1. Software Basics

2. Software Defined… • Programs that provide instructions to the computer about what to do with the input (keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone) • Example, when using the keyboard to enter data, the word processing software displays what you type.

3. Commands • Software also responds to commands either by clicking a button or pressing special keys on the keyboard. • Example: clicking the print button

4. Software Interacts and Shares Data • Software also shares data with other software. When you change data in an excel spreadsheet, the table it's "attached" to in word, also changes. • Shark Tank!

5. Productivity Software • Office 2007 is an example of productivity software or application software. We can accomplish a variety of tasks using this type of software.

6. Anti-Virus Software • Norton • AVG-Free • Removes spyware and viruses

7. Filtering Software • Blocks malware and spyware. • Blocks scams.

8. Process for creating software

9. Step 1: Planning • What is the goal of the software?

10. Step 2: Programming • Computer instructions must be written in a language that can be understood by the computer.

11. Example of computer code

12. Step 3: Debugging • Software is programmed by people who are not perfect which can cause the program to not work properly. • Simple mistakes may be caught by an internal error checker in the programming language. • Other times, the software may need to be debugged .

13. Step 4: Beta Review • Programmers review the first version of the software called "alpha version." • Then it's released a small group of users and this is the "beta version." • Once the software is ready for release and sent to retail chains for mass distribution it's called the "gold version."

14. Step 5: Help! • Instruction and help manuals are written. • Now provided on CDs.