• Wants to explore computers for the first time
• Has a PC that uses Microsoft Windows 98 or higher as the operating system
• Uses a computer, but is in the dark about all it can do

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:

• Recognize the basic parts of computer hardware
• Understand what software is and how it can work for you
• Get to know the Windows operating system
• Work with folders and files efficiently
• Figure out how to use a mouse and keyboard
• Work with printers, scanners, and digital cameras
• Explore the Internet and use e-mail
• Deal with scary system problems like viruses
• Troubleshoot your PC without panic

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.