FACILITATING AND LEARNING MATERIAL FOR

OPERATING SYSTEM

This facilitating and learning material covers all the Learning Outcomes
for Operating System for National Certificate I

LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Demonstrate Knowledge of Operating System
2. Demonstrate Knowledge of the Microsoft Windows Operating System
3. Demonstrate Skills in File Management for Microsoft Windows Operating System
4. Demonstrate Skills in Running Common Microsoft Windows Operating System Tasks

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5. Demonstrate Skills in Managing Microsoft Windows Operating System Settings

Table of Contents
LEARNING OUTCOMES..........................................................................................................................1
ICONS AND THEIR MEANINGS........................................................................................3
LO 1: Demonstrate knowledge of Operating Systems.........................................................................4
PC (a) Explain Operating System..........................................................................................4
PC (b) Explain the types of Operation System.......................................................................4
PC (c) Explain the characteristics of Operating System........................................................5
PC (d) Explain the basic functions of an Operating System..................................................6
Self-Assessment 1..................................................................................................................................8
LO 2: Demonstrate knowledge of Microsoft Windows Operating System..........................................10
PC (a) Explain Microsoft Windows Operating System and identify the versions...............10
PC (c) Explain the basic features of Microsoft Windows Operating System.......................11
PC (d) Describe parts of the Microsoft Windows desktop environment..............................12
Self-Assessment 2................................................................................................................................15
LO 3: Demonstrate Skills in File Management for Microsoft Windows...............................................16
PC (a) Distinguish between a File and a Folder in Microsoft Windows..............................16
PC (b) Identify features of Windows File Explorer in Microsoft Windows........................16
PC (c) Explain the functions of the Parts of the Windows File Explorer in Microsoft
Windows...............................................................................................................................17
PC (d) Open a File and Folder in Microsoft Windows.........................................................18
PC (e) Rename File and Folder in Microsoft Windows.......................................................21
Self-Assessment 3................................................................................................................................23
LO 4: Demonstrate Skills in Running Common Microsoft Windows Tasks...........................................24
PC(a). Describe the Menu Bar in typical Microsoft Windows Application.........................24
PC(b). Explain basic actions on the Microsoft Windows clipboard....................................25
PC (c) Perform basic actions on the Microsoft Windows clipboard....................................26
Self-Assessment 4................................................................................................................................28
LO 5: Demonstrate Skills in Managing Microsoft Windows Settings...................................................30
PC (a) Explain User Account in Microsoft Windows..........................................................30
PC (b) Explain types of User Account in Microsoft Windows............................................30
PC (c) Create New User Accounts in Microsoft Windows..................................................30
PC (d) Configure New User Account...................................................................................31
PC (e) Practice how to Switch User Account for a defined Microsoft Windows Version.. .31
Self-Assessment 5................................................................................................................................33

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Introduction and Preliminary Note
In this unit we will focus on the Operating Systems, Microsoft Windows Operating System,
file management for Microsoft Windows Operating System, running Common Microsoft
Windows Operating System Tasks and Managing Microsoft Windows Operating System
Settings.
This learning material should be used with the unit specification given. The unit specification
will guide you on the standards stated with all the range statement. You should also be
guided by the evidence requirements so that your learning is relevant to the required
standards and scope.
This learning material has been written to encourage you to work on your own. It’s full of
activities that will help you to work independently and to make decisions concerning how
you will approach a task in this unit. Follow the instructions and the steps indicated in this
learning material and work as independently as possible.
The next page shows the symbols (icons) that will be used frequently in this material. It also
gives the meaning of the icons, so that any time you see the icon, you will understand what it
means. Please feel free to ask your facilitator any question you have as you read the material.

ICONS AND THEIR MEANINGS

It is time to know some of the icons that you will see in this learning material. The meaning
of each icon is provided Table 1. You will come across these icons in the material, and you
should know what each of them represents. Carefully observe the icons and their meanings.

# Icon Meaning

1 Learning Outcome

4.
Self- Assessment

Table 1: Icons and their meanings

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Congratulation! For going through this preliminary section on the icons and their meanings.
We will next look at the various fragments that make up this unit, starting with activities
under LO 1.

LO 1: Demonstrate knowledge of Operating Systems

This LO is developed to help you acquire knowledge in Operating Systems. To achieve
this, we will go through PCs (a) – (d).

PC (a) Explain Operating System

An operating system is a program on which application programs are executed and acts as a
communication bridge (interface) between the user and the computer hardware. The main
task an operating system carries out is the allocation of resources and services, such as the
allocation of memory, devices, processors, and information. The operating system also
includes programs to manage these resources, such as a traffic controller, a scheduler,
a memory management module, I/O programs, and a file system.

Operating System is a communication channel between the computer hardware and the user.
It works as an intermediate between System Hardware and End-User. Operating System
handles the following responsibilities:

 It controls all the computer resources.

 It provides valuable services to user programs.
 It coordinates the execution of user programs.
 It provides resources for user programs.
 It provides an interface (virtual machine) to the user.
 It hides the complexity of software.
 It supports multiple execution modes.
 It monitors the execution of user programs to prevent errors.

PC (b) Explain the types of Operation System

Microsoft Windows Operating System:
Microsoft Windows operating system is a specific family of operating
systems developed by Microsoft for personal computers and tablets.
It features a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows you to interact
with your device using a mouse, keyboard, touch screen, or voice

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commands. The latest version of Windows is Windows 11, which was released in October
2021

Apple MAC Operating System:

Apple Mac Operating System is an operating system (OS) designed by
Apple Inc. to run the company’s Macintosh line of personal computers
(PCs). It is a graphical user interface (GUI) based OS that was introduced
in 1984. It has since been released as multiple different versions, such as
macOS, which is the current OS for Macs. Apple also has other operating
systems for its various devices, such as iOS, iPad OS, watch OS, tv OS,
and vision OS.

Unix:
UNIX is an operating system which was first developed in the 1960s,
and has been under constant development ever since. It is a stable,
multi-user, multi-tasking system for servers, desktops and laptops.

Linux:
Linux is a Unix-like, open source and community-developed operating system
(OS) for computers, servers, mainframes, mobile devices and embedded
devices. It is supported on almost every major computer platform, including
x86, ARM and SPARC, making it one of the most widely supported operating
systems.

Android OS:
Android OS is a Linux-based mobile operating system that primarily runs
on smartphones and tablets. The Android platform includes an operating
system based upon the Linux kernel, a GUI, a web browser and end-user
applications that can be downloaded.

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PC (c) Explain the characteristics of Operating System
An operating system (OS) is a software program that serves as an intermediary between
computer hardware and user applications. It manages hardware resources, provides a user
interface, and allows software applications to interact with the hardware. The characteristics
of an operating system are as follows:
Virtualization: Operating systems can provide Virtualization capabilities, allowing multiple
operating systems or instances of an operating system to run on a single physical machine.
This can improve resource utilization and provide isolation between different operating
systems or applications.

Networking: Operating systems provide networking capabilities, allowing the computer

system to connect to other systems and devices over a network. This can include features
such as network protocols, network interfaces, and network security.

Scheduling: Operating systems provide scheduling algorithms that determine the order in
which tasks are executed on the system. These algorithms prioritize tasks based on their
resource requirements and other factors to optimize system performance.

Inter-process Communication: Operating systems provide mechanisms for applications to

communicate with each other, allowing them to share data and coordinate their activities.

Performance Monitoring: Operating systems provide tools for monitoring system

performance, including CPU usage, memory usage, disk usage, and network activity. This
can help identify performance bottlenecks and optimize system performance.
Backup and Recovery: Operating systems provide backup and recovery mechanisms to
protect data in the event of system failure or data loss.

Debugging: Operating systems provide debugging tools that allow developers to identify
and fix software bugs and other issues in the system.

PC (d) Explain the basic functions of an Operating System

An operating system (OS) is a fundamental software component that serves as an interface
between computer hardware and user applications. It provides essential functions to manage

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and control hardware resources, facilitate user interactions, and ensure efficient and secure
operation of the computer system. The basic functions of an operating system include:
Resource allocation: The operating system allocates memory, CPU time, and other
resources to programs running on the computer. This ensures that no program uses more
resources than it needs and that all programs have access to the resources they need to run.

File management: The operating system keeps track of files and folders on the disk and
allows users to access them. This includes creating, deleting, moving, and copying files.
Process management: The operating system keeps track of all the programs that are running
on the computer and ensures that they do not interfere with each other. This includes
scheduling the execution of programs and handling interrupts.

Device management: The operating system interacts with hardware devices such as the
keyboard, mouse, and printer. This includes detecting and installing new devices, and
managing their resources.

Security: The operating system provides security features to protect the computer from
unauthorized access, viruses, and other threats. This includes user authentication, file
permissions, and virus protection.

User interface: The operating system provides a way for users to interact with the computer.
This includes a graphical user interface (GUI) or a command-line interface (CLI).
These are just some of the basic functions of an operating system. The specific functions of
an operating system vary depending on the type of operating system and the needs of the
users.

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 Self-Assessment 1
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with
the questions below.
1. Software programs that run on the hardware and makes it usable for the user to
interact with the hardware so that they can send commands (input) and receive results
(output) is called …………………………………………
a.) Application System
b.) Operating System
c.) Hard software
d.) All software

2. List and explain two types of operating systems.

a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………

b.) ………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………

3. Explain three characteristics of operating system

a.) ……………………………………………………………………………………
………………………..…….……………………………………………………
b.) ……………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
c.) ……………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………

4. The following are basic functions of Operating System EXCEPT

a.) Hardware Management

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 b.) Program Control
c.) Data Access
d.) Entry access
5. Briefly explain the following functions of the operating system
a.) Hardware Management:
…………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………
..……………………………………………………………………………
……………..………………………………………………………………
b.) Program Control:
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………..………………………………………………
…..…………………………..…..……………………………………………
……………………………………..…………………………………………

c.) Data Access:

……………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………..

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 LO 2: Demonstrate knowledge of Microsoft Windows Operating
System
This LO is developed to help you acquire knowledge in Microsoft Windows Operating
System in this learning outcome. To achieve this, we will go through PCs (a) – (e)

PC (a) Explain Microsoft Windows Operating System and identify the

versions
Windows or win is an operating environment created by Microsoft that provides an interface,
known as a Graphical User Interface (GUI), for computers. Windows eliminates the need to
memorize commands for the command line (MS-DOS) by using a mouse to navigate through
menus, dialog boxes, buttons, tabs, and icons.

PC (b) Outline Versions of Microsoft Windows Operating System

Windows Operating Systems (OS) constitute client as well as server versions. Some of the
well-known client versions include
S/ Versions Features Logos
N
1 Windows 95 It was the first complete Operating System
It was released on August 15, 1995
It merged MS-DOS and Windows products
It simplified plug and play features
Taskbar and Start menu were introduced with this Windows OS
Advanced from 16 bits GUI to 32 bits GUI
Long file names could be saved
On December 31, 2001, Windows declared this version of OS
outdated and ended its support.
2 Windows 98  It was released to manufacturing on May 15, 1998
 It was a 16 bit and 32 bits product based on MS DOS
 Internet Explorer 4.01 was released along with this Windows
version
 It did not support USB printers or mass storage devices
3 Windows  It was officially released on February 17, 2000. However, its
2000 manufacturing had begun in late 1999
 A core set of features was followed for manufacturing
Windows 2000 but 4 different editions, targeting different
sectors of the market were released. These included: Server,
Professional, Advanced Server and Data Center Server
 It was considered as one of the most secure OS ever
 A local disk manager was introduced with these Windows
 Multilingual User Interface – it supported many different
languages

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4 Windows XP  While the manufacturing started on August 24, 2001, the
official product was released on October 25, 2001
 Advanced portable PC support
 Automatic wireless connection support
 Fast start-up
 Better Graphical User Interface (GUI)
 Help and support centre
6 Windows  It was released on January 30, 2007
Vista  It had an upgraded version of Graphical User Interface
 It was the first operating system to use DVD-ROM for
installation
7 Windows 7  It was released on October 22, 2009
 A large number of new features were introduced
 Redesigned Windows shell with an updated taskbar
 Incremental upgrade to the Windows line
 Libraries were added in the file management system
 A few features from the past Windows were removed
 Extended hardware support
8 Windows 8 It was released for retail on October 26, 2012
Optimisations for touch-based
Installed in new devices like Laptops, Mobile phones, tablets, etc.
Increased integration with cloud services
Windows Store service for software distribution
Task manager had been redesigned
New security features were introduced
Online Applications could be directly downloaded
9 Windows 10 It was released on July 29, 2015
Addresses shortcomings in the user interface first introduced with
Windows 8
A virtual desktop system
It had the ability to run windows store apps within windows on
the desktop rather than in the full-screen mode
Included new icons
To reduce storage shortcomings, Windows 10 automatically
compresses the file size

PC (c) Explain the basic features of Microsoft Windows Operating System

Microsoft Windows is one of the most widely used operating systems for personal computers
and servers. It has evolved over the years with various versions, each introducing new features
and improvements. Here are some of the basic features that are commonly found in Microsoft
Windows operating systems:
Graphical user interface (GUI): Windows uses a GUI, which means that users interact with
the operating system through graphical elements such as icons, menus, and dialog boxes. This
makes it easier for users to use the operating system, especially those who are not familiar
with computers.
Multitasking: Windows allows users to run multiple programs at the same time. This is
done by dividing the CPU time between the different programs.
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File management: Windows provides a file manager that allows users to create, delete,
move, and copy files. It also allows users to create folders to organize their files.

Device support: Windows supports a wide range of hardware devices, including printers,
scanners, and cameras. This makes it easy for users to connect these devices to their
computers and use them.

Security: Windows provides security features to protect the computer from unauthorized
access, viruses, and other threats. This includes user authentication, file permissions, and
virus protection.

Accessibility features: Windows includes accessibility features that make it easier for
people with disabilities to use the operating system. These features include screen readers,
magnifiers, and on-screen keyboards.

These are just some of the basic features of Microsoft Windows Operating System. The
specific features of Windows vary depending on the version of Windows.

PC (d) Describe parts of the Microsoft Windows desktop environment

The Microsoft Windows desktop environment is the graphical user interface (GUI) that users
interact with when using a Windows operating system. It provides a visual representation of
the operating system and allows users to access applications, files, and system settings. The
Windows desktop environment consists of several key components: The Windows 10 screen
offers the following main features:

Start button: As with Windows 7 and most earlier versions of Windows, the Start button
appears in the lower-left corner of the screen, and you click it to display the Start menu.

Start menu: The new Start menu is divided into two sections. On the left is a navigation
section that gives you access to your user account; your most frequently used apps; system
features such as File Explorer, Settings, and Power; and the rest of your apps. On the right is
a scaled-down version of the Windows 8/8.1 Start screen that offers quick viewing and
access to the tiles of a few apps.

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Tiles: he rectangles you see on the right side of the Start menu each represent an item on
your PC—most tiles represent apps, but you can also add tiles for folders and websites—and
you click a tile to launch that item. Tiles can appear in one of four sizes.

Live tiles: Many of the Start menu tiles are “live” in the sense that they display often-
updated information instead of the app icon. For example, the Weather tile shows the current
weather for your default location; the Mail tile displays recent email messages; and the
Calendar tile shows your upcoming events. Note that these tiles don’t display any live
content until you have used them at least once.

All Apps: Clicking this icon displays a complete list of the apps and desktop programs
installed on your PC. Click Back to return to the main Start menu.

User account—Clicking this icon gives you access to several account-related tasks
accessing the Accounts section of the Settings app, locking your PC, and signing out of your
account.

Desktop: Relegated to a mere “app” in Windows 8/8.1, the desktop is back in Windows 10
and resumes its (rightful, in our opinion) place in the main interface as the default location
for programs and documents.

Taskbar: This strip along the bottom of the screen displays icons for each running app. You
can also pin an app’s icon so that a shortcut to it remains in the taskbar even when the app
isn’t running.

Search box: You use this box to search your PC. We’ve found that this feature is the easiest
way to launch apps, settings, and documents in Windows 10.

Task View: Click this taskbar icon to display thumbnails of your running apps and to create
virtual desktops.

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Pinned apps: The Windows 10 taskbar comes with several pinned apps, which means those
icons remain on the taskbar even when the apps are closed. To learn how to work with
pinned apps, see “Pinning an App to the Taskbar,” later in this chapter.

Notification area: This part of the taskbar displays various system icons for features such as
networking, sound, and power, as well as the notification issued by Windows.

Figure 1 Parts of the Microsoft Windows desktop environment

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 Self-Assessment 2
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with
the questions below.
1. Windows or win is an operating environment created by Microsoft that provides an
interface, known as a ………………………………………. for computers.
2. List two versions of Microsoft Windows Operating System
a) ………………………………………………………………………
b) ………………………………………………………………………
3. List two basic features of Windows Operating System
a.) ……………………………………………………………………………
b.) ……………………………………………………………………………
4. Write short notes on the following basic features of Microsoft Windows operating
System
a.) Searching and organizing:
………………………………………………..................................................
…………………………………………………………………………………
b.) Parental Controls:
………………………………………………...………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………
c.) Ease of Access Center:
………………………………………………...……………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………
d.) Default Programs:
………………………………………………..................................................
…………………………………………………………………………………
5. List two parts of the Microsoft Windows desktop environment
a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
b.) ………………………………………………………………………………

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 LO 3: Demonstrate Skills in File Management for Microsoft Windows
This LO is developed to help you acquire skills in File Management for Microsoft
Windows in this learning outcome. To achieve this, we will go through PCs (a) – (e)

PC (a) Distinguish between a File and a Folder in Microsoft Windows

A file is a collection of data stored in one unit, identified by a filename. It can be a
document, picture, audio or video stream, data library, application, or other collection of
data.
Just like real world folders, folders on your hard drive store files. These files can be
documents, programs, scripts, libraries, and any other kind of computer file you can think of.
Folders can also store other folders, which may store more files or other folders, and so on.

PC (b) Identify features of Windows File Explorer in Microsoft Windows

Windows File Explorer is the default file management tool in Microsoft Windows. It
provides a graphical interface for users to navigate, manage, and organize files, folders, and
storage devices. Here are the important features of Windows File Explorer:

Figure 2 Parts of Windows File Explorer in Microsoft Windows

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PC (c) Explain the functions of the Parts of the Windows File Explorer in
Microsoft Windows
File Explorer in Windows 10 is a window that lets you explore and manage the files and
folders in your computer and OneDrive account. After opening a library folder in Windows
10, for example, its contents appear in a File Explorer window.

Within File Explorer, the Navigation Pane is used to select folders, drives, and navigate the
computers, folders, and files on your network. You can expand and collapse the areas shown
within the Navigation Pane, which include Quick access, OneDrive, This PC, Network, and
Homegroup.

The Back, Forward, and Up Buttons let you navigate the different screens you browse in
File Explorer. Clicking the Back button returns to the last page viewed. Clicking the Forward
button moves forward again after pressing the Back button. If you click the Up button, you
move up a level in the folder hierarchy shown in File Explorer.

The many Tabs within the Ribbon appear at the top of File Explorer. All your file and
folder management commands appear here. After selecting an item in the Files and Folders
listing in File Explorer, the available commands appear on the tabs in the Ribbon. Clicking
the tabs shows the functions in each group.

The Address Bar shows the currently selected location in your computer or network. You
can also click into the Address Bar and enter a folder location, if desired. The Files and
Folders listing shows the contents of the currently selected Address Bar location.

If viewing the “Details” view of a folder in the Address Bar, then the details of the files and
folders appear in columns. At the top of each column is a column name that show the
column’s information type.

To find a specific file or folder in a selected folder location, use the Search Box. To do this,
start typing the name of the file or folder into the Search Box. Doing this then searches
within the currently selected folder location for the text you enter. Searching begins
immediately as you start typing into the Search Box.

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PC (d) Open a File and Folder in Microsoft Windows
Here's how you open File Explorer.
Click the File Explorer icon.
Quick Access appears, which
provides quick access to
commonly used folders.
You can also click the Start
button, and then choose File
Explorer.

Press + E to open File

Explorer.
1. Open a folder by double-
clicking it.

The Address Bar

The File Explorer address bar
is located above the file list and
provides the file path of the
current folder.
1. Click a folder from within
the address path to navigate
to a different (i.e., higher)
one.

Back, Forward, and Up Buttons

The back, forward, and up buttons appear next to the File Explorer address bar and provide
simple functions.

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 1. Click the Back button to return to the previously-opened folder.
This function is similar to that of using the back function in a web browser.
2. Click the Forward button to
return to the folder you
accessed prior to clicking the
Back icon.
3. Click the Up button to move
up one folder in the file path.

Navigation Pane
The left-hand pane of File
Explorer is the Navigation Pane,
which includes access to Quick
Access, OneDrive, your PC, and
network locations. You can easily
open a folder or file from the
Navigation Pane.
1. With File Explorer open, click
a shortcut to open it.

The Ribbon
Like other Windows apps and programs, File Explorer contains a ribbon, which is located
above the file path, across the top of the app. It is composed of tabs filled with command
buttons, which are grouped similarly based on function. Tabs and commands differ based on
the what folder is open, what file is selection, or what function is being used. For example,

19
the Picture Tools tab appears when a
picture is selected, and the Drive
Tools tab appears when a drive is
selected.
1. Click a ribbon tab to view the File
Explorer ribbon and commands.
The File Explorer ribbon is hidden
by default.
2. Click a command.

The ribbon will automatically hide.

1. Click the Expand the Ribbon
button to unhide the ribbon.

Open File from Windows Explorer

1. To start File Explorer in Windows 10, click the “File Explorer” app within the
“Windows System” folder in the “All apps” listing of the Start menu or Start screen.
2. Alternatively, click the “File Explorer” button in the Taskbar at the bottom of the
desktop.

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 3. The Navigation Pane at the left side of the File Explorer window lets you select
folders, drives, and also navigate your network’s computers, folders, and files.
4. You can expand and collapse the areas in the Navigation Pane.
5. The Back, Forward, and Up Buttons let you navigate through the screens you
browse within File Explorer.
6. To return to the last page viewed, click the Back button.
7. Click the Forward buttons to move forward again after clicking Back.
8. To move up a level in the folder hierarchy shown within File Explorer, click the
Up
9. After selecting an item from the Files and Folders listing in File Explorer, all its
commands appear on the Tabs within the Ribbon at the top of File Explorer.
Clicking the tabs shows the functions available in each group.
10. The Address Bar shows the currently selected computer or network location.
11. You can also click into the Address Bar and enter a folder location.
12. The Files and Folders listing shows the contents of the currently selected Address
Bar location.
13. If viewing the “Details” view of a folder location in the Address Bar, then the details
of its files and folders appear within columns. The top of each column shows the
column’s name.
14. To find a file or folder in a selected folder, type the file’s name or folder’s name
into the Search Box to immediately start searching within the currently selected
folder for the text you enter.

PC (e) Rename File and Folder in Microsoft Windows

A file name is described as the title of the file and the file extension. When you rename a file,
only the first part of the file name is changed. The file extension remains the same and
usually, is not to be changed. In case, you need to change the file extension as well, select the
entire file and change the name and the extension as desired. In this post, we will learn how
to rename a file or a folder in Windows 11 and Windows 10 and the various ways to do so.
There are multiple ways to rename a file or folder in Windows 10. They are as mentioned
below:
1. Open File Explorer. You can do this by clicking on the File Explorer icon in the
taskbar or by pressing the Windows+E keys on your keyboard.

21
 2. Locate the file or folder that you want to rename.
3. Right-click on the file or folder and select Rename.
4. Type the new name for the file or folder and press Enter.
First recommendation

1. Highlight the file or folder.

2. Right-click the file and click Rename from the menu that appears.

Second recommendation
1. Highlight the file or folder.

2. Press the F2 key on the keyboard.

Third recommendation
1. Highlight the file or folder.
2. Click File at the top of the Window and select Rename from the list of available
options.

Fourth recommendation
1. Highlight the file or folder you want to rename by single-clicking the file.
2. Once highlighted wait a few seconds and click the file again. A box should appear
surrounding the file or folder name and you should be able to rename the file.
Note: If you don't wait long enough and click the file or folder too fast it can open the file or
folder.
Renaming multiple files or folders at once
1. Open Explorer.
2. In Explorer select all the files you want to rename.
3. Once the files have been selected press F2 and type the new name for the files. For
example, typing "test" will rename the files to test, test (1), test (2), test (3) etc. If you
have file extensions shown make sure to also type the name of the file extension
you're renaming.

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 Self-Assessment 3
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with
the questions below.
1. Explain the difference between a file and a folder
a.) File:
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
…..…………………………………………………………………………
b.) Folder:
…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………..…
………………………………………………………………………………
……..………………………………………………………………………
2. List two Parts of the Microsoft Windows explorer
a.) …………………………………………………………………………
b.) …………………………………………………………………………
3. The following are all parts of the Microsoft Windows explorer EXCEPT
a.) Forward and Back buttons
b.) Long bar
c.) Address bar
d.) Search box
4. Open a file from:
i. within a program
ii. from my documents folder
iii. from windows folder
5. Rename files and folders using the various recommendations.
6. Select Multiple Files and folders in Microsoft Windows

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 LO 4: Demonstrate Skills in Running Common Microsoft
Windows Tasks
This LO is developed to help you acquire skills in Running Common Microsoft
Windows Tasks in this learning outcome. To achieve this, we will go through PCs (a) – (e)

PC(a). Describe the Menu Bar in typical Microsoft Windows Application

The menu bar is the part of a browser or application window, typically at the top left side,
that houses drop-down menus that allow the user to interact with the content or application
in various ways. Menus are often displayed from a menu bar, which is a list of labeled menu
categories typically located near the top of a window. By contrast, a context menu drops
down when users right-click on an object or window region that supports a context menu.

Figure 3 Menu Bar in typical Microsoft Windows Application

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Common File Menu Commands in Microsoft Windows
1. New: Opens a new, empty, text window or spreadsheet.
2. Open: Opens a file into a new window. This may be a text file containing data in
which case a text window is opened. For other types of files, a window of the
appropriate type is opened to display the contents.
3. Close: Closes the current window. Any changes to the data will be lost if you have
not saved them in a file. You cannot close the Output or Input Log windows.
4. Insert: This can be used to open a file containing text, inserting its contents at the
current cursor position in a text window.
5. Save: Saves the current window into a file. If the window is already associated with
a file, the contents are saved to that file. For an untitled window, the output window,
or the input log, you are prompted for the name of the file into which the text is to
be saved.
6. Save As: Saves the current window into a file. You will be prompted for the file
name, allowing you to save untitled windows to a new file and save existing files
under a new name, leaving the original unchanged.
7. Page Setup: This allows you to control the appearance of text that is sent to the
printer. You can choose whether headers and footers are printed on each page, and
the size of the page margins.
8. Print: Prints the current window or selection on the default or selected printer. The
print job can be cancelled at any point by clicking on the cancel button. The printer
selection can be changed by using the Printer Setup menu.

PC(b). Explain basic actions on the Microsoft Windows clipboard

The clipboard is a temporary storage area in Windows that holds the last item that you
copied or cut. You can then paste the item into another location.
Here are some basic actions you can do on the Microsoft Windows clipboard:
Copy: To copy an item to the clipboard, select the item and press Ctrl+C.
Cut: To cut an item to the clipboard, select the item and press Ctrl+X.
Paste: To paste an item from the clipboard, place the cursor where you want to paste the
item and press Ctrl+V.
Clear: To clear the clipboard, press Ctrl+Shift+V.
Pin: To pin an item to the clipboard, right-click on the item and select Pin to clipboard. This
will keep the item on the clipboard even after you have copied or cut something else.
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History: To see the history of items that have been copied or cut to the clipboard, press
Windows+V.

PC (c) Perform basic actions on the Microsoft Windows clipboard

Before you can copy, cut, or paste text data you must be able to highlight, or select, the text
that you want to perform the action on. This is called highlighting and allows you to select
all the information in a document or certain portions of it. Once the text is highlighted you
can then copy or cut that information depending on your needs.
An example of what highlighted text looks like is below:

Figure 4 Example of highlighted text

Copying text
To copy something, Here are 3 ways you can do it:
Using the keyboard: To copy text using the keyboard, first select the text that you want to
copy. You can do this by clicking and dragging the mouse over the text, or by holding down
the Shift key and using the arrow keys to select the text. Once you have selected the text,
press Ctrl+C. This will copy the text to the clipboard.
Using the mouse: To copy text using the mouse, first click and drag the mouse over the text
that you want to copy. Once you have selected the text, right-click on it and select Copy.
This will also copy the text to the clipboard.
Using the context menu: To copy text using the context menu, first click on the text that
you want to copy. Then, right-click on the text and select Copy from the context menu. This
will also copy the text to the clipboard.
Once you have copied the text, you can paste it into another location by pressing Ctrl+V.

Cutting text
Here are 3 ways you can cut text in Microsoft Windows:
Using the keyboard: To cut text using the keyboard, first select the text that you want to cut.
You can do this by clicking and dragging the mouse over the text, or by holding down the
Shift key and using the arrow keys to select the text. Once you have selected the text, press
Ctrl+X. This will cut the text to the clipboard and remove it from its original location.

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Using the mouse: To cut text using the mouse, first click and drag the mouse over the text
that you want to cut. Once you have selected the text, right-click on it and select Cut. This
will also cut the text to the clipboard and remove it from its original location.
Using the context menu: To cut text using the context menu, first click on the text that you
want to cut. Then, right-click on the text and select Cut from the context menu. This will also
cut the text to the clipboard and remove it from its original location.
Once you have cut the text, you can paste it into another location by pressing Ctrl+V.

Pasting text
Here are 3 ways you can paste text in Microsoft Windows:
Using the keyboard: To paste text using the keyboard, first place the cursor where you want
to paste the text. Then, press Ctrl+V. This will paste the text from the clipboard into the
current location.
Using the mouse: To paste text using the mouse, first place the cursor where you want to
paste the text. Then, right-click and select Paste. This will also paste the text from the
clipboard into the current location.
Using the context menu: To paste text using the context menu, first place the cursor where
you want to paste the text. Then, right-click and select Paste from the context menu. This
will also paste the text from the clipboard into the current location.

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 Self-Assessment 4
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with
the questions below.
1. The menu bar is the part of a …………………. or …………………… window,
typically at the top left side, that houses drop-down menus that allow the user to
interact with the content or application in various ways.

2. Explain the following Commands

a.) Open:
……………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………
b.) Close:
……………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
c.) Insert:
……………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
d.) Save:
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
3. Explain the following actions on a windows clipboard
a.) Copy:
……………………………………………………………………...……….
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
b.) Cut:
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
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 c.) Paste:
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
4. Type the text below and perform he following task
a.) Copying
b.) Cutting
c.) Pasting
The former AC Milan striker becomes the 25th president of the country. His opponent, 73-
year-old Joseph Boakai - who has been the country's president for the last 12 years, got only
two counties to vote for him. The 1995 FIFA World Player of the Year and Ballon d’Or
winner, will succeed President Ellen Johnson Sir leaf.

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 LO 5: Demonstrate Skills in Managing Microsoft Windows
Settings
This LO is to help you acquire skills in Managing Windows Settings in this
learning outcome. To achieve this, we will go through PCs (a) – (d)

PC (a) Explain User Account in Microsoft Windows

In Microsoft Windows, a user account is a distinct identity associated with an individual user
or a group of users. Each user account has its own settings, permissions, preferences, and
resources within the operating system. User accounts play a crucial role in managing access
to the computer and its resources, ensuring security, and customizing the user experience.
Modern operating systems such as Microsoft Windows have been designed to meet the needs
of many different users. Accordingly, the operating system provides a method for creating
multiple user accounts on a single installation of Microsoft Windows. You can configure and
customize each user account based on the needs of the individual who will be using it. For
example, desktop settings, screen savers, shortcuts, and user specific data files are all stored
separately for each account. In general, give each user of a system his or her own account.

PC (b) Explain types of User Account in Microsoft Windows

In Microsoft Windows, there are several types of user accounts, each with different levels of
privileges and access to system resources. These account types help manage security, access
control, and the user experience. Here are the main types of user accounts in Windows:
Administrator: This is the highest level of account and has full access to the computer.
Administrators can install software, change settings, and access all files on the computer.
Standard user: This type of account has limited access to the computer. Standard users can
run most programs and access most files, but they cannot install software, change settings, or
access files that are owned by administrators.
Guest: This type of account is for temporary users and has very limited access to the
computer. Guest users can only run a few basic programs and cannot access any files.

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PC (c) Create New User Accounts in Microsoft Windows
Creating new user accounts in Microsoft Windows allows you to set up distinct identities for
different users, each with their own settings, preferences, and access levels. Here's how you
can create new user accounts in Windows:
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on Family & other users.
4. Click on Add someone else to this PC.
5. Click on I don't have this person's sign-in information.
6. Click on Add a user without a Microsoft account.
7. Enter the user name and password for the new account.
8. Click on Next.
9. Select the account type for the new account.
10. Click on Create account.

PC (d) Configure New User Account

1. Configuring a new user account in Microsoft Windows involves customizing settings,
permissions, and preferences to match the user's needs. Here are the steps to configure
a new Open the Settings app by pressing Windows+I keys.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. In the left pane, click on Family & other users.
4. Click on Add someone else to this PC.
5. Select I don't have this person's sign-in information.
6. Select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
7. Enter the user's name, password, and password hint.
8. Select the account type. You can choose between a standard user account or an
administrator account.
9. Click on Create account.

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PC (e) Practice how to Switch User Account for a defined Microsoft
Windows Version
Microsoft Windows allows multiple user accounts to exist on a single computer. Having
alternate accounts allow you to keep your settings and preferences separate from other
family members who log into the same computer.

Windows 10
Press Ctrl + Alt + Del and click Switch user.
OR
1. Click the Start button.
2. At the top of the Start Menu or on the middle left-hand side of the Start Menu, click your
username or icon and choose the user you want to use. You can also choose Sign out and
then Sign into the user account you want to use.

Windows 8
Press Ctrl + Alt + Del and click Switch user.

Windows Vista and Windows 7

Press Ctrl + Alt + Del and click
Switch user.

OR
1. Click the Start button.
2. In the Start Menu next to the Shutdown button click the arrow pointing to the right
and select Switch user.

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 Self-Assessment 5
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with
the questions below.
1. Modern operating systems such as Microsoft Windows have been designed to meet
the needs of many different users. True/False

2. Explain the following types of user accounts in MS windows

a.) Administrator:
………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………..
b.) Standard user:
………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………...
…………………………………………………………………………………...
…………………………………………………………………………………...

3. Create and configure a new user account with the user name David Prah with
password david123
4. Switch the user account from David Prah to John Mensah

Hurray!!! We have come to the end of the unit. I must say I am very proud of your effort
and determination to achieve this unit. However, if you have missed any step in this unit in
the course of its span, I entreat you to go back and treat it as every section in the whole unit
has been designed to go give you a wholistic in-depth insight of what needs to be known.

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