Word Processing System

Summary

This manual provides instructions for using the List Processing Package, a feature of Digital Equipment Corporation's Word Processing System. This package allows users to automate the creation of repetitive documents by merging a database of information (a "list") with a predefined template (a "form").

Key components and processes covered in the manual include:

• List Documents (Database): How to structure data into records, define fields using angle brackets (< >), and organize information for efficient merging.
• Form Documents: How to create "skeleton" templates that designate where specific data from the list should be inserted, including advanced formatting techniques like headers, trailers, pagination, and the use of invisible hyphens for better text alignment.
• Selection Specifications: How to define rules that filter which records are processed, allowing for conditional output (e.g., sending letters only to customers with overdue accounts). The manual explains how to test for phrases, numbers, and numeric ranges.
• Producing Output: Step-by-step procedures for running the List Processing Package, selecting printing options (direct printing or saving to a document), and verifying selection specifications to avoid errors.

The manual uses the ongoing example of a "Southport Book Store" to illustrate how these features work together to generate personalized form letters, mailing labels, and statistical tables.