I used Open Office until about 2 years ago ( Guess they changed their name again ) and would recommend it for anyone who does not specifically need MS Office. Unfortunately for my school I need MS Office as the Instructors can tell if it was produced in a different program and will mark me down or even fail an assignment if I process it any other way. Luckily I got a free copy for being in school at the time so I didn't feel the pain of having to purchase it.