Middletown Thrall Library Reference Department Introduces Job Seekers to
Computer Terminology
Some Technical Words and Concepts You Should Know
Clicking
To press a button (usually the LEFT) on a mouse (see definition below).
Copy and Paste
To copy text and / or an image from one area and place it (paste) elsewhere.
Cursor / Cursor Keys
A small flashing vertical line on the screen. It shows where you are (or will
be) typing. Cursor keys (arrows on the computer keyboard) move the cursor.
Database
Generally, a computerized information storage system. Job search databases
contain job announcements. Thrall’s research databases contain “full text”
(complete) articles from magazines, journals, encyclopedias, and newspapers.
E-mail
Electronic mail. It’s how people most often communicate on the Internet
(see definition below). When applying for a job, you will need an e-mail
account. Ask for our free Getting an E-mail Account flyer at Reference.
Errors
When working with computers, there can often be errors (problems) reported.
If you see any error messages while on library computers, see Reference.
Files and File Names
Computers store information in files. Files can contain your resumé, cover
letter, as well as other documents, images, and music. Files can be stored on
flash drives, floppy disks, and hard drives (see definitions below)
File Attachments
Files sent by e-mail. Sometimes you must send your resumé as an “attached
file” to an employer. See our Resumé flyer for steps on how to do that.
File Formats
Just as there are different kinds of information, there are numerous ways
(formats) that information can be recorded on a computer. Your resumé file
is usually stored as a Microsoft Word file. See our Resumé flyer for details.
Flash Drives
Storage media for files. Faster, smaller, usually more reliable than floppy
disks. Store thousands of files. Connects via the USB port (see next page).