Computers are everywhere! You will find computers in nearly every place you go. Practically all careers are impacted by computers. From accountants and attorneys to farmers and factory workers, many employees rely on computers.

Computers have also made a huge impact on our personal lives, from the way we learn in school to the way we play. Schools and libraries have computers to allow students and other people to research the past as well as organize and present their information. Let’s think about what you do when you are not in school. Do you play video games, go to the movies, or “chat” with your friends? All of those things have changed dramatically with the invention of the computer.

Computers are found in different shapes and sizes. Besides the traditional desktop computer, you could purchase a laptop, or even a handheld computer. A desktop computer is a big change from the early computers that were the size of a room. A laptop computer is a portable computer that is designed to sit on your “lap.” A handheld computer is also called a PDA (personal data assistant). In addition to these types of “personal” computers, you will find very large computers in grocery stores, airports, and malls.