Five common classifications of application software are:

1. Word processing software: These enable the user to create and edit documents. E.g. MS Word

2. Spreadsheet software: These enable the user to work with numbers and carry out calculations by providing a cell/grid based interface. E.g. MS Excel

3. Presentation software: These enable the user to create and edit slide based presentations incorporating both text and visuals. E.g. MS Powerpoint

4. Database software: These enable the user to store, retrieve, and manioulate large amounts of data. E.g. MS Access

5. Multimedia software: These enable the user to create, edit, view and/or listen to video and audio files. E.g. Windows media player