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What is software?
Software means the programs and instructions a computer uses. The keyboard is hardware. The program where you write text is software. You use both when writing on a computer.
System software
System software helps the computer and other programs work. An operating system is an example of system software. Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS are examples of operating systems.
Application software
We use application software for a particular task. We write in a word processor, create pictures in a drawing app, and play in a game. Word is an example of a word processor.
Try it yourself
Name one physical part of your device and one program you use. Then explain what you use that program for.
See an example answer
Example: the monitor is hardware. A drawing program is software, and I use it to make pictures.
Check your knowledge
Choose one answer for each question. You can revise your answers and check again.
Answer key
- Programs. Programs contain instructions that the computer follows.
- Windows. Windows is system software: an operating system.
- Application software. We use it for a particular task: drawing.
- An operating system. Android is an operating system used on many mobile devices.
- A keyboard and Word. A keyboard is a physical device, and Word is a program.