The six-disc package of Teaching You Office covers tutorials for Microsoft’s Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Access programs, as well as Windows itself.

Both Office 2000 and 2002 (also known as Office XP) are catered for, while the Windows disc deals with XP, 2000 and 98.

Each disc is divided into three levels of difficulty. The course material itself is divided into sections, and these are clearly shown in tree form down the left-hand side of the screen.

Each topic is covered in the main window, and there is the option to practise actions or see them demonstrated. There are multiple choice tests, helping to reinforce the course material, and completed topics will appear with a tick next to them in the tree view.

The programs do not need to be installed, which preserves hard-disk space. At times the interface can seem a bit stale, but this package is about education rather than aesthetics.

We were impressed that more than one version of the Microsoft programs are covered, although the Windows disc loses some points for not dealing with some of the enhancements introduced with XP’s Service Packs.

Still, Teaching you Office is a good all-round package, whether for the serious learner or the accomplished PC user who needs the occasional refresher.

Also consider
GSP Office Tutorials Compendium Pack
Verdict: Great for beginners and good value
Rating: 3/5
Price: £30
or
Computeractive tips on Hidden Office Extras