Computer Skill Basics

Lesson Content

Turning a Computer On and Off

Every computer has a power button, but the location can vary.

• On laptops, the power button is usually near the top-right of the keyboard.
• On desktop computers, the power button is typically on the tower, and the monitor also has its own power button to display the screen.

Understanding Windows

A window is a rectangular area on the screen that allows interaction with a specific program or file.

Common window controls:

• Maximize – The square button next to the red X makes the window full screen.
• Minimize – The line button sends the window to the taskbar. Click the taskbar icon to reopen it.
• Move a window – Click and hold the top bar of the window, then drag it to a new position.

Using the Mouse and Keyboard

The mouse is divided into left and right buttons with a scroll wheel in the middle.

• Clicking selects items on the computer.
• The scroll wheel moves pages up and down when content does not fit on the screen.

The keyboard contains:

• Letters in the center
• Numbers across the top or on the right side
• A space bar at the bottom center
• Function keys (F-keys) on the top row that perform shortcuts depending on the computer.

Understanding the Desktop

Desktop layouts may look different depending on the computer.

Key parts of the desktop:

• Taskbar (bottom bar) – Contains pinned apps, settings, power/sign-out options, and user information.
• Desktop background area – Stores files, apps, and images placed directly on the desktop.
• All open windows and graphics appear within the desktop workspace.

Email Basics

Setting Up an Email Account

Common providers include Gmail, Yahoo, AOL, and Proton.
Steps typically include:

1. Create an account using a first and last name.
2. Enter birthday and gender.
3. Choose or create an email address.
4. Create a password.
5. Add a phone number for verification.
6. Agree to terms and conditions.

Sending an Email

1. Click Compose (usually top-left).
2. Enter the recipient’s address in the To: field.
3. Add a short subject line explaining the purpose.
4. Write the message.
5. Click Send.

Receiving Emails

• The Inbox shows received messages.
• Other folders like Spam or Snoozed may contain filtered messages.

Attaching Files

1. Click the paperclip icon in the compose window.
2. Choose a file from the computer.
3. Click Open to attach it to the message.

Navigating the Internet

Using a Web Browser

Browsers such as Google Chrome, Safari, or Yahoo allow searching the internet.

• Click the search bar.
• Type what you want to find.
• Press Enter to view results.

Example: Using Amazon

1. Go to amazon.com.
2. Search for an item.
3. Scroll through results or filter on the left side.
4. Click an item to view details.
5. Select Add to Cart.
6. Click the cart icon and Proceed to Checkout.
7. Enter shipping and payment information.