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com.put.er 25614-0002-01 n. often attrib (1646): one that computes; specif: a programmable electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data* |
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What a brief definition for something that has, in just a few decades, changed the way of life in industrialized societies! Computers touch all areas of our lives: paying bills, driving cars, using the telephone, shopping. In fact, it would be easier to list those areas of our lives that are not affected by computers. |
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It is sad that a device that does so much good is so often maligned and feared. How many times have you heard someone say, I'm sorry, our computer fouled things up or, I just don't understand computers; they're too complicated for me? The very fact that you are reading this book, however, means that you are ready to set aside prejudice and learn about computers. But be forewarned: This book is not just about computers in the abstract. This is a text to teach you how to program computers. |
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Much of human behavior and thought is characterized by logical sequences. Since infancy, you have been learning how to act, how to do things. And you have learned to expect certain behavior from other people. |
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A lot of what you do every day you do automatically. Fortunately, it is not necessary for you to consciously think of every step involved in a process as simple as turning a page by hand: |
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2. Move hand to right side of book. |
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3. Grasp top right corner of page. |
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4. Move hand from right to left until page is positioned so that you can read what is on the other side. |
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Think how many neurons must fire and how many muscles must respond, all in a certain order or sequence, to move your arm and hand. Yet you do it unconsciously. |
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*By permission. From Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Tenth Edition © 1994 by Merriam-Webster Inc. |
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