By Ric Manning
Gannett News Service

Back when a personal computer could make even a Ph.D. feel stupid, a savvy publisher came up with the idea of technical books written for nontechnical people.

The books boiled computer jargon down to the essentials and put it in plain English that was so simple, even a dummy could understand it.

The " ... For Dummies" books were an instant success, and the concept was quickly expanded to cover a wide variety of topics.

Books, audio CDs and DVDs in 39 languages that cover more than 750 subjects are sold in 90 countries.

Many deal with computer-related subjects, such as wireless networking or Java programming. But you can also find a "Dummies" book on almost any topic that requires specialized knowledge.

Software publisher Anuman Interactive took the concept into the realm of home software last month with a line of titles under the "Dummies" umbrella. The series covers digital photography, genealogy, typing instruction, home finances, job hunting and making greeting cards.

None of the programs breaks new ground. The manuals cover the essentials in less than 150 pages, and they are well-organized, easy to understand and loaded with tips.

The other advantage is price. Each program in the series costs $19.95. That's pretty attractive compared with $50 for Quicken, $60 for Family Tree Maker or $80 for Paint Shop Pro.

If you don't plan to make a career out of printing greeting cards or just need one quick resume, taking the Dummies option can look pretty smart.

Here's a closer look.

• Digital Photos for Dummies can import images from most digital cameras. Once images are loaded, it provides the most useful tools for cropping, enhancing color, removing red-eye and printing pictures.

• Family Tree for Dummies lets you organize family information, including photos, and print out simple family trees. Your information can be saved in the GEDCOM format, which can be read by more sophisticated genealogy programs.

• Greeting Cards for Dummies offers templates for every occasion, from birthdays and anniversaries to same-sex weddings. The wizard guides you through all the steps, from entering your own text and photos through printing in different formats.

• Home Budget for Dummies doesn't try to compete with Quicken or Microsoft Money. It won't balance your checking account or track an investment portfolio. It will create a simple budget by comparing income and expenses.

• Typing Tutor for Dummies uses games and exercises to teach you key locations and increase your typing speed. The program shows you your typing strengths and weaknesses and has an option that will track your progress.

• Resumes & Cover Letters for Dummies has forms that help you organize your life into a neat little two-page summary and write a job-seeking letter.