Programs designed to perform specific tasks are known as

Programs written to carry out particular user jobs like writing or accounting are application software.

System software manages the machine itself rather than doing a user task.

Utility programs handle maintenance chores such as cleanup and backup.

The operating system is the master control program, not a task specific tool.

Word processors, spreadsheets and browsers are typical application programs.

Add-on: application software always runs on top of the operating system.