There are many programs for working with text documents. But among them there is one that stands apart. This is a program about which everyone who has ever dealt with computer technology has heard. Therefore, the question of what Word is is unlikely to lead a PC user to a dead end.
Some Internet resources incorrectly define a program, calling it a text editor. It is fundamentally wrong. Word is a word processor, that is, an application that not only allows you to type text from the keyboard, but also makes it possible to format it - apply different font styles, line spacing, indentation, and spacing.
Word Versions
The first edition of the program for Windows appeared in 1989. It cost 500 dollars. For the period of almost thirty years of development, the application has been radically modified several times. The first such change was expected by users in early 2007, when Microsoft (the official developer of Word) released a new version of the program.
The main difference between Word 2007 is a new representation of commands and functions. The developers called it the "tape." This interface element has replaced the standard drop-down menu that is typical for most programs. The ribbon is divided into tabs on which controls are concentrated. In addition, a new format, docx, has been used to store created documents.
The Word program, relevant today - is the 2016 version, which appeared at the end of 2015. Improvements touched the interface of the program (appearance) and its functionality, which allowed to increase the productivity of the application in comparison with earlier releases.
Main functions
To understand what Word is, you need to consider the functions of the program. They are conditionally classified into two groups - publicly available and for professional work in the application.
The first category of functions that most users use in their work:
- typing, including its design (assignment of size, type of font, style, color, paragraph parameters);
- checking the spelling of words and the placement of punctuation marks ( misspelled words and places where commas are missing, Word automatically underlines with a wavy line);
- embedding objects in a document (both ordinary drawings and objects from third-party applications);
- typing in the form of lists (numbered, marked) and tables;
- listing of the created document (with a preview).
The second group of functions is used by professionals who know what Word is:
- formatting using styles;
- editing and reviewing using the tools "Notes" and "Corrections";
- creation of names for figures and their numbering inside the document;
- reference list management;
- table of contents;
- work with formulas (including chemical ones by installing additions);
- creation of the same type of documents (function "Merge").
Recommendations
So, what is Word considered. In conclusion, two tips for users who often have to deal with text documents:
- Install the latest version of the program;
- learn new features of the application - they will automate the work.