Spreadsheets, databases, word processing, and presentations

Spreadsheets

Spreadsheets are a type of software used for manipulation and analysis of numerical data.
Microsoft Excel is a popular example, but other alternatives include Google Sheets and Apple Numbers.
Features include formulae and functions for mathematical operations, graph and chart creation for visualisation, and pivot tables for data summarisation.
Cell referencing allows data from one cell to be used in a calculation in another.
Absolute reference refers to a fixed position, relative reference changes when the formula is moved or copied.
Vital for activities including budgeting, forecasting, and inventory management in businesses.

Databases help organise and manage large amounts of information efficiently.
They can be both relational (SQL) or non-relational (NoSQL) in nature.
Businesses use databases to store data about products, employees, customers etc., in a structured manner.
SQL (Structured Query Language) is used to manipulate and retrieve data.
Features like key fields, records, tables form the backbone of databases.
Applications include customer relationship management (CRM), enterprise resource planning (ERP) and content management systems (CMS).

A word processor is a software application that provides functionalities for creating, editing and formatting text-based documents.
Microsoft Word, Google Docs and Apple Pages are common examples.
Key features include spell check, grammar check, word count, thesaurus, and various formatting options.
Useful for creating documents such as letters, reports, invoices, memos etc.
Special tools like Mail Merge can personalize mass communications like emails or newsletters.

Presentation software like Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides or Apple Keynote help create visual aids for meetings or lectures.
Text, images, graphs, videos, audio, hyperlinks can all be incorporated into slides.
Transitions and animations can be added to enhance visual interest.
Master slides, themes or templates can keep consistent design across all slides.
Features like Presenter View aids in delivering the presentation smoothly.
Can be used in sales pitches, educational lectures, training sessions, etc. with the aim to engage and inform the audience.