purpose Software :    This is the software that is APPLICABLE and useful to a wide variety of users.  This software is available for all kinds of computers on SMALL or big size computers, either scientific or non-scientific personal computers.    General purpose software is usually readily available in the software shops, or online.  They may be free or charged/licensed.  General purpose software have a LOT of features and functions so that a wide variety of consumers are benefited.   Usually these general purpose softwares are designed, developed and tested on many platforms and so very few bugs will be present on the softwares.  These softwares have many online discussion forums available on internet for support.  They could also have many books, online guides etc. for help.   Personal information keeper software, SPREAD sheet software, word processor (editor) software, graphics and drawing software, presentation software are some types of general purpose softwares.   Examples are MS word, Star office, MS office, PAINT, powerpoint etc.