Maran Illustrated Windows XP (Paperback)

~ Ruth Maran (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Produced by the award-winning maranGraphics group, "Maran’s Illustrated Guide to Windows XP" is a valuable resource for all readers, regardless of experience. Clear, step-by-step instructions walk the reader through each operation from beginning to end. Helpful topic introductions and useful tips provide additional information and advice to enhance the readers’ Windows XP experience and help meet their individual needs. "Maran’s Illustrated Guide to Windows XP" is packed with information useful to readers who have purchased their first computer and are learning Windows XP for the first time. Those who have experience with older versions of Windows, or even earlier versions of Windows XP, will find this book an excellent guide to help them take command of their computing experience, by way of the easy-to-use maranGraphics format. Readers have the option of reading the book cover to cover, or simply reading the individual topics they are interested in.

From the Publisher

Features a unique two-page spread, over 500 full-color screen shots, illustrations, and useful tips that appeal to and engage visual learners and simplify the learning process.

Provides extensive coverage of Windows XP, the latest version of Windows, including Windows Security Center, Wi-Fi wireless networking, Bluetooth wireless connections, Windows Media Player 10, and Internet Explorer’s Pop-up Blocker. Also covers the latest in computer gadgets and accessories including MP3 player, DVD players, and much more.

Using simple, easy-to-understand and concise text, this book covers over 120 essential Windows XP topics for both the Home and Professional versions, making it a great reference for all skill levels.

Written using "Visual Grammar™," a proven method that combines instructions with full-color screen shots to provide the best synergistic learning experience available.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Course Technology PTR; 1 edition (March 25, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1592008704
• ISBN-13: 978-1592008704
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 8 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #255,326 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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  Books > Computers & Internet > Microsoft > Operating Systems > Windows XP

• This item is part of The Maran Illustrated Computer Series.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Visually impressive and easy to follow..., May 30, 2005

By	Thomas Duff "Duffbert" (Portland, OR United States) - See all my reviews (TOP 50 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

Late last week, a surprise package from Amazon ended up on my doorstep. Maran Illustrated Windows XP by Ruth Maran. It's my first look at a Maran Illustrated book, and I must say I'm impressed...

Chapter List: Windows Basics; View Files; Working With Files; More Working With Files; Customize Windows; Work With Songs And Videos; Create Movies; Share Your Computer; Optimize Computer Performance; Work On A Network; Browse The Web; Exchange E-mail; Exchange Instant Messages; Index

As far as content goes, this is a Windows XP beginner's book. It covers all the basics on how to find files, move windows, launch programs, etc. If that was all this book brought to the table, it'd be just another title amongst others. But when you open it up, it quickly becomes clear that this is a cut above most entry-level books. Maran uses copious quantities of illustrations to show the reader exactly how to accomplish each task. And it's just not the "here's a screen shot" type of graphic. Each chapter is made up of a number of "how to" and/or tips on how to do stuff. The leading illustration is more general in nature, such as a computer exposed to show multiple safe deposit boxes, used to show how you can share your computer and keep things private at the same time. The step-by-step illustrations used to show you how to do something are screen prints, but the specific parts of the screen are circled, red-lined, and numbered, all pointing back to each instructional step. It'd be nearly impossible to get stuck on a point while using this book. Add in the heavier paper quality and the rich palette of colors that are used, and this book is almost as enjoyable to look at as it is to work with.

The author, Ruth Maran, is part of Maran Graphics, a family-owned and -run business that produces the Maran Illustrated line of books. While a book on Windows XP might not be something I'd need due to my prior experience with technology, using their titles on learning to play the piano or guitar would now be a choice I'd look for if I were wanting to learn either of those skills. This is a book I'd feel totally comfortable recommending to a PC newbie just getting started on Windows XP. Very nicely done...

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great Guide, April 8, 2006

By	Michael "Mike" (New York, USA) - See all my reviews

Excellent learning tool for the beginner. Everything is broken down into simple steps and the illustrations make each step simple to understand and commit to memory. I had a text only book and believe me, this is so much better. I'm actually enjoying learing Windows XP now.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Greenhorn Review, March 15, 2007

By	Katherine H. Miller "book worm" (Fullerton, CA USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

My computer skills are limited, but this book was recommended to me by a knowledgeable friend as a resource. I am using it that way, so have not been into it that much. It does have great illustrations and directions clearly illustrated.