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why is there both an apply button and an OK button. aren't they both the same?

Anonymous
2012-02-26T18:23:40+00:00

This question came up at a seniors computer class.

Windows for home | Other | Accessibility

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  1. Anonymous
    2012-02-26T18:27:39+00:00

    The Apply button applies the changes to the settings that have been made, but does not close the dialog box. The OK button also applies the changes to the settings, but in addition closes the dialog box.

    Apply is useful if you are trying out different settings and don't want to have to keep re-opening the dialog box.

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  1. Anonymous
    2012-02-26T19:00:14+00:00

    On Sun, 26 Feb 2012 18:23:40 +0000, gmorris wrote:

    This question came up at a seniors computer class. 

    No, they are different.

    "Apply" puts into effect the change you made.

    "OK" puts into effect the change you made and closes the dialog.

    But note that that last sentence, about "OK," is the way it's
    supposed to work; it's generally true, but it's not 100%. There's an
    occasional exception to that and in such a dialog, "OK" just closes
    the dialog and doesn't apply the change. So if you're not sure, it's
    safest to first click "Apply," and then "OK."

    Ken Blake, Microsoft MVP

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