Application Software: Definition, Types, Functions and Examples
Application Software is one of the most important topics in computer fundamentals for competitive exams like JKSSB, SSC, Banking, and other Indian exams. Application Software refers to programs designed to perform specific tasks for users, such as writing documents, preparing presentations, browsing the internet, or managing data. Unlike system software, application software directly interacts with the user.
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Application Software plays a vital role in education, business, personal use, and professional work. Common examples include MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Chrome, Zoom, and VLC Media Player.
What is Application Software? (Definition)
Application Software is a type of software that performs specific user-oriented functions. These functions may be educational, business-related, or personal. Application software runs on top of system software and helps users complete their daily digital tasks efficiently.
Functions of Application Software
Application Software is used for performing many practical tasks, such as:
- Writing reports and documents
- Creating spreadsheets and tables
- Preparing presentations
- Manipulating images and multimedia
- Managing and storing records
- Calculating expenses
- Processing and managing data
- Developing websites
- Coordinating system resources
These functions make application software essential for students, teachers, offices, and organizations.
Types of Application Software
1. Word Processing Software
Word Processing Software is used to create, edit, format, and print text documents.
Examples:
MS Word, OpenOffice Writer, iWork Pages, WordPad, Notepad, FocusWriter
2. Spreadsheet Software
Spreadsheet Software helps in calculations, data analysis, and data organization in tabular form.
Examples:
Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, LibreOffice Calc, OpenOffice Calc, Lotus, iWork Numbers
3. Presentation Software
Presentation Software is used to create slide-based presentations for teaching, meetings, and seminars.
Examples:
Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, Prezi, Keynote, Slidebean, Visme
4. Multimedia Software
Multimedia Software is used to play audio and video files.
Examples:
VLC Media Player, Windows Media Player, Winamp, iTunes, Media Player Classic, AIMP
5. Web Browser Software
Web Browsers are application software used to access and browse the internet.
Examples:
Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Safari, Internet Explorer, UC Browser
6. Educational Software
Educational Software supports online learning, classroom management, quizzes, and assessments.
Examples:
Google Classroom, ProProfs, Schoology, TalentLMS, Edmodo, ClassDojo, Socrative
7. Graphics Software
Graphics Software is used for image editing, graphic designing, and visual content creation.
Examples:
Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, GIMP, Canva, Paint Shop, Camtasia
Special Categories of Application Software
8. Freeware Software
Freeware Software is available free of cost, but the source code is not available and cannot be modified.
Examples:
Skype, Adobe Reader, TeamViewer, Audacity, VLC Media Player, Recuva
9. Shareware Software
Shareware Software is provided free for a limited time or with limited features. After the trial period, payment is required.
Examples:
WinZip, Adobe Acrobat 8 Professional, GetRight, Fireball, Appearch, Adblock Plus
10. Open Source Software
Open Source Software allows users to view, modify, and redistribute the source code.
Examples:
Linux, Python, GIMP, LibreOffice, WordPress, MySQL, PHP, Blender, Audacity, GNU
11. Closed Source Software
Closed Source Software has hidden source code, and users cannot modify it. Only the developer controls it.
Examples:
Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, Adobe Reader, WinRAR, macOS, Skype, Google Earth
Difference Between Freeware and Open Source (Exam Tip)
- Freeware: Free to use, source code not available
- Open Source: Source code available, modification allowed
This difference is frequently asked in JKSSB MCQs.
Why Application Software is Important for Exams
Understanding Application Software helps students:
- Answer MCQs correctly
- Identify software categories
- Match examples with correct types
- Score better in computer awareness sections
Conclusion
Application Software is a core topic in computer fundamentals and plays a crucial role in exams like JKSSB. From word processing to simulation and educational tools, application software simplifies tasks and improves productivity. Knowing its definition, functions, types, and examples is essential for both exams and practical knowledge.
