You can make backup copies in two ways. You can save the document while you're using the application program, eject that disk, then save the document again on a second disk. Or you can copy the document onto a second disk after quitting the application by using the System Disk.

You should also make backup copies of your applications. However, don't be surprised if you can't duplicate every application you buy. Many manufacturers copy-protect (make it impossible to copy) their disk to protect themselves from software pirates, who illegally duplicate and distribute their applications. If you can't copy an application, the manufacturer generally provides one backup copy or tells you how to replace a damaged application program disk at a nominal cost.

Figure 2-8
Another reason for a backup copy

To edit a document that's stored on a disk, start up the application you used to create the document (a word processing application for a letter, a spreadsheet for a budget, and so on), and then instruct the application to get the document from the disk on which you saved it. (The manual that came with the application will tell you how to do this.) At your request, a copy of that document is loaded into the memory of the computer, and a portion of the document (whatever can fit) appears on the screen.

If you make changes to the document, and like what you've done, you have to save the revised version of the document on the disk. (If you forget to save it, your original document will still be on the disk, but it won't include any of your additions or changes.)

If you save the revised document without changing the name, the revised document replaces the original document on the disk. (See Figure 2-9.) Almost all applications warn you that there is already a document by that name on the disk and ask you to confirm that you want the new document to replace the old one (even if the new name is just the original name with a new version number), both the old version and the new will be on the disk.

Figure 2-9
Saving a revised document

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Chapter 2: Once Over Lightly