Unlike other tools that have definite purposes, a computer can do a number of different things, solving an infinite number of problems for an infinite number of people. Just about anything that can be done with words, numbers, information, or communication can be done with a computer. Here's a look at what you can do with this handy book by your side:

The biggest problem with people who are new to the world of computers is that they quickly blame themselves when something goes wrong. It’s not your fault! Computers goof up. Software programs have bugs. Things go wrong, and sometimes they would do so even if you weren’t sitting there at the controls. A good deal of the time, the computer is just acting dumb and PCs For Dummies, 8th Edition, will help you through it all.

Amazon.com Review
Explaining the fundamentals of personal computing to those who would rather read words than look at pictures, PCs for Dummies tells you everything you need to know in order to use an IBM-compatible PC running Windows 98. Dan Gookin's prose is technically astute and fun to read.

This isn't the book for you if you're looking through a computer catalog and wondering what all the jargon means (Buying a Computer for Dummies covers that). Rather, this book will help you when you've gotten the machine into your home and you need to know what to do next. Starting with the process of unpacking the box and plugging in all the cables, this book shows you what to do with your new machine.

After assembly is out of the way, Gookin shows you how to get around in Windows 98 (and Windows 95, which is almost identical). He explains concepts like files, directories, and applications, and frequently explains the exact procedures involved in common tasks like adjusting screen resolution. Once you've heard all about the basics, Gookin goes on to explain modem configuration, printer problems, productivity software, and a fair amount about Internet use. --David Wall