MICROSOFT WORD IN 30 MINUTES

Part of a series on computer programs and social media platforms, this guide teaches the basics of Microsoft Word and gives tips for making the most of it.

Rose (PowerPoint Basics in 30 Minutes, 2017, etc.) is devoted to Microsoft Word. “I cannot imagine working as a freelance writer without it,” she maintains. Anticipating anxiety about upgrading to Word 2019, she reassures readers that it’s familiar from the 2013 and 2016 versions: “The interface is super intuitive and a snap to learn.” Throughout this second edition of her manual, she helpfully notes the differences between the Windows and Mac versions and discusses the particulars of Word Online, which is free to access but has “reduced functionality.” From the Backstage view through the customizable Ribbon to document protection options, the book covers everything that beginners need to know while peppering in “Protips” that will help intermediate users employ Word more effectively. Acknowledging that the software may be used in academic, office, and personal settings, the work highlights a wide range of features, such as utilizing citation tools, applying styles and themes to a whole document, converting text to a table, inserting photos and videos, and operating the new Draw feature. Screenshots serve as apt illustrations. At times, the volume appears a little too basic (like a “For Dummies” guide), as in “press the Word 2019 icon on your desktop,” and “check to see if your printer is turned on.” Certain tasks, such as applying bold or italics, are so self-explanatory they hardly warrant a mention. Rose doesn’t always seem attuned to contemporary computer use patterns—“You will eventually want to print the document” isn’t true in an increasingly paperless society. Some readers may find her persistent cat stories annoying, too. Such authorial presence (including “I personally…” usage notes) is unnecessary in a software guide, though it makes for a conversational tone. The end matter—including an index and an appendix of keyboard shortcuts—is particularly helpful, as is the advice on document recovery. Despite the title, plan on needing closer to an hour to work through the book.

Microsoft Word made simple in this valuable, user-friendly manual.