Most software programs have more bells and whistles than we could ever possibly use. We're usually satisfied if we can master the basics without tearing our hair out along the way. While this approach takes care of our basic needs, we often end up missing out on features that might save us time or help us get things done in a better way.

Software developers certainly don't help. The days of printed manuals are pretty much gone. And who has the time or patience to wade through screen after screen of electronic help files and manuals, no matter how well organized and well written?

The Professor Teaches Office Super Set attempts to solve this dilemma by offering a collection of 45 tutorials on 10 CDs that cover beginner and advanced features in each of the programs that make up Microsoft Office. The tutorials also cover three Windows operating systems (Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, Windows 2000) and several HTML and image-editing programs, including Adobe Photoshop 7, Adobe Photoshop CS, Microsoft FrontPage 2002, and Microsoft FrontPage 2003. The tutorials also cover basic and advanced HTML editing topics.

Information is comprehensive without being overwhelming. The lessons on each CD use a similar interface that is easy to navigate. The first lesson on each CD starts with the very basics--how to open the program, how to use the wizards, how to use templates, how to create and save a document, and how to enter and format text. Voiceover instruction walks you through most of the lessons and provides additional help and information.

You can tackle topics in any order you like, and complete each lesson and course at your own pace. Quizzes help ensure that you absorbed the information. You can go back and review information at any time and as often as you like. You can also skip ahead if you already know some of the basics.

This bargain-priced bundle is so chock full of helpful information that it's worth buying even if you're only interested in one of the three topic areas.

Pros: An inexpensive, easy-to-use package that can help you get more out of Office and your operating system
Cons: No system is perfect, but considering all you get for your $40, you almost can't afford not to buy this bundle