A file system shell is provided. One aspect of the shell provides virtual folders which expose regular files and folders to users in different views based on their metadata instead of the actual physical underlying file system structure on the disk. Users are able to work with the virtual folders through direct manipulation (e.g., clicking and dragging, copying, pasting, etc.). Filters are provided for narrowing down sets of items. Quick links are provided which can be clicked on to generate useful views of the sets of items. Libraries are provided which consist of large groups of usable types of items that can be associated together, along with functions and tools related to the items. A virtual address bar is provided which comprises a plurality of segments, each segment corresponding to a filter for selecting content. A shell browser is provided with which users can readily identify an item based on the metadata associated with that item. An object previewer in a shell browser is provided which is configured to display a plurality of items representing multiple item types.

File system shell

A system and method for filtering and organizing items from computer memories based on common elements. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, filters are provided for manipulating the items. The filters are essentially tools for narrowing down a set of items. In one embodiment, the filters are dynamically generated based on the properties of the separate items. The system utilizes virtual folders. The virtual folders expose regular files and folders to users in different views based on their metadata instead of the actual physical underlying file system structure on the disk. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, quick links are provided. In one embodiment, quick links are a set of predefined links (e.g., located on the left side of the display) that can be clicked on to generate useful views of the sets of items. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, libraries are provided. Libraries consist of large groups of usable types of items that can be associated together.

System and method for filtering and organizing items based on common elements

In an electronic file system, preview information is provided to the user during a drag operation of a selected object onto a target object. The information indicates what type(s) of action is to be taken should the selected object be dropped onto the target object. The action(s) to be taken may depend upon the type of the selected object and/or the type of the target object. For example, where the selected object is an item and the target object is a persisted auto-list, the action may include adding, removing, or modifying one or more properties of the selected object to conform to one or more criteria defined by the persisted auto-list. Also, numerical feedback may be provided to the user where multiple objects are selected. For example, where seven objects are selected, the textual number “7” may appear next to the cursor.

Rich drag drop user interface

A computer-implemented method is described for instant messaging comprising: categorizing two or more instant messaging contact names into a single meta contact; receiving a request to transmit an instant message directed to the meta contact; selecting one of the two or more instant messaging contact names within the meta contact to which to transmit the instant message based on a specified prioritization scheme.

System and method for managing contacts in an instant messaging environment

Computer system navigation tools provide “links” to various different files, lists, folders, and/or other storage elements and allow users to organize files, e.g., by hierarchical properties, lists, auto lists, folders, and the like. Such systems and methods allow users to assign properties to a file (optionally in a hierarchical manner), to change assigned properties, to search, view, and retrieve information based on the assigned properties, and the like.

Systems, methods, and user interfaces for storing, searching, navigating, and retrieving electronic information

From the Publisher:
Microsoft Windows XP Inside Out is the foremost reference to Windows XP for PC "super users". The book provides the information advanced user really need with no beginner content included. Inside Out is designed to help useres build on what they already know about Windows and quickly dive into what's new. Packed with hundreds of timesaving tips, troubleshooting techniques, and workarounds, this book focuses on doing more and getting more from your PCincluding how to put the rich integration of devices, applications, and Web services in Windows XP to work. Also included is a CD-ROM that holds an electronic version of the book's text, handy Web links, sample macros and code, tutorials, utilities, and additional third party software. Discover the best and fastest ways to perform everyday tasks, and challenge yourself to new levels of Windows mastery!

The foremost reference for PC power users who want to take command of Windows XPfrom the inside out!

Focused on the needs of advanced users, this book includes a wealth of timesaving tips and tricks, troubleshooting techniques, indexes and screenshots, plus a CD-ROM featuring an easy-search, easy-print eBook, Microsoft and third party tools, utilities, demos and more!
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* No beginner-level tutorial, this book shows how to accomplish sophisticated tasks with the enhanced features, functions, and tools in Windows XP

* CD-ROM features sample macros, Web links, utilities, eBook, and more!

Microsoft Windows XP Inside Out

From the Publisher:
All-star author Ed Bott (PC Computing senior editor) understands business users and how they want to be productive without becoming hard core computer geeks. In this book, you'll quickly find all of the information you need to be productive in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Outlook, without extra information that you won't use. With this you'll easily create professional documents in Word, build powerful Excel spreadsheets, prepare killer PowerPoint presentations, and get your time and email organized with Outlook. 
Tame pesky Office 2000 features like the Office Assistant and clipboard to make Office 2000 applications work quickly and efficiently for you See how to detect and avoid dangerous and destructive macro viruses that destroy your data and waste your time Step up to the new features of Office 2000 that will be the most useful for you including better web publishing in all Office applications

Special Edition Using Microsoft Office 2000

Microsoft Windows Security Inside Out for Windows XP and Windows 2000

From the Publisher:

With this edition of Special Edition Using Office XP there is a continual emphasis on realistic applications and uses of the program features. While there are many other big books in the Office market today, there are few that tailor coverage uniquely for the intermediate to advanced Office user as Special Edition Using does, delivering more focused value for the customer. It has been updated to reflect Office XP's Smart tags, collaboration features, speech and dictation tools, built-in recovery features, "add network place" wizard and much more

Special Edition Using Microsoft Office XP

Learn how to conquer Windows Vista-from the inside out! This book packs hundreds of timesaving solutions, troubleshooting tips, and workarounds, all in concise, fast-answer format. Includes a companion CD.

Ed Bott

Papers

Microsoft Windows XP Inside Out

Special Edition Using Microsoft Office 2000

Microsoft Windows Security Inside Out for Windows XP and Windows 2000

Special Edition Using Microsoft Office XP

Windows Vista Inside Out