Word Processors

Word Processors

Writing letters, memos, or reports are the ways most people use
computers. They manipulate words and text on a screen to print at
some time later. Computers reduce much of the hardship of typing,
proofreading, and manipulating words. Since computers can store and
recall information so easily and quickly, documents need not be
retyped from scratch just to make corrections or changes. The real
strength of word processing is in this ability to store, retrieve, and
change information. Typing is still necessary (at least, for now) to put
the information into the computer, but once in, you only need to
retype new information. However, word processing is more than just
typing. Features such as search and replace allow users to find a
phrase or word in no time. This becomes more useful as the text
becomes longer.
Word processors usually include different ways to view the text.
Many word processors include the ability to show exactly how the
text will appear on paper when printed. This is called WYSIWYG
(What You See Is What You Get, pronounced “wizzywig”).
WYSIWYG shows bold, italic, underline, and other type style
characteristics on the screen so that users can see what they are
typing. Another feature is the correct display of different typefaces
and format characteristics (margins, indents, super- and sub-scripted
characters, etc.). This allows the user to plan the document and see it
as it will be printed.