How to Do Everything with Microsoft Office Outlook 2003

Library Journal

Expect demand for guides on components of the newest version of Microsoft Office, as workplaces begin upgrading and PC manufacturers begin bundling. For medium and larger public libraries, the three entries in the "Top 100" series will make useful supplements for patrons who are comfortable with the basics of earlier Office versions; most of the content is not unique to v.2003. Each book contains illustrated, step-by-step tips to make tasks easier, shows advanced ideas, and demonstrates new features. Difficulty levels of each are noted, and "Did You Know?" sections add extra information. Word includes tips ranging from creating custom images for bullets to using an Outlook address on a Word-printed envelope, while Excel furnishes basic keyboard shortcuts and information on converting work sheets into lists, among other things. Office clues readers into areas like customizing menus and toolbars and converting Access forms or reports to web pages; appendixes cover keyboard shortcuts and a brief introduction to Picture Manager. For all libraries, the two updated Visual QuickStart titles are typically screenshot and step-by-step-instruction heavy; tips offer extra guidance. Outlook's introduction lists new features in each Outlook version from 1998 to 2003, an appendix explains program configuration, and the rest of the book covers common functions and tasks. Its index leaves something to be desired, e.g., there is no entry under "Viruses," although a section does discuss viruses and blocked email attachments; the text's coverage of some new 2003 features is also lacking. Not an essential purchase. Word's introduction highlights new and improved features, the text covers everything from text formatting basics to customizing Word's features, and its appendix covers menus and keyboard shortcuts; clear and recommended for beginners to intermediate users. More thorough than the QuickStart Outlook guide, How To Do provides clear explanations of why and how features work, tips and sidebars for further information, and step-by-step instructions on completing common tasks. It also discusses new features, e.g., the Research Pane; recommended for all libraries. Show Me takes a whirlwind tour of Office programs, employing common tools and features and using programs together. Task-based chapters provide a nice overview of the basics of each program; appendixes outline Office Specialist exams and contain a troubleshooting, question-based index to answers in the text. Step-by-step instructions, extensively labeled screen shots, added information tips, and See Also notes make this a useful introduction. For adventuresome beginners to advanced users, Complete Reference begins with a summary of new features, moves on to the typical explanation of the interface and of relational databases in general, and then goes through various applications. The CD holds sample files and a "quick reference" in PDF format; exercises assist in self-study. For larger libraries. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.