Why doesn't your book explain all the Windows programs on my computer?
Somebody recently e-mailed me this suggestion about Windows XP For Dummies:
"My Windows XP computer does not match what's on screen in
your book, some of the explanations are not even close. That's very
frustrating for a new user. Research more of the programs. More
pictures or simple explanations would be helpful, also."
That's a good suggestion, but I don't know if they'll like hearing this
response. See, most computer manufacturers place lots
of third-party programs onto the Windows XP computers they sell. And
since most Windows programs look very similar, it's often difficult to
tell whether or not these programs are part of Windows XP.For instance, the program Microsoft "Works" often comes bundled onto new computers. Some computers come with Microsoft "Office" preinstalled, as well. Microsoft "Money" is another popular one. (Microsoft gives special discounts to computer merchants who load their computers with Microsoft software.)
Since these separate programs aren't part of Windows XP, I didn't cover them in Windows XP For Dummies. However, other books cover these programs exclusively. Here's where to locate books written specifically about these programs: Feel free to browse through these books online. If you spot one that looks good to you, you may buy it online. Or, just write down its author and title; your local bookstore will be happy to order it if they don't carry it.