• Unit 1: Getting Started with Microsoft Word and Google Docs

    In this unit, we discuss the basic on-screen elements of Microsoft Word and Google Docs. We explore the toolbars, menus, commands, and taskbars. Toolbars and menus are located at the top of the screen and list options that allow you to insert, view, or change the layout of a document. Each menu option lists different commands that let you format, save, and print documents. We also discuss the Quick Access Toolbar and learn how to add and delete commands. As you go through this unit, open up your version of Microsoft Word or Google Docs and follow along with the tutorials. This will help you learn as you explore the window and menu environment.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 1 hour.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • open documents in Microsoft Word and Google Docs;
      • identify the parts of documents created in Microsoft Word and Google Docs;
      • identify each of the menu elements in Microsoft Word and Google Docs; and
      • identify and describe important commands in Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

    • 1.1: Microsoft Word Window and Menu Environment

      Microsoft Word is a popular word processing program that is part of the Microsoft Office Suite. Many businesses use it to create, edit, format, and organize documents.

      • How to Open a Microsoft Word Document Page

        Watch this introductory video to learn how to open a new document, insert text, name your document, use spell check, center your text, change your font, and use the basic navigation tools in Microsoft Word.

      • Microsoft Word Layout Basics Page

        Watch this video to explore the Microsoft Word interface, such as the title bar, the task bar, ribbon display options, and the quick access toolbar. The presenter also shows how to maximize and minmize the windows in your screen space.

      • Microsoft Word's Quick Access Toolbar Page

        Watch this video to learn how to use Microsoft Word's Quick Access toolbar to easily perform common commands.

    • 1.2: Google Docs Window and Menu Environment

      Google Docs is a free web-based word processor offered by Google. Many businesses use it to create, edit, and format documents. Google Docs are especially easy to share online and to collaborate with colleagues. You can access them from anywhere, view and restore older versions of documents if necessary, and allow several users to edit at the same time.

      • How to Open a Google Docs Document Page

        Watch this brief video for a quick overview of how to open and create a new Google Docs document.

      • Google Docs Menu Bar Page

        This video presents some different commands on the Google Docs toolbar. Note that the version of Google Docs in this video will look different than your version, but the principles are the same.