ABSTRACT
The first computer-based word processors began appearing in newsrooms in the early to mid-1970s and news writing, reporting, and editing were changed forever. Word processors have rapidly become reporting tools as well as writing tools. Alongside these complex and powerful writing packages are products called personal information managers that offer superior resource management capabilities for reporters, photographers, graphics specialists, and editors. For most people around newsrooms, the use of word processing for writing is obvious, but these programs have powerful tools, such as macros that make a word processor an analytical tool as well. Table functions in word processors may be helpful utilities for reporters and editors, such as those on sports and business desks who must frequently work with tabular databases. Many word processors can use mail-merge tools with external databases within other programs. Form letter and memorandum templates can make correspondence tasks easier.
