Book review: Teach Yourself Visually Windows XP Special Media Edition

Since their creation, the popularity of the Teach Yourself Visually books has expanded exponentially due to their simplicity and ease of use. Some people tend to digest information and instructions better if they are shown visually what to do instead of being presented with a text-based version describing the process. The series takes a more hands-on approach to all subjects, allowing readers to follow the action with screenshots, pictures and highlighted sections.

Covering both the Home and Professional versions, Windows XP Special Media Edition is a great tool for anyone wanting to learn some of the basic and not so basic media functions. Most of the applications that are described in depth are the standard programs that bundle with Windows XP — there’s no need to purchase additional software to create those stunning digital images or video.

The title begins with an introductory chapter on multimedia within XP and explains how to use images, video and audio files to your advantage. Connection of a digital camera or scanner is also covered, as are basic image altering, creating slide shows, downloading and recording audio files, and listening to Internet radio.

Some of the content may be very basic for Windows users with previous experience of the operating system, but it will give novices an appreciation of some of Windows XP’s functions. In no time at all, you can download data from your digital video camera, compose a small movie, create some effects and add your own music. The finished result is something you can be proud of.

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