Definition
In a computer application, a menu is a list of available commands or choices that a user can select to perform specific tasks. The menu is typically located below the title bar within an application window, known as the menu bar.
Structure
In Windows-based applications, menus generally include categories such as:
- File: Often contains commands such as New, Open, Close, Save, Save As, and Print.
- Edit: Includes options for Undo, Redo, Cut, Copy, Paste, and Select All.
- View: Provides settings related to how information is displayed within the application.
- Tools: Contains various utilities or configuration settings.
- Help: Offers support resources such as documentation, help topics, and about information.
Each of these menu items reveals further choices through mechanisms known as pull-down menus or drop-down menus.
Examples
File Menu (Typical Application)
- New: Create a new document or project.
- Open: Open an existing document.
- Close: Close the current document.
- Save: Save changes to the current document.
- Save As: Save the current document under a new name.
Edit Menu (Text Editor)
- Undo: Reverse the last action.
- Redo: Reapply the last action if it was undone.
- Cut: Remove the selected text and place it on the clipboard.
- Copy: Copy the selected text to the clipboard.
- Paste: Insert the clipboard content at the cursor position.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a menu bar?
A menu bar is a horizontal strip located at the top of an application window that displays various menu categories.
What is the difference between a pull-down menu and a drop-down menu?
Both terms are often used interchangeably to describe a secondary menu that appears when a user interacts with a main menu category. Pull-down focuses on a single click to show the menu items downwards, while drop-down suggests they reveal below the selected category.
How is a fly-out menu related to a pull-down menu?
A fly-out menu appears as an extension of a pull-down or drop-down menu, typically to the right, offering additional, grouped options.
Can menu items differ between applications?
Yes, menu items can vary significantly depending on the functionality and purpose of the application.
What role does the Help menu play in an application?
The Help menu provides resources like documentation, support topics, usage guides, and information about the application.
Related Terms
- Pull-Down Menu: A menu that appears below the menu item when it is clicked.
- Drop-Down Menu: Another term for pull-down menu.
- Fly-Out Menu: A sub-menu that expands out of an existing menu.
- Pop-Up Menu: A menu that appears upon right-click or other specific user actions.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- User Interface Design for Programmers by Joel Spolsky
- Designing Interfaces: Patterns for Effective Interaction Design by Jenifer Tidwell
- GUI Bloopers 2.0: Common User Interface Design Don’ts and Dos by Jeff Johnson
Fundamentals of Computer Menus: Communications Basics Quiz
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