniques

Use a light touch when typing, and avoid resting your

wrists on the desk or keyboard while typing.

Learn and practice good typing posture, using all fingers

and keeping your hands relaxed.
Preventing Repetitive Stress
Injuries (RSIs)
Use Ergonomic Accessories

Consider ergonomic keyboards, mice, and monitor stands

that promote better posture and reduce strain on your body.
Windows basics
Windows Basic
Desktop & Start Menu

Desktop: The main screen where you can see your icons,
files, and shortcuts.

Start Menu: Accessed by clicking the Windows icon in

the bottom-left corner. It provides access to installed programs,
system settings, and power options.
Windows Basic
Taskbar

Taskbar: Located at the bottom of the screen, it shows

open applications, pinned programs, and the system tray, which
includes the clock, volume, and other icons.

System Tray: The right part of the taskbar displaying

notifications and system icons like Wi-Fi, battery, and more.
Windows Basic
File Explorer

File Explorer: The file management interface, accessed

by clicking the folder icon on the taskbar or pressing windows +
E It helps you navigate through folders, files, and drives.

Navigation Pane: On the left side, showing quick access

to locations like Documents, Downloads, and This PC.
Windows Basic
Basic Operations

Copy, Cut, Paste: Right-click or use keyboard shortcuts

(Ctrl + C, Ctrl + X, Ctrl + V)

Search: Use the search bar in the Start Menu to find

programs, files, or system settings.
Windows Basic
Settings

Settings App: Access it by clicking the gear icon in the

Start Menu or pressing windows + I. It allows you to configure
the system, including updates, personalization, and network
settings.
Windows Basic
Control Panel

An older interface for system settings, still accessible for

more advanced configurations.
Windows Basic
Windows Update

Keeps your system up-to-date with security patches and

new features. It’s crucial to regularly check for and install
updates.
Windows Basic
User Accounts

Windows allows multiple user profiles with individual

settings and files. You can manage these in the Settings app
under "Accounts."
Windows Basic
Security

Windows Defender: The built-in antivirus and security

software. Access it through the Windows Security settings.

Firewall: Protects your computer by filtering incoming

and outgoing traffic. Manage it through the Windows Security or
Control Panel.
Windows Basic
Shut Down, Restart, Sleep

Power Options: Access these through the Start Menu or

by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Del. Shutting down closes all programs
and powers off the system. Restarting does a similar function
but immediately powers back on, while Sleep mode saves your
session to memory and reduces power usage without fully
shutting down.
End of
morning
session
We’ll be right back
Keyboard
Short-cut Keys
Short-Cut Keys

Shortcut keys can significantly enhance

productivity by reducing the need to navigate menus
with a mouse.
General Shortcuts
Ctrl + C: Copy
Ctrl + V: Paste
Ctrl + X: Cut
Ctrl + Z: Undo
Ctrl + Y: Redo
Ctrl + A: Select All
Ctrl + S: Save
Ctrl + P: Print
Alt + Tab: Switch between open applications
Alt + F4: Close the active window
Windows + D: Show/Hide Desktop
Text Editing
Ctrl + B: Bold
Ctrl + I: Italic
Ctrl + U: Underline
Ctrl + K: Insert Hyperlink
Ctrl + Shift + Arrow Key: Select text by word (right/left) or
by paragraph (up/down)
Browser Shortcuts
Ctrl + T: Open a new tab
Ctrl + W: Close the current tab
Ctrl + Shift + T: Reopen the last closed tab
Ctrl + L: Focus on the address bar
Ctrl + F: Find on the page
Ctrl + Shift + N: Open a new incognito/private window
File Explorer
Windows + E: Open File Explorer
Alt + Up Arrow: Go up one level in the directory
F2: Rename selected item
Shift + Delete: Delete selected item permanently (bypass
Recycle Bin)
System Commands
Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open Task Manager
Windows + L: Lock the computer
Windows + R: Open the Run dialog box
Windows + Pause: Open System Properties
Managing Files
 File management involves organizing, storing,
and maintaining digital files on your computer or
storage devices. Effective file management helps you
easily locate, access, and back up your files while
keeping your system clutter-free.
Create a Logical Folder
Structure
Categorize Files: Group similar files into folders (e.g.,
Documents, Photos, Projects).

Use Subfolders: Break down categories into subfolders to

keep things organized.

Consistent Naming: Use clear and consistent naming

conventions for files and folders.
Regularly Back Up Files
Cloud Storage: Use cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox,
or OneDrive for automatic backups.

External Drives: Regularly copy important files to an external

hard drive.

Backup Schedule: Set a regular backup schedule (daily,

weekly) depending on how often files change.
Delete Unnecessary Files
Routine Cleaning: Periodically go through and delete old or
unused files.

Temporary Files: Clear out temporary files and downloads

that are no longer needed.

Duplicate Files: Use tools to find and delete duplicate files.

Use File Management Tools
File Explorer: Get familiar with your operating system's file
manager.

Search Tools: Use search functions to quickly find files by

name, type, or content.

Tagging and Metadata: Use tags or metadata to make files

easier to find.
Security and Permissions
Password Protection: Encrypt or password-protect sensitive
files.

User Permissions: Set permissions to control who can access

or modify files.
Version Control
Track Changes: Use version control for important documents
to keep track of changes.

Naming Versions: Add version numbers or dates to filenames

to distinguish different drafts or versions.
Archive Old Files
Archive Files: Move old, infrequently used files to an archive
folder or separate storage device.

Compressed Files: Use zip or other compression formats to

save space when archiving.
Utilize Shortcuts and Links
Create Shortcuts: Use shortcuts for quick access to frequently
used files or folders.

Symbolic Links: On some systems, create symbolic links to

reference files in multiple locations without duplication.
Mastering the Web
Using Search Engines
Effectively
 Advanced Search Techniques:

Quotation Marks (“ “) : Use them to search for an

exact phrase. Ex. “artificial intelligence trends”

Minus Sign (-): Exclude a word from your

search. Ex. Jaguar -car
Advanced Search
Techniques:
Site-Specific Search (site): Search within a specific
website. Ex. site:Wikipedia.org quantom mechanics

File Type Search (filetype): Find specific file types like

PDFs, DOCs. Ex. Climate change filetype:pdf

Wildcard (*): Use it as a placeholder for any unknown term or

word. Ex. Best* in 2024
Advanced Search
Techniques:
Evaluating Sources:

Credibility: Check the author's credentials and the

website’s reputation.

Relevance: Ensure the content is up-to-date and relevant

to your needs.

Bias: Be aware of any potential bias in the source, and

cross-check with other reliable sources.
Social Media Mastery
Understanding Different Platforms

Facebook: Ideal for community building and sharing a wide

variety of content
Twitter (X): Great for real-time updates, news, and engaging in
brief conversations.
LinkedIn: Professional networking, industry news, and
showcasing expertise.
Instagram: Focused on visual content, useful for brand building
and personal branding.
Staying Safe and Secure
Online
Privacy Settings: Regularly review and update
privacy settings on social media platforms.

Password Management: Use strong, unique

passwords for each platform and consider using a
password manager.

Be Wary of Scams: Be cautious of phishing

attempts, too-good-to-be-true offers, and suspicious links.