Computer Graphics

Many software applications are said to support computer graphics. For example, certain word processors let you draw or import pictures. Some database systems and spreadsheet programs let you display data in the form of graphs and charts. Graphs and charts are often referred to as business graphics.

Paint programs allow you to create rough freehand drawings. The images are stored as "bit maps" and can easily be edited.

Illustration/design programs support more advanced features than paint programs, particularly for drawing curved lines. The images are usually stored as "vectors". Illustration/design programs are often called draw programs.

Presentation graphics software lets you create bar charts, pie charts, graphics, and other types of images for slide shows and reports. The charts can be based on data imported from spreadsheet applications.

In general, applications that create graphics require a large amount of memory. The quality of most graphics is determined by their resolution -- how many points per square inch they can represent -- and their color capabilities.