Katie typed a paper using Microsoft Word. Microsoft Word is a type of?

operating system
software ••
hardware
data storage device

correct

Microsoft Word is a type of software.

The correct answer is software. Microsoft Word is a software program that provides word processing functionality, allowing users to type and format documents. Software refers to the programs and applications that run on a computer, enabling it to perform various tasks, such as word processing, graphic design, or web browsing.

To determine the type of Microsoft Word, you can start by understanding the different categories of computer-related terms. In this case, you are given a list of options: operating system, software, hardware, and data storage device.

An operating system is a piece of software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It is a foundation for running other programs and applications but is not the type of software that Microsoft Word falls under.

Hardware comprises the physical components of a computer system, such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, and peripherals. Since Microsoft Word is not a physical component, it cannot be classified as hardware.

A data storage device is a physical device used to store and retrieve data, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), or USB flash drive. Microsoft Word is not a storage device but rather an application that can be installed and run on a storage device.

Therefore, the correct choice is software, as Microsoft Word is a software program used for word processing.