Blog Post # 3 - Documenting a Day

Documenting a Day

When I started this assignment, I felt confident in using Microsoft Word since I use frequently at work. When using Microsoft Word, I enjoy all the available options for customizing and editing my documents, from using the strikethrough feature to the ease of creating a bulleted or numbered list when typing out instructions for my staff or creating signage. Word makes it easy for anyone with basic knowledge to format a document using one of the many templates available, I mean who hasn’t created a resume using Word? One disadvantage I encountered using Word is although it can be very user friendly, one mistake can alter the entire document and if the user does not how to undo their mistake the simplest project can turn into a nightmare.

Every program within the Microsoft Office suite has its own use and while I am not proficient in all of them, after completing this assignment I have a better understanding of their application in real world scenarios. I used Microsoft Excel for a previous class and found it to be far more user friendly and useful than a website that was recommended as an additional resource for crunching numbers; I had no idea how versatile Excel was. One disadvantage that I find when using Excel is that it can be extremely overwhelming and intimidating; the amount of cells alone gave me anxiety the first time I was introduced to it. I quickly learned that each cell is almost infinitely customizable and can be used as reference point when using formulas.

When I created my PowerPoint presentation, I was a bit nervous about it since it was my first time. I had some fun playing with the features and learning about animations, transitions and inserting icons. I was very impressed with how when using the animation pane, I was able to select how each side was activated, I chose the option to “start after previous” to avoid having to click to activate each part. That’s not to say that I do not see the purpose of clicking to activate each part of a slide as I have sat through my share of PowerPoint presentations at work and always wondered just how they did that. I found that with PowerPoint it is very easy to get lost in the customization aspect of it all, every single detail can be altered which I understand can make for creating amazing presentation but can might also create a distraction.

Instructor's feedback:

In today's business environment it is vital that you have a solid understanding of the Microsoft Office Applications. In fact, many employers assume this knowledge so much that it is not necessary to add it to your resume unless you feel the need. If you are interested in more training (free) I encourage you to review GCF Learnfree at the following website: https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/topics/office2016/

I am glad to have received this feedback because I instinctively add that I have a working knowledge of MS Word whenever preparing  resume, granted I have not done so in quite some time. I will likely explore the website provided in my spare time.