When thinking about going back to school there’s a few items your kiddos are going to need. Of course pens, folders and calculators are a must but did you ever think about needing software? So much of what we’re doing these days is online so why not update your software too.

Microsoft Office is one of my favorite software packs because it has so many useful tools. As a full time college student myself Microsoft Office makes my life easier. Programs like OneNote 2010 allow students to organize class research, notes, and ideas. With a quick search they’re able to access any information when needed, so say studying for a test!

While you’re creating presentations for your public speaking class did you know that with Windows Live Writer you can imbed those presentations right into a blog post. With Excel students can start to keep a budget, with Excel Mobile your student can also track how much they can spend on-the-go right form the mall.

Windows 7: Windows 7 is also great for students with things like the Windows Taskbar, Windows Search, Jump Lists and Preview all can provide you will easy access to your favorite files. Jump Lists is a great tool because it works simply by right clicking a program on the taskbar. So if you need quick access to that 30 page biology paper you’ve been  working on  it’ll happen with one click. Be the ultimate multitasker with Snap. Work in two windows side by side, and who knows maybe your student won’t get so distracted.The new Windows 7 Calculator can do more advanced math.

Maybe you have a student who’s going away to college, keep in touch with Windows Live Video Chat. It makes accessing and using video chat so easy. Plus Windows 7 makes it so easy to personalize their computer to the way they want it, it’s the ultimate way to make a statement.

I’m heading back to school next month after taking the summer off and now I have an updated copy of Office 2010 thanks to Microsoft. I know I’ll be using these programs a lot of the next few months and can say as a student having Microsoft Office is essential!!

Giveaway!

The kind folks at Microsoft are offering two of my readers their very own copy of Microsoft Office 2010. One copy will be a PC version, the other for Mac.

Entry: Tell me about how you use Office, and any tips for students going back to school. Also tell me which copy you’d like to win.

Extra Entry Methods:

• BLOG ABOUT IT!!! 5 entries.
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• Remember: List this giveaway on any contest site for 3 entries.
• You can always leave a comment on any non-giveaway post. (1 extra entry per post commented on. just go to “home” posts are up front, please comment on all new posts and leave your extra entry comment)

Giveaway ends Sep 10th