Opening Your First Program

🖱️➡️⌨️ Scruffy’s Digital Journy — Opening Your First Program

Hi, I’m Scruffy. Once I learned how to use the mouse, Christopher showed me how to open my very first program. At first, I didn’t know where to find Word or Notepad. But Christopher explained that the Start Menu and the search bar are like maps — they help you find what you need.

🌀 Step‑by‑Step Guide: Opening Word or Notepad

Step 1: Go to the Start Menu

• Move your mouse pointer to the bottom left corner of the screen.

• Left‑click the Windows logo (Start button).

Step 2: Use the Search Bar

• Next to the Start button, you’ll see a search box.

• Left‑click inside it and type Word or Notepad using the keyboard.

Step 3: Find the Program Icon

• The program will appear in the list.

• Move your mouse pointer over the icon.

Step 4: Left‑Click to Open

• Left‑click once on the icon.

• The program will open on your screen.

Step 5: Begin Keyboard Practice

• Once Word or Notepad is open, place your hands on the keyboard.

• Try typing your name, today’s date, or a short sentence.

• Use the space bar, Enter key, and Backspace to practice.

✨ Scruffy’s Reflection

At first, I felt nervous about opening programs. I worried I’d click the wrong thing. But Christopher reminded me: the Start Menu and search bar are there to help. Once I opened Word for the first time, I felt proud — it was like opening a notebook, ready for me to write.