In this computer and technology age with the evolution of Windows operating systems from Windows 3.1 up to the latest fast, stable, plug & play, easy to use operating system like Windows XP Professional, I see many computer users still having trouble with basic Windows tasks. Maybe our lives ARE really just too busy.

Simple tasks (well maybe not simple to the beginning Windows user) like browsing through the folder directory structure or folder tree of Windows with Windows Explorer: http://www.jegsworks.com/Lessons/win/filesandfolders/step-folders-explorer1.htm , unhiding hidden files and directories, setting up Windows preferences, using different Windows logon accounts or profiles, copying files, backing up data, or using multiple local or network printers or multi-media gadets should be fairly easy to do if you are an intermediate Windows user; for beginners there may be more of a learning curve. The best way to learn Windows is to jump in with both feet. There is no substitute for learning hands on...so DIVE IN! The more you dig in (or "putz" to put it technically), the more familiar it will become; and you will learn that there are 3 or 4 ways to do most tasks in Windows.

If you have a new computer with Windows XP, you probably haven't realized that there is a great Windows XP interactive tutorial installed right on your hard drive! If it's not on the hard drive it is on the Windows XP installation CD. You don't have to take an expensive instructor led or CBT (computer based training) class - all you need to do is DIVE in and swim.

Go to Start, All Programs, Accessories, Tour Windows XP to fire off the XP interactive tutorial. If you don't have access to this XP tutorial, you can download it at: http://www.microsoft.com/education/WinXP101Tutorial.aspx