Books on how to use a computer.

Tanzanite · May 27, 2007, 13:49:43

Can anyone recommend a very basic book for someone over 50 on using win xp please. It's for my mum who'd like to know how to use one, is scared of doing something to the computer if she presses the wrong button. Is free of too much computer jargon, yet not patronising and has simple step by step instructions. It needs to have enough info on how to use the internet and search engines as that's mostly what she wants to do on it. She knows enough on how to do a Sainsburys shop online each week but that's it (and unconfident with it).

I used to see a book advertised a while ago but can't remember what it was called.

Inactive · May 27, 2007, 14:34:28

I seem to recall Computers for Idiots, not just for " over 50's " tho', my Son in Law is under 30 and he can't send an email.

Why do people presume that age is somehow related to technical ability?

DorsetBoy · May 27, 2007, 14:36:07

The "For Dummies" range have some very good guides for most aspects of PC/internet use.

Poole library usually have them in their stock.

Tanzanite · May 27, 2007, 14:39:45

Hmm, I wish they didn't put for dummies/idiots etc in their titles

Lance · May 27, 2007, 14:54:12

I would also suggest the "for dummies" range. I had a quick flick through one once and found it well laid out, while my grandad who was learning found it easy to understand.

You really mustn't let the title put you off!

Tanzanite · May 27, 2007, 14:56:09

Quote from: Lance on May 27, 2007, 14:54:12

You really mustn't let the title put you off!

I know but the thought of giving it to someone with those words in the title is a bit weird lol

Lance · May 27, 2007, 14:58:10

lol you just need to explain that the "for dummies" is the series of books, and not to be taken personally!

Tanzanite · May 27, 2007, 15:00:31

I'll blame you lot if I get disowned

How did the exams go Lance?

Lance · May 27, 2007, 15:13:31

The exams went OK I think, one is possibly a bit dodgy, but the other should be a pass (hopefully!). Thanks for asking!

Tanzanite · May 27, 2007, 17:20:12

When do you get the results?

Lance · May 27, 2007, 21:18:35

Not until the end of July!

Tanzanite · May 28, 2007, 09:17:09

Oh dear! You'll have to keep yourself busy to take your mind off it and make the time go quicker.

Lance · May 29, 2007, 09:24:33

Don't worry, it'll take me that long to get through the 316 emails I have at work!

Tanzanite · May 29, 2007, 09:27:30

Too busy on here to do any work