Parts of a Computer

1. The screen or monitor

The display shows text, pictures, windows, videos and other visual information. A laptop normally has a built-in display; a desktop commonly uses a separate monitor.

How to use it: 1) sit facing the screen, 2) adjust the screen angle on a laptop or monitor position if possible, 3) use the brightness controls in the operating system when the screen is too bright or dark, 4) keep liquids away from the screen, 5) clean gently with an appropriate soft cloth.

2. Keyboard

The keyboard is an input device used mainly for entering text and commands. It contains letter keys, number keys, punctuation, modifier keys such as Shift and Ctrl, navigation keys and function keys.

To type a capital letter, hold Shift while pressing the letter. To make a space, press Spacebar. To remove the character before the cursor, press Backspace. To move to a new line in many text fields, press Enter.

3. Mouse and touchpad

A mouse lets you point, click, double-click, right-click, drag and scroll. A touchpad performs similar actions on a laptop.

Practice: move the pointer to an icon; click once to select it; double-click to open it; right-click to see a shortcut menu; move two fingers on a touchpad or use the mouse wheel to scroll; hold the left button while moving to drag an object.

4. CPU, RAM and storage

The CPU executes instructions. RAM is temporary working memory used by running programs. Storage such as an SSD or hard drive keeps files and programs even after the computer is turned off.

A simple comparison: the CPU is the worker performing instructions, RAM is the workspace holding what is currently being used, and storage is the cabinet where information is kept.

5. Ports and peripherals

USB ports can connect devices such as flash drives, keyboards and mice. Other ports may carry display, audio or network connections. A printer, scanner, webcam, microphone or external drive is called a peripheral when it extends the computer’s capabilities.

Before connecting a device, check the connector shape and never force a plug. Insert it gently in the correct orientation. Wait for the operating system to recognize it before using it.

6. How to identify parts on a real laptop

Step 1: Close unnecessary programs so you can concentrate. Step 2: Identify the display. Step 3: Identify the keyboard. Step 4: Locate the touchpad. Step 5: Look along the sides for ports. Step 6: Locate speakers, microphone and webcam. Step 7: Do not open the computer casing unless trained to do so.

7. Practice task

Point to each visible part of your computer and say its name and job. Then use the mouse or touchpad to select an icon, open a program and close it. Finally, identify one port and explain what device could connect to it.

Quick practice

Now perform the practical task in this lesson on a real computer whenever possible. If you cannot perform it yet, repeat the steps slowly until you can do them without guessing.

Mastery test

Take the mastery test only after you have read the lesson and attempted the practical tasks. You need 80% or higher.