Get a Free Book about Microsoft Office 2010

Like a train on a somewhat unpredictable schedule, a new version of Office is rolling down the tracks, headed for your office. According to the schedule board, you should expect to see Office 2010 available in about six months. But you don't need to wait that long -- you can actually test drive the beta today.

If you want to learn more about the new features in Office 2010 -- to get more out of the beta trial or to see if it's worth making the upgrade next year -- then you'll want to check out a free 200-page e-book from Microsoft Press.

First Look Microsoft Office 2010 is a surprisingly detailed free book that covers all of the key applications in the suite.

The 10MB PDF file is a complete Microsoft Press book, written by Katherine Murray. 14 chapters include such topics as what's changed in 2010, getting started with the suite, and chapters dedicated to each program (including OneNote, SharePoint WorkSpace, and Publisher), and even collaborating and sharing data across programs.

First Look isn't going to replace a comprehensive title like the trusty Word 2010 Bible (full disclosure: which I'm tech reviewing for Wiley), but it's a great way to immerse yourself in Office 2010, for free.

Dave Johnson was employed by Microsoft Corporation at the time this article was written.