Introduction to PCs

Lesson 1 • Types of Personal Computers

Distinguish desktops, laptops, tablets, and all-in-ones by form factor and use case. This context anchors all subsequent hardware and software discussions.

Lesson 2 • Software vs. Hardware Concepts

Clarify the distinction between physical components and the programs that run on them. Understanding this boundary prevents confusion when diagnosing problems later.

Lesson 3 • Core Hardware Components Overview

Identify the main physical parts of a PC and their primary functions. Students gain vocabulary needed for every later chapter on setup and troubleshooting.

Lesson 1 • Ergonomics and Workspace Organization

Arrange monitor height, chair position, and peripheral placement for safe, comfortable use. Good ergonomics prevents repetitive strain and supports long-term productivity.

Lesson 2 • Initial Operating System Setup

Complete the out-of-box setup wizard, including language, region, and user account creation. These choices affect system behavior and personalization throughout the course.

Lesson 3 • Powering On for the First Time

Walk through the boot sequence and initial startup screens students will encounter. Recognizing normal startup behavior reduces anxiety and supports early troubleshooting.

Lesson 1 • Managing Windows and Applications

Open, minimize, maximize, resize, and close application windows efficiently. Multitasking with multiple windows is a core productivity skill built upon in later chapters.

Lesson 2 • Using a Mouse and Keyboard Effectively

Practice left-click, right-click, double-click, drag, and scroll actions with precision. Keyboard shortcuts introduced here accelerate every task covered in later chapters.

Lesson 3 • Customizing the Desktop Environment

Adjust wallpaper, display settings, and taskbar preferences to suit individual needs. Personalization reinforces navigation skills and improves daily comfort and efficiency.

Lesson 4 • System Settings and Control Panel

Locate and use system settings to manage sound, display, and user preferences. Familiarity with settings panels is essential for troubleshooting covered in later chapters.

Lesson 1 • File Properties and Extensions

Read file properties, understand common extensions, and change how extensions are displayed. Recognizing file types prevents errors when opening or sharing documents.

Lesson 2 • Copying, Moving, and Deleting Files

Use cut, copy, paste, and delete operations to reorganize files safely. Students distinguish between moving and copying to avoid accidental data loss.

Lesson 3 • Creating and Naming Files and Folders

Create new folders and files, apply consistent naming conventions, and avoid invalid characters. Good naming habits prevent confusion and support efficient searching later.

Lesson 4 • Searching for Files and Folders

Use built-in search tools to locate files by name, type, and date modified. Fast retrieval skills reduce wasted time and support the productivity goals of later chapters.

Lesson 1 • Network Troubleshooting Basics

Apply a step-by-step process to diagnose and resolve common connectivity failures. Students use built-in diagnostic tools before escalating issues to technical support.

Lesson 2 • Using a Web Browser

Navigate websites using address bars, tabs, bookmarks, and browser history. Browser proficiency is a prerequisite for the online communication and research skills ahead.

Lesson 3 • Evaluating Websites and Online Safety

Identify secure sites, recognize phishing indicators, and avoid unsafe downloads. These habits protect students and their organizations from common online threats.

Lesson 4 • How Internet Connections Work

Explain the roles of routers, modems, ISPs, and IP addresses in plain language. This conceptual grounding helps students diagnose connectivity problems in later sections.

Lesson 1 • Spreadsheet Basics

Enter data into cells, apply simple formulas, and format a spreadsheet for readability. Spreadsheet literacy supports data tracking and reporting tasks in professional settings.

Lesson 2 • Email Client Essentials

Compose, send, reply to, and organize emails using a desktop or web-based client. Effective email habits reduce miscommunication and support professional collaboration.

Lesson 3 • Installing and Uninstalling Applications

Download software from trusted sources, run installers, and remove unwanted programs cleanly. Students avoid common installation errors and keep the system uncluttered.

Lesson 4 • Managing Application Updates

Enable automatic updates, manually check for patches, and understand why updates matter. Current software reduces security vulnerabilities addressed in the security chapter.

Lesson 1 • Antivirus and Firewall Configuration

Enable and configure built-in antivirus and firewall tools to block and detect threats. Students run scheduled scans and interpret results without relying on IT support.

Lesson 2 • Creating and Managing Strong Passwords

Construct complex passwords, use a password manager, and enable multi-factor authentication. Strong credentials are the first line of defense for every account students use.

Lesson 3 • Understanding Common PC Threats

Identify viruses, malware, ransomware, and spyware by behavior and impact. Threat awareness motivates the protective measures students implement throughout this chapter.

Lesson 4 • Safe Browsing and Email Habits

Apply rules for identifying suspicious links, attachments, and sender addresses in email. These habits directly reduce the risk of malware infection and data theft.

Lesson 1 • Troubleshooting Software Problems

Apply a systematic approach to crashes, freezes, and error messages using built-in tools. Students document symptoms and solutions to build a personal troubleshooting reference.

Lesson 2 • Monitoring System Performance

Use Task Manager and resource monitors to identify processes consuming excessive CPU or RAM. Performance data guides decisions about upgrades and application management.

Lesson 3 • Backup and Recovery Strategies

Create file backups to external drives and cloud storage, and restore files after loss. A tested backup plan is the ultimate safeguard for all data created throughout the course.

Lesson 4 • Troubleshooting Hardware Issues

Diagnose common hardware failures such as display problems, unrecognized peripherals, and audio faults. Students use Device Manager to check driver status and resolve conflicts.