Microsoft Press Introduces Field Guides to the 'Computing Environment'

All-New Illustrated Quick Reference Series Provides Fast, Easy Answers

Redmond, WA--March 7, 1994--Field Guides--the next generation of colorful,
easy-to-use, go-anywhere computing guides from Microsoft Press--arrive in
book and software stores everywhere this week.

Field guides are usually associated with identification handbooks to the
flora, fauna, and insect life of the planet. These colorful tote-alongs by
Roger Tory Peterson, the Audubon Society, and others are the beloved
companions of hikers, birders, and armchair naturalists everywhere. The
more popular topics covering birds, flowers, and trees sell hundreds of
thousands of copies with each new edition.

"We designed the Microsoft Press Field Guides to be as informative and
delightful as a traditional field guide," said Elton Welke, Microsoft
Press Publisher. "They provide easy access to information with a colorful
touch and lots of illustrations. The subject just happens to be the world
of computer software rather than the physical world. It may sound a little
goofy, but it works."

One of the many elements that help the concept succeed is the "Tipmeister"
the computing expert in safari gear who graces every Field Guide cover.
This friendly character offers valuable tips, advice, and even the
occasional lame joke while safely leading users through spreadsheet
jungles and around word processing pitfalls.

And while they offer quick, reliable answers in a lighthearted vein, Field
Guides are anything but lightweight. These task-oriented books are
deceptively comprehensive yet explain things in a way that even a beginner
can understand. For some computer users, Field Guides may be the only
computer books they'll ever need.

Other design and editorial features include:

* Crisp screen illustrations that show how the reader's computer
  screen should look.
* Step-by-step instructions to help users accomplish exactly what
  they want to do.
* An alphabetically organized section to make it easy to find
  information fast.
* User-friendly cross-referencing icons that show how to "track
  down" related topics for more details.
* A comprehensive index to help readers locate the exact spot to
  find the information they need.
* And of course, along the way, the "Tipmeister" helps users work
  smarter, faster--and steer clear of danger.

Field Guides are ideal for quick and easy lookups at home or in the office.
Their convenient size and handy organization make it easy to find answers
right away--without having to wade through a much larger text. On the
road, Field Guides slip easily into a briefcase or next to a laptop--ready
to consult at a moment's notice. There's even a special troubleshooting
section to help computing "road warriors" pull themselves out of tight
spots.

Availability and Pricing The first two books in the Field Guide
series--Microsoft Excel 5 for Windows (1-55615-579-4) and Microsoft Word 6
for Windows (ISBN 1-55615-577-8) are available now and cover the two
bestselling programs for Microsoft Windows. Field Guides covering
Microsoft Windows 3.1, MS-DOS 6.2, Microsoft Access 2, and Microsoft Works
3 for Windows will be available this spring. Each book has a suggested
retail price of $9.95 ($12.95 Canada). Field Guides are displayed in the
"Quick Reference" areas of computer book sections.

Microsoft Press is the independent book publishing division of Microsoft
Corporation and the leading publisher of quality computer books about
Microsoft products. Microsoft Press books are available wherever better
computer books are sold. For a Microsoft Press catalog, call
l-800-MSPRESS.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in
software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of
products and services for business and personal use, each designed with
the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take
advantage of the full power of personal computing every day.

Microsoft Press, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052-6399
206-882-8080,  800-MSPRESS

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