Computer Basics & MS Office Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Computers

Objective: Understand the basic concepts of computers, their components, and functions.

1. What is a Computer?

   • Definition and types of computers
   • Evolution of computers
   • Computer systems: Hardware and Software

2. Basic Computer Hardware

   • Input devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner
   • Output devices: Monitor, Printer, Speakers
   • Central Processing Unit (CPU) and its components: Motherboard, RAM, Hard Disk, etc.
   • Storage devices: Hard drives, Flash drives, Optical drives, etc.

3. Operating Systems

   • Introduction to Operating Systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)
   • Basic functions of an Operating System
   • File Management: Creating, saving, and organizing files

4. Basic Computer Terminology

   • Binary code, software, hardware, files, folders, and more
   • Understanding common computer terms

Module 2: Microsoft Windows Operating System

Objective: Learn the essential features of the Windows Operating System.

1. Navigating the Desktop

   • Desktop, Taskbar, Start Menu
   • Shortcuts and icons
   • Windows Explorer/File Explorer for file management

2. File Management

   • Creating, saving, and organizing files and folders
   • Copy, move, and delete files
   • Search for files using File Explorer

3. Basic System Settings

   • Personalizing Windows (background, themes)
   • Setting up printers, audio, display settings
   • Basic troubleshooting (task manager, system restore)

4. Introduction to Control Panel and Settings App

   • Managing system devices, updates, and security settings

Module 3: Microsoft Word

Objective: Master the fundamentals of word processing using Microsoft Word.

1. Introduction to Microsoft Word

   • What is Word and its interface
   • Creating, opening, and saving documents
   • Understanding the Ribbon and Quick Access Toolbar

2. Basic Document Formatting

   • Fonts: changing style, size, and color
   • Paragraph formatting: alignment, line spacing, and indentation
   • Using Styles for consistency

3. Editing and Proofreading Tools

   • Cut, copy, paste, and undo
   • Spelling and grammar check
   • Find and Replace function

4. Page Layout and Design

   • Adjusting margins, orientation, and page size
   • Inserting headers, footers, and page numbers
   • Using bullet points, numbered lists, and tables

5. Inserting Graphics and Objects

   • Inserting pictures, shapes, and SmartArt
   • Inserting hyperlinks and tables

Module 4: Microsoft Excel

Objective: Learn to create and manage spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel.

1. Introduction to Microsoft Excel

   • Excel interface and workbook structure
   • Understanding rows, columns, cells, and ranges

2. Basic Excel Functions

   • Entering and editing data (text, numbers, dates)
   • Basic formulas (SUM, AVERAGE, MIN, MAX, etc.)
   • Using AutoFill and basic cell references

3. Data Formatting

   • Formatting numbers, dates, and text
   • Using colors, borders, and cell styles
   • Formatting cells for currency, percentages, etc.

4. Working with Formulas and Functions

   • Creating simple and complex formulas
   • Introduction to functions like COUNT, IF, VLOOKUP

5. Charts and Graphs

   • Creating and formatting charts (bar, line, pie, etc.)
   • Understanding chart data and design options

6. Data Sorting and Filtering

   • Sorting data by columns
   • Using filters to display specific data

Module 5: Microsoft PowerPoint

Objective: Learn how to create dynamic presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint.

1. Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint

   • PowerPoint interface and workspace
   • Creating and saving presentations
   • Understanding slides, themes, and layouts

2. Text and Object Insertion

   • Inserting text boxes, images, and shapes
   • Adding tables, charts, and SmartArt
   • Working with multimedia: audio and video

3. Slide Transitions and Animations

   • Applying slide transitions for visual effects
   • Animating text and objects within slides
   • Customizing animation timings and sequence

4. Designing Presentations

   • Using Slide Master for consistent design
   • Working with themes and background designs
   • Adding and customizing logos and branding elements

5. Presentation Tips and Delivery

   • Preparing and practicing the presentation
   • Using presenter view and slide show options
   • Tips for effective communication during presentations

Module 6: Microsoft Outlook (Optional)

Objective: Learn how to use Microsoft Outlook for email, calendar, and task management.

1. Introduction to Microsoft Outlook

   • Setting up an email account in Outlook
   • Composing, sending, and organizing emails
   • Using folders, categories, and flags for email management

2. Calendar and Scheduling

   • Creating appointments, meetings, and events
   • Setting reminders and recurring events
   • Sharing calendars with others

3. Task Management

   • Creating and managing tasks and to-do lists
   • Using flags and priority settings for tasks

Course Outcome

By the end of this course, you will:

• Be comfortable using a computer for everyday tasks
• Have practical knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Be able to create professional documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
• Have a strong foundation for both personal and professional use of technology

Target Audience:
This course is ideal for beginners or individuals looking to improve their computer and MS Office skills. It is designed for those who wish to gain proficiency in essential office applications and basic computer functions for personal, academic, or career purposes.