Software classification: application software.

The idea

Application software is the category of program that exists to carry out a task the user actually wants done, rather than to keep the machine itself running. Word processors, spreadsheets, web browsers, image editors, media players and games are all application software: each takes input from the user, processes it and produces output such as a document, a calculated total or a displayed web page. The key test is purpose. If the program helps the user complete a job, create content, communicate or be entertained, it is application software. If it instead manages hardware, memory, files or provides the environment in which other programs run, it belongs to system software. A useful method is to ask what would be lost if the program were removed: losing a word processor removes a tool for the user, while losing the operating system stops everything working.

What earns the marks

• Application software is software designed to let the user perform a task or produce something useful, for example writing a document, editing an image or browsing the web.
• Examples include word processors, spreadsheets, web browsers, presentation software, image editors, media players and games.
• Application software depends on system software, particularly the operating system, to run; it is not itself responsible for managing hardware or memory.
• The classification test is purpose: software that serves the user's task is application software, whereas software that manages the computer system and provides a platform for other programs is system software.
• Application software can be general-purpose (for example a spreadsheet used for many different jobs) or special-purpose (for example a program that only calculates payroll).

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Treating the operating system as application software because the user interacts with it.

  Put it right: The operating system manages resources and provides a platform, so it is system software.

• Assuming any program with a graphical window is application software.

  Put it right: The classification depends on purpose, not on appearance.

• Thinking application software manages memory or hardware.

  Put it right: Those jobs belong to system software, and application software relies on it.

• Giving only one example and no reason.

  Put it right: A classification answer should state the purpose that makes the example application software.

Exam tips

• Anchor every answer on purpose: say what the software lets the user do, then contrast it with software that manages the system.
• Use two or three named examples and add a short reason for each rather than listing names alone.
• When a question asks you to classify a named program, state the category and justify it with the program's function, not its brand.