(1)  In word processing and desktop publishing, layout refers to the arrangement of text and graphics. The layout of a document can determine which points are emphasized, and whether the document is aesthetically pleasing.
While no computer program can substitute for a professional layout artist, a powerful desktop publishing system can make it easier to lay out professional-looking documents. WYSIWYG helps layout considerably because it allows you to lay out a document on the display screen and see what it will look like when printed.

(2) In database management systems, layout refers to the way information is displayed. You can change the layout by selecting different fields.

Word processing is the phrase used to describe using a computer to create, edit, and print documents. Of all computer applications, word processing is the most common. To perform word processing, you need a computer, a special programcalled a word processor, and a printer. A word processor enables you to create a document, store it electronically on a disk, display it on a screen, modify it by entering commands and characters from the keyboard, and print it on a printer.

There are two types of cell references: relative and absolute. Relative and absolute references behave differently when copied and filled to other cells. Relative references change when a formula is copied to another cell. Absolute references, on the other hand, remain constant, no matter where they are copied.

Ring Topology

• Cable forms closed ring or loop with all computers and devices arranged along ring.
• Data Travels from device to device around entire ring, in one direction.
• Primarily is used for LAN's but also is used in WAN's.

Advantages:

• Data is quickly transferred.
• The transmission of data is relatively simple as packages travel in one direction only. 

Disadvantages:

• Data packets must pass through every computer between the sender and recipient therefore, this makes it slower.
• If any of the nodes fail then the ring is broken and data cannot be transmitted successfully.
•  It is difficult to troubleshoot the ring.

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Ring Topology

Star Topology

• All devices connect to a central device, called hub.
• All data transferred from one computer to another passes through hub. 

Advantages:

• Easy to install and wire.
• Security can be implement in the hub/switch.
• Easy to detect faults and to remove parts.

Disadvantages:

• Requires more cable length than a linear topology.
• If the hub or concentrator fails, nodes attached are disabled.
• More expensive than linear bus topologies because of the cost of the concentrators. 

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Star Topology