Word Processors

The roots of word processing can be traced to the early text editors. Text editors were invented by computer programmers to make revising computer programs less cumbersome and to minimize the need for retyping. The early text editors were awkward to use and required special commands to add, delete, or change the text of the computer program. When computers became more powerful, the text editor evolved and its potential for the office environment was quickly recognized.

Although a typewriter and a computer-based word processor with a CRT and keyboard initially look very much alike, they are totally different. The most obvious difference is that the word processor does not give you a hard copy as you go along; to make one, you must command the computer to print the document first. The other differences all tip the scale in favor of the word processor. It is very easy to add, delete, or modify text in your document. All changes take place on the screen, and only when you are satisfied with the document do you print it. Formatting is very easy with a word processor. For example, there is no need to use the spacebar to line up or indent text; facilities are included that will allow you to do this. Changing fonts (the appearance of the characters) is another option that is only a few keystrokes away. Bold text, underline, italics, large or small text all are a snap. Graphs and images can be included in the text, as well as mathematical formulas, tables, and other objects. Various tools are typically included with the word processor: spell-checkers, thesaurus, grammar checkers, and different language modules. Facilities for mailing lists, printing labels and envelopes, or customizing the "look and feel" of the word processor to your needs or preferences are universally included. The latest generation of word processors include features that automate common tasks with preconfigured templates; other new features include boilerplate letters, facilities that automatically correct typing errors as you go along, and "drag and drop" editing.

Almost all word processing software currently commercially available presents the user with a screen that supports "what you see is what you get" (WYSIWYG). This requires a graphical operating environment and the necessary hardware (you need a rather powerful computer) to support this. Text-based word processors are still commercially available, but the text mode does not offer the WYSIWYG capabilities. To see your final product you need to print the document, or switch to a graphics mode for viewing. These text-mode word processors are destined to be replaced with their more powerful graphical counterparts within the next few years.

Popular commercial word processing software include Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, Ami Pro, and Pagemaker. The products are available for different hardware platforms and with comparable features

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