9.
Block Operations.
The capability to perform block operations is one of the most useful
features of text management software. A block can be as small as a single
character or as large as an entire document. You use block operations to
delete text, move text, and copy text.
In some word processors you can
even move blocks of text from one file to another. This block operation
is called an external copy.
a. In general, the block operation requires you to move the cursor to
the beginning of the text to block.
If you are using WordPerfect, you
then press the Alt-F4 function key to turn on the block option. Next, you
move the cursor to the end of the text you wish to block and press the
Ctrl-F4 function key to choose what block operation to perform (i.e.,
move, copy, delete).
In some word processors you may have to depress
another function key at this time.
b. Another application of block operations is to format (change or
assign attributes) blocks of text such as paragraphs.
The following
paragraphs describe some common paragraph formats.
(1) Centering text. You can center a line or a line of text with a
few key strokes. In WordPerfect for example, you move the cursor to the
first character in the line of text to be centered.
Then, press the
Shift-F6 function key and the computer executes the command.
(2) Justifying text. A paragraph of justified text is one in which
both the left and right margins are flush (even). Appendix C provides an
example of a justified paragraph.
Text paragraphs are normally left
flush. This paragraph is left justified. With some word processors you
can justify either the left margin, the right margin, or both.
c. Summary. Word processing programs provide you, the user, with the
ability to create a wide variety of documents from letters to entire
manuals.
They include such features as spell checking, automatic
pagination, and numerous other features including the ability to import
graphics directly into the document for printing.
Just as with hand
lettering, it takes practice and training to become a proficient user.
10. File Types.
The last topic in this lesson is file types.
Data can be stored in the
computer in many different ways.
However, not all software can use all
the different types of files. Some software
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