Different Versions of Works

Microsoft sells several different versions of Works. Which version you have installed on your PC depends on what the PC manufacturer chose.

Basic Works

The most basic version of Microsoft Works is a suite of five basic applications, all tied together by an interface called the Task Launcher (discussed later in this chapter). The key components of Works are

• Works Word Processor A simple word processing program you can use to write letters, memos, and notes.

• Works Spreadsheet A simple spreadsheet program that lets you enter rows and columns of numbers and other data, and then performs basic calculations and analysis on those numbers.

• Works Database A simple database program that functions more-or-less like a giant electronic filing cabinet. (Learn more in Chapter 15, "Working with a Database.")

• Works Calendar A schedule management program.

• Address Book An all-purpose contact manager you can use to store names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

Works with Word

Some versions of Works take out the Works Word Processor and substitute the more powerful Microsoft Word program. All the other applications are the same, you just have Word instead of the Works Word Processor.

note

Learn more about Microsoft Word in Chapter 13, "Working with Words."

Works Suite

Another popular version of Works is called Microsoft Works Suite. Works Suite takes the basic Microsoft Works program and supplements it with a variety of other software programs, all tied together by the Task Launcher. The programs that Microsoft packages in Works Suite differ from year to year, but typically include

• Microsoft Money A personal finance program that lets you write checks and manage your banking and investment accounts. (Learn more in Chapter 17, "Managing Your Finances.")

• Microsoft Picture It! Photo A graphics program that lets you edit and manage your digital photos.

• Microsoft Streets & Trips Used to generate maps and driving directions.

• Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia A first-class electronic encyclopedia.

Of course, you'll still get the basic Works applications, including Works Spreadsheet, Works Database, Works Calendar, Address Book, and the Microsoft Word word processor.