application-software-file-types-and-formats

Introduction to Application Software File Types and Formats

• Microsoft Office popularized productivity software bundles.

• Although not the only option, it dominates the market; businesses expect proficiency in it.

• Productivity software creates information in various formats (charts, graphs, slideshows, etc.).

1. What is a File Type?

• Definition: A file type or file format indicates the kind of data a file contains and specifies how it’s displayed by software.

• Identification: In Microsoft Windows, file types are recognized by file extensions (e.g., '.ppt' for PowerPoint presentations).

• Example: A file named "windows" with the extension ".ppt" is identified as a presentation file.

• File Extensions: Typically one to three characters long, though some formats (like .html, .docx) exceed this.

2. Common File Types

• The file type indicates how a program structures and displays the file's contents.

• Native File Types: The type directly used by an application (e.g., .doc for Microsoft Word).

• Example: Microsoft productivity software and their common native file types:

  • Microsoft Word: .doc, .docx, .rtf

  • Microsoft PowerPoint: .ppt, .pptx

  • Microsoft Excel: .xls, .xlsx

  • Microsoft Access: .accdb, .mdb

• Foreign File Types: Not directly used during document creation. They may cause issues in complete or accurate display when opened in non-native software.

3. Data and File Types

• Importance of accuracy in choosing the right file type for data display and correct application usage.

• Associations between data types and file extensions:

  • Text: .asc, .doc, .docx, .msg, .txt, .wpd, .wps

  • Sound: .aac, .au, .mid, .mp3, .ra, .snd, .wma, .wav

  • Image: .bmp, .eps, .gif, .jpg, .pict, .png, .tif

  • Database: .xml, .tar, .sql, .db, .dbf, .dat, .csv

  • Video: .avi, .mpg, .mov, .wmv

  • Computer Program: .bat, .com, .exe

  • Presentation: .ppt, .pptx, .pps, .key, .odp

  • Spreadsheet: .xls, .xlsx, .xlr, .ods

• File formats instruct software how to display contents accurately.

Summary

• Understanding file types and extensions is essential for effectively using application software.

• Native and foreign file types influence how well programs interact with documents.

Terms to Know

• File Type: The kind of data a file contains, indicated by its extension.

• File Extension: A suffix that classifies the file type for the operating system.

• Native File Type: The type directly supported by an application.

• Foreign File Type: Not natively supported by an application.