Word Processor vs Spreadsheet vs Presentation vs Database applications

Word processing applications such as Microsoft Word are great for those who would like to write an essay, book, journal, and more. It is best suited for such usage scenarios because it has many text formatting options, which makes it easy to write. "A word processor is a common computer application for creating formatted text. The formatted text refers to features of a document like margins, text size, bold text, italicized text, colors, number of columns, etc." (Vahid & Lysecky, 2017). Its disadvantage is that it does not have advanced data input and output capabilities. It also lacks the refined presentation options that other presentation apps have.

Spreadsheet applications, on the other hand, are best suited for inputting data and exporting results based on formulas you provide or creating charts. It has other uses, such as drawing graphs. "A spreadsheet application is a common computer application for representing tables of data like text or numbers, for using formulas to calculate data from other data (like sums or averages), and for creating graphical charts from data. "A spreadsheet application is a common computer application for representing tables of data like text or numbers, for using formulas to calculate data from other data (like sums or averages), and for creating graphical charts from data." (Vahid & Lysecky, 2017). Its disadvantage is that it does not have good text formatting or presentation capabilities.

Presentation applications are used to help the presenter present data easily and in an engaging and organized way. It can include text, pictures, videos, animations, and several themes suited for different occasions. It can be utilized for personal, school (present in a classroom, for example), or work use (in a meeting, for example). "A presentation app is a computer application used to create a slideshow of text and graphics, often with animation. A slideshow consists of a series of individual "slides". Work or school presentations are often accompanied by a slideshow to help the audience visualize information." (Vahid & Lysecky, 2017). It does not have adequate data management, input, and output capabilities. 

Database applications are used to store and track information. Such information can be stock availability, order numbers, or medical records, for example. Microsoft Access is a database application. Its disadvantages are that such applications are usually used on a dedicated computer designed to handle such tasks.

Microsoft Word is the application I would choose to do document my information about a day. It is the most versatile app of them all and includes a little bit of everything.

References:

Vahid, F., & Lysecky, S. (2017). Fundamentals of Information Technology & Literacy. Retrieved from: https://learn.zybooks.com/zybook/ASHFORDINT100AcademicYear2018/chapter/2/sectio n/9?modal_name=about-zybook