We explain what a word processor is and a little history about this computer tool. Also, its advantages and some examples.
What is a word processor?
The word processor is a type of computer program or application whose main function is to create or modify text documents written on a computer.
You could say that a word processor is the modern version of a typewriter with many more functions and versatility. In a word processor you can work with different typefaces (fonts) as well as sizes, colors, text formats, effects, insert images, tables, etc.
The texts that are processed in these programs are stored on the computer as a text file that is usually called documents. It also allows you to save them on other media, such as a pen drive or a floppy disk in the past. In turn, the program allows you to directly print the files .
Another important function that these processors have is the Possibility of spelling and grammar correction in addition to having dictionaries that facilitate the task of those who write.
A little history about the word processor
These programs were among the first to be created when personal computers were introduced on the market. In the beginning they only allowed the entry of text, without images or effects, and they evolved over the years. These programs were developed for mathematical rather than computer needs.
In 1964 IBM created the first magnetic typewriter which allowed the correction of the text without the need to type everything again. IBM sold its invention as a “word processing machine,” hence the name these applications are known today.
In 1970 IMB also created floppy disks that marked a before and after in computing. These floppy disks could store a greater number of pages of text (up to 100) than previously.
Advantages of a word processor
- First of all, with a word processor we can edit text, choose the font, font size, highlighting tools (bold for example), among other possibilities that give the text agility.
- It is also possible to align the text, choose the spacing between paragraphs and line spacing, incorporate elements such as images, hyperlinks, headers and footers, page breaks, shapes, etc.
- They also offer spell checkers and dictionaries to look up synonyms or translate words from one language to another.
- It is possible to insert images and graphics within the same text.
- They also allow the creation of tables, making lists with numbering or bullet points.
Word processor examples
Currently, the most used word processors are:
- Word, from Microsoft.
- NotePad.
- WordPad.
- OpenOffice.
- Wordperfect.
- KWord.
