Start!: The No Nonsense Guide to Windows XP (Consumer)

Rating:
Summary: No-Nonsense Guide to Windows XP Delivers!
Review: With all of the complexities involved with using and interacting with a personal computer, wading through a thick technical book isn't high on my list. So it's nice to have a simple reference for a light read or an occasional lookup. Let's head "under the covers" of "Start! The no nonsense guide to Windows XP" to see if it delivers that.

Short chapters with names such as Acquaint, Customize Windows XP, Connect, Games, and Enhance Windows XP offer simple, straightforward explanations, practical advice, and tips. You can work through the chapters in order, or skip around, reference-style. There are ample screen shots.

The logical organization of each chapter makes it easy to focus on a particular topic or task. For example, the chapter called Working with Windows includes information and procedures on running and installing programs, using the start menu, working with your desktop, and adding equipment.

Since Windows XP includes e-mail and Internet programs, the "Connect" chapter explains the purpose of an Internet service provider [ISP], then walks you through the process of accessing and navigating the Internet, as well as handling e-mail and using newsgroups. There's even a chapter entitled "Have Fun" that digs into the multimedia and lighter side of Windows, exploring playing games and music, listening to Internet radio, and working with digital photos.

One of my favorite areas of the book is a six-page appendix listing all of the keyboard shortcuts available in Windows XP, organized by function. Especially for readers new to PC's or new to Windows XP, the chapter called "Enhance Windows XP" provides a concise listing of important maintenance items such as hard disk maintenance, data backup and restore, task scheduling, and importantly, keeping Windows updated. User account creation is introduced, however you'll need to look elsewhere if you're looking for narrative about sophisticated user account management.

A bonus area called "Power Toys" explains how to find and download many tools available from Microsoft for Windows XP. While unsupported, they are built by Microsoft developers and add fun and functionality to your use of Windows. Finally, the book also includes a very comprehensive glossary of PC and Windows XP terms.

Emerging from the book's covers, I conclude that at around 200 pages and a retail price of [$$], this book won't put a dent in your shoulder -- or your wallet. Because's it simply organized with short, readable chapters, it's easy to pick up and put down. The author, Wallace Wang, both a stand-up comedian and the author of many computer books, writes in a simple, straightforward style. As he states, "It's about making your computer do something useful for you...". And this book helps you do just that.