What is intelligence?

All but the simplest human behaviour is ascribed to intelligence, while even the most complicated insect behaviour is usually not taken as an indication of intelligence. What is the difference? Consider the behaviour of the digger wasp, Sphex ichneumoneus. When the female wasp returns to her burrow with food, she first deposits it on the threshold, checks for intruders inside her burrow, and only then, if the coast is clear, carries her food inside. The real nature of the wasp’s instinctual behaviour is revealed if the food is moved a few inches away from the entrance to her burrow while she is inside: on emerging, she will repeat the whole procedure as often as the food is displaced. Intelligence—conspicuously absent in the case of Sphex—must include the ability to adapt to new circumstances.

 Ai

artificial intelligence (AI), the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings. The term is frequently applied to the project of developing systems endowed with the intellectual processes characteristic of humans, such as the ability to reason, discover meaning, generalize, or learn from past experience. Since the development of the digital computer in the 1940s, it has been demonstrated that computers can be programmed to carry out very complex tasks—such as discovering proofs for mathematical theorems or playing chess—with great proficiency. Still, despite continuing advances in computer processing speed and memory capacity, there are as yet no programs that can match full human flexibility over wider domains or in tasks requiring much everyday knowledge. On the other hand, some programs have attained the performance levels of human experts and professionals in performing certain specific tasks, so that artificial intelligence in this limited sense is found in applications as diverse as medical diagnosis, computer search engines, voice or handwriting recognition, and chatbots.

 

General Tricks

Windows Power User Menu You can open a quick list of common power user destinations in Windows by right-clicking the bottom left of the start button on Windows 8 onwards, which opens a context menu with shortcuts to power options, the event viewer, device manager, and so on. This menu is also accessible by pressing the Windows key + X.

Bring back a closed tab We have dedicated a section to web browsing further down below, but this one is too useful to be missed. Accidentally closed a tab? Simply press Ctrl + Shift + T to reopen the most recently closed tab and get back to what you were doing (Cmd + Shift + T on Macs).

Reduce the number of programs running at startup If your PC is taking too long to boot, it's probably because you have far too many programs running at startup. It's easy to reduce these and it will make your PC launch noticeably faster. Make sure you research what you are turning off as some processes might be needed by third-party programs you have installed.

 

5 Trends In Computer Science Research

There’s never been a brighter outlook for young computer science students than today. As these recent stats show, computer science graduates have some of the highest starting salaries out there and are in such high demand that they can afford to be picky about the type of job and industry they opt for.And it’s not hard to see why. Technology has been growing so exponentially over recent years, there has been a steadily increasing demand for bright graduates to come in and help to transform areas ranging from data infrastructure to cyber security. If you are interested in pursuing a career in computer science, it’s important to stay up to date with the latest trends in computer science research, to make an informed choice about where to head next. Check out these five trends storming the tech industry!

1. Artificial intelligence and robotics

With the global robotics industry forecast to be worth US$80 billion by 2024, a large portion of this growth is down to the strength of interest and investment in artificial intelligence (AI) – one of the most controversial and intriguing areas of computer science research. The technology is still in its early stages, but tech giants like Facebook, Google and IBM are investing huge amounts of money and resources into AI research. There’s certainly no shortage of opportunities to develop real-world applications of the technology, and there’s immense scope for break-through moments in this field.

2. Big data analytics

Back in 2012, the Harvard Business Review branded data science the ‘sexiest job’ of the 21 century. Yes, you read that correctly. There has been a surge in demand for experts in this field and doubled efforts on the part of brands and agencies to boost salaries and attract data science talents. From banking to healthcare, big data analytics is everywhere, as companies increasingly attempt to make better use of the enormous datasets they have, in order to personalize and improve their services.

3. Computer-assisted education

The use of computers and software to assist education and/or training, computer-assisted education brings many benefits and has many uses. For students with learning disabilities, for instance, it can provide personalized instruction and enable students to learn at their own pace, freeing the teacher to devote more time to each individual. The field is still growing but promising, with many educators praising its ability to allow students to engage in active, independent and play-based learning.  

4. Bioinformatics

A fascinating application of big data, bioinformatics, or the use of programming and software development to build enormous datasets of biological information for research purposes, carries enormous potential. Linking big pharma companies with software companies, bioinformatics is growing in demand and offers good job prospects for computer science researchers and graduates interested in biology, medical technology, pharmaceuticals and computer information science.  

5. Cyber security

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, cyber security jobs are predicted to grow by 28 percent between 2016 and 2026 – much faster than average for all occupations, and raising concerns about the shortfall in qualified graduates. In February 2015, Barack Obama spoke of the need to “collaborate and explore partnerships that will help develop the best ways to bolster our cyber security.” It’s not hard to understand why he might think so. We live in a hyper-connected world, in which absolutely everything – from banking to dating to governmental infrastructure – is done online. In today’s world, data protection is no longer optional, for either individuals or nations, making this another growing strand of computer science research.

This article was originally published in October 2016. It was updated in April 2019.

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This article was originally published in April 2019 . It was last updated in April 2021

List of basic computer shortcut keys:

• Alt + F--File menu options in the current program.
• Alt + E--Edits options in the current program.
• F1--Universal help (for any sort of program).
• Ctrl + A--Selects all text.
• Ctrl + X--Cuts the selected item.
• Ctrl + Del--Cut selected item.
• Ctrl + C--Copy the selected item.
• Ctrl + Ins-- Copy the selected item.
• Ctrl + V--Paste the selected item.
• Shift + Ins -- Paste the selected item.
• Home -- Takes the user to the beginning of the current line.
• Ctrl + Home--Go to the beginning of the document.
• End -- Go to the end of the current line.
• Ctrl + End -- Go to the end of a document.
• Shift + Home -- Highlight from current position to beginning of the line.
• Shift + End -- Highlight from current position to end of the line.
• Ctrl + (Left arrow) -- Move one word to the left at a time.
• Ctrl + (Right arrow) -- Move one word to the right at a time
• Alt + Tab -- Switch between open applications.
• Alt + Shift + Tab -- Switch backward between open applications.
• Alt + Print Screen -- Create screenshot for the current program.
• Ctrl + Alt + Del -- Reboot/Windows task manager.
• Ctrl + Esc -- Bring up the start menu.
• Alt + Esc -- Switch between applications on the taskbar.
• F2 -- Rename selected icon.
• F3 -- Start find from the desktop.
• F4 -- Open the drive selection when browsing.
• F5 -- Refresh contents.
• Alt + F4 -- Close current open program.
• Ctrl + F4 -- Close window in program.
• Ctrl + Plus Key-- Automatically adjust widths of all columns in Windows Explorer.
• Alt + Enter -- Open properties window of selected icon or program.
• Shift + F10 -- Simulate right-click on selected item.
• Shift + Del -- Delete programs/files permanently.
• Holding Shift During Boot up -- Boot safe mode or bypass system files.
• Holding Shift During Boot up -- When putting in an audio CD, will prevent CD Player from playing.

                     IMPORTENT PART OF IT INCULDE                                   

                                                           CONTENTS 

1. WHAT IS A COMPUTER ............................................................................................................1 

2. Computing Systems .............................................................................................................2-4 

3. Early history of computing ......................................................................................................4 

  3.1. Abacus  ...................................................................................................................................5 

  3.2. Napier’s Bones ........................................................................................................................5 

  3.3. Pascaline ................................................................................................................................5 

  3.4. Jacquard Loom ........................................................................................................................5 

  3.5. Analytical Engine ....................................................................................................................6 

  3.6. First Computer Programmer ....................................................................................................6 

  3.7. Turing Machine & Turing Test ..................................................................................................6 

4. Computer Generations ............................................................................................................6 

  4.1. The First Generation  ...............................................................................................................7 

  4.2. The Second Generation  ..........................................................................................................7 

  4.3. The Third Generation  .............................................................................................................8 

  4.4. The Fourth Generation ............................................................................................................8 

  4.5. The Fifth Generation  ..............................................................................................................9 

5. Computer Hardware Components ...........................................................................................9 

  5.1. Motherboard ..........................................................................................................................9 

  5.2. Expansion slot  ...................................................................................................................... 10 

  5.3. Case Fan ............................................................................................................................... 10 

  5.4. Connection ........................................................................................................................... 11 

  5.5. Heat Sink .............................................................................................................................. 11 

  5.6. P4 ......................................................................................................................................... 11 

  5.7. Coil 12 .................................................................................................................................. 12 

  5.8. Socket .................................................................................................................................. 12 

  5.9. Northbridge  ......................................................................................................................... 12 

  5.10. Southbridge  ......................................................................................................................... 13 

  5.11. Memory slot ......................................................................................................................... 13 

  5.12. IDE ....................................................................................................................................... 13 

  5.13. CMOS ................................................................................................................................... 14 

  5.14. ATX style connector .............................................................................................................. 14 

6. Hardware device can be classified into four distinct categories .............................................. 15 

  6.1. input device Categorized .................................................................................................. 16-17 

  6.2. Processing device .................................................................................................................. 18 

  6.3. Output device ....................................................................................................................... 18 

   6.3.1. softcopy ............................................................................................................................... 18 

   6.3.2. Hardcopy ............................................................................................................................. 19 

  6.4. Memory storage device ......................................................................................................... 20 

   6.4.1.    Primary memory ................................................................................................................ 20 

   6.4.2. Secondary memory .............................................................................................................. 20 

7. Early history Computer software ........................................................................................... 21 

  7.1. First generation .................................................................................................................... 21 

  7.2. The Second Generation ......................................................................................................... 21 

  7.3. The Third Generation ............................................................................................................ 21 

  7.4. Fourth-generation ................................................................................................................. 22 

  7.5. fifth generation ..................................................................................................................... 22 

8. Computer software ............................................................................................................... 22 

  8.1. System Software ................................................................................................................... 23 

   8.1.1. Operating system ................................................................................................................. 23 

   8.1.2. Utility Software .................................................................................................................... 23 

  8.2. Application software ............................................................................................................. 24 

9. Live Ware ............................................................................................................................. 24 

10. References ............................................................................................................................ 26 

 

  

 1. WHAT IS A COMPUTER 

 

 

 

A computer an electronic device operating under the control of instruction stored in its own memory that can accept data (input) Process the data according to specified rules produce information (output) and store the information for future use.  

 

2. Computing Systems 

 

Hardware: – is the tangible part of a computer system. ( physical components of a computer that you can actually touch) 

Ex: keyboard, monitor, central processing unit (CPU), mouse and printer.  

 

Software: – is the non-tangible part that tells the computer how to do its job. It is a set of instructions used to direct the hardware on how to turn data into useful information for people to use. These are programs used by the user to interact with the computer. Ex: Word, Access, Web browser 

 

Liveware: – refer to people who use and operate the computer system, write computer programs, and analyze and design the 

 

 

3. Early history of computing • Originally calculations were computed by humans, whose job title was computers. • These human computers were typically engaged in the calculation of a mathematical expression. • The calculations of this period were specialized and expensive, requiring years of training in mathematics. • The first use of the word "computer" was recorded in 1613, referring to a person who carried out calculations, or computations, and the word continued to be used in that sense until the middle of the 20th century. 

 

3.1. Abacus  

 

The abacus was invented in Babylonia in 2400 B.C. The abacus in the form we are most familiar with was first used in China in around 500 B.C. • It used to perform basic arithmetic operations. multiply, divide and calculate square and cube roots by moving the rods around and placing them in specially constructed boards.  

 

 

3.2. Napier’s Bones 

 

Invented by John Napier in1614. Allowed the operator to multiply, divide and calculate square and cube roots by moving the rods around and placing them in specially constructed boards. 

 

3.3. Pascaline 

 

 

• Invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642. It was its limitation to addition and subtraction. It is too expensive. 

 

 

3.4. Jacquard Loom 

 

• The Jacquard loom is a mechanical loom invented by Joseph-Marie Jacquard in 1881.  It an automatic loom controlled by punched cards. 

 

 

 

 

 

3.5. Analytical Engine 

 

• It an automatic, mechanical calculator designed to tabulate polynomial functions. • Invented by Charles Babbage in 1834 • It is the first mechanical computer. 

 

3.6. First Computer Programmer 

 

• In 1840, Augusta Ada Lovelace suggests to Babbage that he use    the binary system. She writes programs for the Analytical Engine. 

 

3.7. Turing Machine & Turing Test 

 

A Turing Machine is an accepting device which accepts the languages (recursively enumerable set) generated by type 0 grammars. It was invented in 1936 by Alan Turing. The Turing Test is a method of inquiry in artificial intelligence [1, pp. https://brilliant.org/wiki/turing-machines/] 4. Computer Generations 

There are five generations of computer: 

• First generation – 1946 - 1958 

• Second generation – 1959 - 1964 

• Third generation – 1965 - 1970 

• Fourth generation – 1971 - today 

• Fifth generation – Today to future 

 

4.1. The First Generation  

The first computers used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory, and were often enormous, taking up entire rooms. They were very expensive to operate and in addition to using a great deal of electricity, generated a lot of heat, which was often the cause of malfunctions. 4.2. The Second Generation  

Transistors replaced vacuum tubes and ushered in the second generation of computers. One transistor replaced the equivalent of 40 vacuum tubes. Allowing computers to become smaller, faster, cheaper, more energy-efficient and more reliable. Still generated a great deal of heat that can damage the computer. 

 

4.3. The Third Generation  

 The development of the integrated circuit was the hallmark of the third generation of computers. Transistors were miniaturized and placed on silicon chips, called semiconductors, which drastically increased the speed and efficiency of computers. Much smaller and cheaper compare to the second generation computers. It could carry out instructions in billionths of a second. 4.4. The Fourth Generation 

The microprocessor brought the fourth generation of computers, as thousands of integrated circuits were built onto a single silicon chip. As these small computers became more powerful, they could be linked together to form networks, which eventually led to the development of the Internet. Fourth generation computers also saw the development of GUIs, the mouse and handheld devices. 

 4.5. The Fifth Generation  

 Based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Still in development. The use of parallel processing and superconductors is helping to make artificial intelligence a reality. The goal is to develop devices that respond to natural language input and are capable of learning and self-organization. There are some applications, such as voice recognition, that are being used today. 

 

5. Computer Hardware Components 

 Hardware 

 The hardware component of the computer are the physical items of the computer. You can actually touch. The system unit also contains some vital internal hardware component 

Ex: - monitor, system units, mouse etc... 5.1. Motherboard 

The motherboard is the key circuit board holding the essential processing parts of a computer. It allows all the parts of your computer to receive power and communicate with one another. It is usually screwed to the case along its largest face, which could be the bottom or the side of the case depending on the form factor and orientation. The form factor describes the shape and layout of the motherboard. It affects where individual components go and the shape of the computer's case. Attached directly to the motherboard are the CPU, RAM, expansion cards, networking, video, and audio components. 

5.2. Expansion slot 

 

Alternatively known as a bus slot or expansion part, an expiation slot is a connection or part inside a computer  

• AGP- Video card • AMP- Modem • CNR- Modem, Network Card • EISA- SCSI, Network Card • ISA- Network Card, Sound Card, Video Card • PCI- SCSI, Network Card, Sound Card, Video Card • PCI Express- Modem, Sound Card, Video Card, Network Card • VESR- Video card 

 

5.3. Case Fan 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Case fan help to bring cool air into and blow hot air out of the case. More than one fan is often used, and the combination of case fans, power supply fan, heat sinks and CPU coolers comprise the cooling system. 

 5.4. Connection  

A connection is a term that describes the link between a plug or connector in to a part of jack. 

 

5.5. Heat Sink A heatsink is a piece of metal that sits on top of a computer chip such as a CPU and draws power away from components by letting it rise through a set of fins. Its cool processor temperature.   

 

 

5.6. P4 

The P4 connector is a 12V power supply cable used with motherboards that have an Intel Pentium 4 or later processor. Today, the connector is a standard power connector and is used with both Intel and AMD motherboards 

 

 

5.7. Coil  

Short for electromagnetic coil, a coil is conducting wire such as copper shaped in a helical from around an iron core. 

 

 

 

5.8. Socket 

 

When the referring to a processor, a CPU socket or processor socket is a connection that allows a computer processor to connect to are motherboard. A CPU socket also has a lock to prevent CPU movement, and its design helps secure heat sink placement above the CPU. 

 

5.9. Northbridge  

Northbridge is an Intel chipset that communicates with the computer processor and controls interaction with memory, the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus, Level 2 cache, and all Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) activities. Northbridge communicates with the processor using the frontside bus (FSB). 

 

5.10. Southbridge 

Southbridge is a reference to a chipset on a PC motherboard. It is a group of microchips designed for a single function and manufactured as a single unit. This chipset controls or manages input and output (I/O). Examples of I/O interface connections controlled by southbridge are USB, serial, IDE and ISA. These are the slower capabilities of the motherboard. It is located on the northbridge of the PCI bus and is not directly connected to the CPU, but connected to the CPU through the northbridge. 

 

5.11. Memory slot 

A memory slot or RAM slot is what allows computer memory (RAM) chip/stick to be inserted into the computer. Depending on the motherboard, there will usually be 2 to 4 memory slots (sometimes more on high-end motherboards) and are what determine the type of RAM used with the computer. 5.12. IDE 

IDE, an acronym for Integrated Drive Electronics, is a standard type of connection for storage devices in a computer. Generally, IDE refers to the types of cables and ports used to connect some hard drives and optical drives to each other and to the motherboard. 

5.13. CMOS 

 

CMOS (short for complementary metal-oxidesemiconductor) is the term usually used to describe the small amount of memory on a computer motherboard that stores the BIOS settings. Some of these BIOS settings include the system time and date as well as hardware settings. 

 

5.14. ATX style connector  

 

An ATX style connector is a replacement for the older P8 and P9 AT style connector. It is one of the largest connectors inside a computer. It connects a power supply to an ATX style motherboard. 

 

6. Hardware device can be classified into four distinct categories 

 

➢ Input device: - For row data input. ➢ Processing device: - To process row data instruction into information. ➢ Output device: - To disseminate data and information. ➢ Storage device: - For data and information retention. 

6.1. input device Categorized  ❖ Pointing device 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

❖ Game controller  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

❖ Audio input device 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

❖ Bluetooth peripheral  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

❖ Visual and image device

 

 

❖ Network device

 

6.2. Processing device 

It is the stage where row data is transformed into information once data has been processed.   The microprocessor is subdivided into three important units. 

 

6.2.1. The control unit (CU): -computer processor and other components all operation controls this part. 

 

6.2.2. Arithmetic and logical unit (ALU): -ALU is responsible all arithmetic and logical operations. 

 

6.2.3. Register and Cache: - it used to store instructions of the control unit by moving relevant data around during processing. 

 

6.3. Output device 

sub categorized under 6.3.1. softcopy: - ❖ visual display device includes 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

❖ Sound device includes 

 

 

 

 

 

❖ Network input/output includes 

 

❖ USB input/output 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.3.2. Hardcopy: - ❖ Impact printer  Dot matrix & 3D printer ❖ Non-impact printer Inject printer, laser jet printer, Thermal printer 

 

6.4. Memory storage device 

Storage device divided 6.4.1. Primary memory: -  Primary memory is RAM that a processor or computer accesses first or directly. It allows a processor to access running execution applications and services that are temporarily stored in a specific memory location. Primary memory is also known as primary storage or main memory 

 

 

6.4.2. Secondary memory: - Secondary memory is computer memory that is non-volatile and persistent in nature and is not directly accessed by a computer/processor. It allows a user to store data that may be instantly and easily retrieved, transported and used by applications and services. Secondary memory is also known as secondary storage. It divided two part  

 

❖ Internal device: - Hard disk 

❖ External device: -Optical disk, Flash disk 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7. Early history Computer software  

 

7.1. First generation First generation computers relied on machine language, the lowest-level programming language understood by computers, to perform operations,  and they could only solve one problem at a time. Input was based on punched cards and paper tape, and output was displayed on printouts (0 & 1). 

 

7.2. The Second Generation  Second-generation computers moved from cryptic binary machine language to symbolic, or assembly, languages, which allowed programmers to specify instructions in words. Second-generation computers still relied on punched cards for input and printouts for output. These were also the first computers that stored their instructions in their memory, which moved from a magnetic drum to magnetic core technology (high level). 

 

7.3. The Third Generation  

Users interacted with third generation computers through keyboards and monitors and interfaced with an operating system, which allowed the device to run many different applications at one time with a central program that monitored the memory. Computers for the first time became accessible to a mass audience because they were smaller and cheaper than their predecessors. 

 

7.4. Fourth-generation 

Fourth-generation language (4GL), Fourth-generation computer programming language. 4GLs are closer to human language than other high-level languages and are accessible to people without formal training as programmers. They allow multiple common operations to be performed with a single programmer-entered command. They are intended to be easier for users than machine languages (firstgeneration), assembly languages (second-generation), and older highlevel languages (third-generation). 

 

7.5. fifth generation 

The period of fifth generation is 1980-till date. In the fifth generation, VLSI technology became ULSI (Ultra Large-Scale Integration) technology. This generation is based on parallel processing hardware and AI (Artificial Intelligence) software. AI is an emerging branch in computer science, which interprets the means and method of making computers think like human beings. All the high-level languages like C and C++, Java, .Net etc., are used in this generation. 

 

8. Computer software 

Software is a set of programs, which is designed to perform a well-defined function. A program is sequence of instruction written to solve a particular problem. 

There are two types of software ▪ System software  ▪ Application software 

 

8.1. System Software  System software include the programs that are dedicated to managing the computer itself, such as the operating system, file management utilities, and disk operating system (or DOS). The operating system manages the computer hardware resources in addition to application and data. Without system software installed in our computer we would have to type the instruction for everything we wanted to computer do. [2, p. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/System_software] 

 

8.1.1. Operating system An operating system or OS is a software program that enables the computer hardware to communicate and operate with the computer software. Without a computer operating system, a computer and software program would be useless.  

 

➢ OS is the main software program installed in the computer system. That is the intermediate between the user and hardware system. ➢  An OS control the computer and provides and interface so that the user can interact with computer main component 

EX: -LINUX, UNIX, MAC, WINDOWS 

 

8.1.2. Utility Software A utility or software utility is computer system software intended to analyze, configure, monitor, or help maintain a computer. Typically, a utility is smiler than and program in size and maybe included with and operating system or installed severalty. 

 

EX: -Antivirus, Backup software, DirectX, Disk cleanup and Scandisk    

 

  8.2. Application software 

 

Application software product are designed to satisfy a particular need of a particular environment. All software application prepared in the computer lab can come under the category of application software. 

Application software may consist of a single program, such as Microsoft’s notepad for writing and editing a simple text. It may also consist of a collection of programs, often called a software package, which work together to accomplish a text, such as a spreadsheet package.   

EX: - Microsoft office suit software, Adobe photoshop, Payroll software [3, p. quikebase] 

 

9. Live Ware 

 

To complete a task using computer. Software and hardware there must have a person with knowledge for computing, such a person with knowledge of computer software and hardware is called live ware. [4, p. www.computerhope.com] 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

10. References 

 

[1]  https://brilliant.org/wiki/turing-machines/, "turing-machines," 2013. 

[2]  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/System_software, "system software," 2005. 

[3]  https://www.quickbase.com, "Application software," 2017. 

[4]  https://www.computerhope.com/jargon/l/liveware.htm, "liveware.htm," 2017. 

EASY WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR COMPUTER SKILLS*

 

5 FREE AND EASY WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR COMPUTER SKILLS

MARCH 8, 2021 | BY ALISON DOYLE

With technology becoming more and more prevalent in the workplace, it’s more important than ever to have basic computer hardware and software skills. There are some basic computer skills every worker needs to have.

An employer will be looking for computer skills on your resume, and that means you need to be able to know how to use a computer when you’re on the job.

Here are 5 free and easy way to improve your computer skills.

Short on time? Jump down to see some free courses, so you can start learning for free today!

1. Identify what you need to learn.

Most likely, you only have so much free time that you can dedicate to learning a new skill. Accordingly, it’s important to use that time wisely. Whether you’re looking to pivot your career or level up within your current field, analyzing the job description of your ideal position is a great way to identify what skills employers are looking for, as well as the tools you should know how to use.

Tip: The “Requirements” section of a job description is generally a good place to find this information.

Networking is another great way to discover what technical skills other people in your field have, or what software and apps they use on a day-to-day basis. This can be accomplished with a simple question, such as “Have you learned any new skills lately that have helped you in your job?,” or “What’s your favorite software or app that use regularly for work?”

In addition, you can also find much of this information online. If you are a customer service representative, for example, you might search for “customer service software.” Keep an eye out for the specific products that appear in your results. Capterra, a software review company, is another helpful resource for identifying common tools in your trade.

Not sure where to start? The specific skills you need are highly dependent on your position and your field, but you can familiarize yourself with this list of top computer skills to start out. Also review some of the best skills to include on your resume.

2. Start with the basics—and ensure you know how to use a computer.

While this goes without saying, before you learn any specialized technical skills, at the very least you need a fundamental understanding of how to use a computer—ideally, both a Windows or Mac. There are many free resources online. Sites like Lifewire, for example, are very helpful in providing comprehensive tutorials.

These days, it’s pretty common to find free (or affordable) computer training events. Check with your local library, community center or community college to see what they have to offer. In addition, you can take free Mac courses at an Apple store near you.

If you’re working in an office role, consider getting certified in Microsoft Office to improve your skills and add value to your resume.

3. Familiarize yourself with an understanding of how computers (and the Internet) work.

While this goes without saying, before you learn any specialized technical skills, at the very least you need a fundamental understanding of what a computer it is and how it works. In some cases, it can be helpful to learn how the Internet works, too.

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Now, do you need master computer science? Absolutely not. But, having an elementary understanding of how the technology that you use functions provides a strong foundation for future learning. Here is a list of some free online computer skills lessons that you can start with:

• Computer Basics for Absolute Beginners – from GCF Learn Free (Free)
• Internet Basics for Absolute Beginners – from GCF Learn Free (Free)
• Computer Science 101 – from Stanford University  (Free)
• How the Internet Works – from Khan Academy (Free)
• G Suite Training Center (for Google Apps) – from Google (Free)

4. Take a free online or-in person computer course.

There are many free resources available, both offline and online. Be sure to check out offerings in your community, such as at your local library, community center, community college or YMCA. You can also search on sites like Meetup or Eventbrite for educational events or groups. If you live in Los Angeles, New York City or Chicago, CourseHorse is another excellent resource.

If you’d rather learn tech skills for free online, there are plenty of ways to do so! You should be able to search on YouTube for pretty much anything you want to know. If you’re looking for a more formal learning experience, you can find tons of free college-level courses online on sites like Coursera, EdX and Class-Central. You can also find free, introductory courses on sites like Khan Academy, Codecademy, and Free Code Camp.

Tip: Here’s an extensive list of free and low-cost online computer classes you can take to get started.

5. Apply the knowledge and get hands-on practice.

If a job description requests familiarity with a specific tool, try to see if there’s way to get hands-on experience. For example, say a position requires that you know how to use Trello, a project management tool. You could consider ways you might be able to integrate Trello in your current position. If this is not possible, perhaps there’s a case where you could use it in your personal life—like for planning a trip.

Get as creative as possible. Need to learn how to use Google Calendar? Start using it to plan and schedule your families’ appointments and activities. Need to know how to use Skype? Create an account and use it to make a video call with someone you haven’t talked to in awhile.

Alternately, if you are learning a skill like graphic design, web design or development, there are many ways to practice: you can enter contests on 99Designs, or solicit gigs on Fiverr, for example.

If you need to be familiar with a paid tool or software then you cannot gain access to, look to see if that app offers a demo or has any training videos on its website. At the very least, you’ll have a chance to garner a basic familiarity with the structure and functionality of the software

Remember, you should always be honest with an employer about your skills and abilities. Don’t oversell your skills. If you’re lacking a skill that is listed in the job description, you can always mention that it is something you are currently learning (or intend to learn), and emphasize your ability to pick up new skills quickly.

Bonus tip: Does your company offer an education stipend?

Be sure to check if your company offers any stipends for their employees’ professional development. There are a lot of high-quality online learning programs available for relatively low costs – LinkedIn Learning, for example, is a great option.