The book that changed the way computer books are written and marketed has come out in a third edition. By and large, it's the same as the previous edition (advances in MS-DOS have not been numerous), but there is some new information here. Further, DOS for Dummies remains an entertaining book and if you use DOS, it's the book you want to assist you. The basic idea of this book is that you can identify a problem you're having with your computer, ranging from how to turn the thing on to how to back up only the files that have changed since the last backup. You can then turn to the relevant section--the table of contents is very detailed--read a few pages, carry out some procedure, and move on to the next problem. You'll find sections on hardware, file management, text editing, and software installation. Later chapters deal with troubleshooting.

The newest material in this release of DOS for Dummies deals with DOS 6.22 and the DOS-like shell that you can use under Windows 95 and Windows 98. For users of the latest versions of Windows, Gookin demonstrates some relevant procedures. But most of the coverage deals with DOS itself and programs that are designed to run under DOS. There's even stuff about WordStar here (it's a little-known fact of history that the Rosetta stone was written with WordStar).

DOS for Dummies is funny, too, in a wry sort of way. What kind of joke is appropriate to a section about parallel ports, anyway? The author manages to infuse practically every passage with humor. Other computer books should make an effort to take themselves less seriously. The verdict: if you're using DOS--and more of you are than the Windows people would have us believe--this book will provide you with valuable help. --David Wall


Review
“…excellent and fun to read…” (Mourne Observer & County Down News, 23 July 2003)


Review
“…excellent and fun to read…” (Mourne Observer & County Down News, 23 July 2003)


Book Description
Windows may rule the world of popular computing on PCs around the globe, but DOS still has a place in the hearts and minds of computer users who vaguely remember what a C prompt looks like. Even if DOS (with all its arcane commands and its drab, boring look) isn't your idea of the best way to get things done on a PC, you'll find plenty of fast and friendly help on hand with the third edition of DOS For Dummies.

Here's a plain-speaking reference guide to all the command-line stuff and nonsense that makes DOS work, whether you're a native DOS user or are an occasional dabbler who needs the operating system to run all those cool games under Windows.

DOS For Dummies, 3rd Edition, avoids all the technical jargon to cut to the heart of things with clear, easy-to-understand explanations and step-by-step help for Changing disks and drives Dealing with the DOS prompt Managing files Running DOS inside Windows Installing and running DOS-based software programs Working with the printer and serial ports Using the mouse and keyboard Troubleshooting problems Understanding DOS error messages

All the basic DOS commands, from APPEND to XCOPY, are demystified to make life in DOS much more bearable. This handy guide has plenty of helpful tips and tricks for bending DOS to your will, without having to dedicate your life (and all your free time) to mastering this little corner of the PC.

Author Dan Gookin's first edition of DOS For Dummies became an international best-seller. He considers himself a computer "guru" whose job it is to remind everyone that computers are not to be taken too seriously. His approach to computers is light and humorous, yet very informative. Gookin mixes his knowledge of computers with a unique, dry sense of humor that keeps you informed – and awake.


Book Info
Presents clear explanations & complete coverage of all versions of DOS, as well as DOS under Windows 98. Paper. CD-ROM included.


From the Back Cover
"This is the best book ever written for a beginner." Chicago Tribune Run DOS applications on your Windows PC Your first aid kit for dealing with DOS The fun and easy way to access legacy files and applications Before Windows, there was DOS. And with just a few mouse clicks, any Windows PC can revert to the original "Disk Operating System" from Microsoft. This friendly guide — the first-ever For Dummies® title — shows you how to work with DOS to resurrect all those old files, applications, and games. Discover how to: Operate your PC in the DOS mode Share data between DOS and Windows programs Understand all those DOS prompts and commands Deal with error messages Run DOS games without hassles The Dummies Way™ Explanations in plain English "Get in, get out" information Icons and other navigational aids Tear-out cheat sheet Top ten lists A dash of humor and fun Get smart! www.dummies.com Register to win cool prizes Browse exclusive articles and excerpts Get a free Dummies Daily™ e-mail newsletter Chat with authors and preview other books Talk to us, ask questions, get answers


About the Author
Dan Gookin has written more than 30 bestselling computer books, including PCs For Dummies®, Buying a Comptuter For Dummies®, Illustrated Computer Dictionary For Dummies®, and Word 2000 For Windows® For Dummies®.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Discover why millions of computer users trust Dan Gookin to demystify DOS and communicate the essentials of computing. His clear explanations and down-to-earth style make exploring this operating system painless -- even fun! With complete coverage of all versions of DOS, as well as DOS under Windows 98, DOS For Dummies, 3rd Edition (the latest edition of this best-selling guide), offers frustrated DOS users more help than ever before.

Inside, find helpful advice on how to Graps the facts and features of MS-DOS in Windows 98 Share data between DOS programs and Windows -- easily Find that lost file and retrieve your program if it crashes Handle error messages in DOS -- without panicking Work with all versions of DOS Discover more about modems and DOS utilities Understand complex terminology with clear explanations in a glossary of terms Run programs directly from the DOS prompt

SYNOPSIS