Introduction to Computer Operating Systems

The operating system acts as a platform, allowing various applications to run on different devices, much like Android operates on different phone brands.

The mouse and keyboard are essential input devices for interacting with your computer.

The keyboard sends signals to the operating system using individual keys or combinations of keys.

The Escape key cancels or resets the current action within an application. It's like hitting the 'undo' button.

The Num Lock key toggles the numeric keypad between number input and additional functions.

The Control and Alt keys provide shortcuts and additional functionality when used in combination with other keys.

The Start key opens the Windows 10 start menu, offering access to programs, settings, and system information.

The Enter key acts like a mouse click, confirming actions or moving to the next line in applications.

The area of a computer keyboard that is used to enter numbers and symbols.

The combination of two or more keys pressed simultaneously to perform a specific action.

A pointing device that communicates with the computer through its movement and buttons, enabling interaction with the graphical user interface (GUI).

The default action triggered by clicking the left mouse button, most commonly selecting or highlighting items on the screen.

The action triggered by clicking the right mouse button, typically displaying a menu of options related to the object pointed to.

A component of the mouse that allows users to scroll through the vertical contents of a window, similar to turning a physical scroll wheel.

The process of entering a user's credentials (username and password) to gain access to a computer or network.

A procedure for managing user accounts, including assigning unique IDs and passwords, to ensure secure access to the system.

The visual representation of the computer's interface, displaying icons, taskbar and other elements allowing for user interaction.

A visual representation of a program or file that can be opened by clicking on it.

A visual representation of the computer's background, which can be customized with images or settings.

The primary tool for accessing applications, programs, and settings within Windows. It displays icons, system information, and various functions.

A bar at the bottom of the screen displaying running applications, system icons, and the search tool.

A quick access icon allowing you to search for files, programs, and information within the computer.

A tool that allows you to switch between different open windows quickly.

Icons providing quick access to frequently used programs or locations on the computer.

A collection of tools displayed when you select an Application Tab. It categorizes tools.

A set of tools related to a specific action or topic within the application.

A button on the ribbon that performs a specific task.

An area within the application window where you perform your tasks.

The space where you can see and interact with the application you are currently using.

The area at the top of the window that displays the name of the application or document.

To minimize an application to the taskbar, making it disappear from view but still running.

To expand a minimized application from the taskbar to its full size.

This feature displays three options: Sleep, Shut Down, and Restart.

This feature shows all the active applications on your phone screen.

This tool allows you to quickly access often-used features, like Undo and Save.

This feature minimizes the window and places it on the taskbar, making it less visible.

This feature expands the window to take up the entire screen.

This feature removes the window from the desktop, closing the program.

The outer boundary of the window, including the corners, is called the border. It helps define the window's size.

Right-clicking on an object displays a menu with options specific to that object. This menu is called a context menu. To launch a quick access icon on the taskbar, left-click once.

To right-click, use the right mouse button. This displays a menu with actions specific to the element you clicked.

The Start Panel is a centralized location for accessing applications, settings, and system information. You can open it by clicking the Start button.

The 'Most Used' section of the Start Panel displays your recently used applications for quick access.

The 'All Applications' section of the Start Panel lists all installed applications alphabetically.

Auto Arrange Icons will automatically organize all icons on the Desktop in a grid layout, making it easier to find things.

To move an icon on the Desktop, click and hold the left mouse button, drag the icon to its new location, then release the button.

To open a folder or file on the Desktop, right-click on the icon and select 'Open'.