#msoffice2026

1. The Core Components (Hardware)

If a computer were a kitchen, these would be the appliances and the chef:

CPU (Central Processing Unit): The "brain." It performs all the calculations and follows instructions.

RAM (Random Access Memory): The "short-term memory." It holds the data the computer is currently using so it can be accessed quickly.

Storage (SSD or HDD): The "long-term memory." This is where your photos, files, and programs live even when the power is off.

Motherboard: The "nervous system." It’s the main circuit board that connects all the other parts together.

2. Input and Output (I/O)

This is how you talk to the computer and how it talks back to you. Type Purpose Examples Input Sending data into the Keyboard, Mouse, Microphone, Touchscreen Output Getting data out of the computer Monitor (Screen), Speakers, Printer, Export to Sheets

3. The Software Layers

Hardware is just expensive metal and plastic without software to tell it what to do.

Operating System (OS): The "boss" software. Examples include Windows, macOS, Linux, or Android. It manages the hardware and lets other apps run.

Applications (Apps): Specific programs you use to get things done, like a web browser (Chrome), a word processor (Word), or a game.

4. How it Works (The Cycle)

Computers generally follow a simple four-step process called the "information processing cycle":

Input: You type a letter on the keyboard.

Processing: The CPU determines which letter you pressed and how it should look in your font.

Storage: You click "Save," and the computer writes that letter to the SSD.

Output: The letter appears on your screen.