This will help people who make the transition from Windows or Mac to Linux: it is written under an open source license and is free for you to download, read, modify and share.

The Getting Started with Ubuntu 10.04 manual will help you become familiar with everyday tasks such as surfing the web, listening to music and scanning documents. With an emphasis on easy to follow instructions, it is suitable for all levels of experience.

Contents:

• Prologue
  • Welcome
  • Ubuntu philosophy
  • A brief history of Ubuntu
  • Is Ubuntu right for you?
  • Contact details
  • Conventions used in this book

1. Installation
   • Getting Ubuntu
   • Minimum system requirements
   • Installing Ubuntu
2. UbuntuDesktop
   • Understanding the desktop
   • Managing windows
   • Switching between open windows
   • Using the Applications menu
   • Using the System menu
   • Browsing files on your computer
   • Nautilus file browser
   • Searching for files on your computer
   • Customizing your desktop
   • Accessibility
   • Managing your computer
   • Getting help
3. Working with Ubuntu
   • Getting online
   • Browsing the web
   • Reading and composing email
   • Staying organized
   • Using instant messaging
   • Microblogging
   • Viewing and editing photos
   • Watching videos and movies
   • Listening to audio and music
   • Working with documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
   • Taking notes
   • Ubuntu One
     • Setting up UbuntuOne
     • Ubuntu One Preferences
     • More information
4. Hardware
   • Using your devices
   • Hardware identification
   • Displays
   • Connecting and using your printer
   • Sound
   • Burning CDs and DVDs
   • Using a webcam
   • Scanning text and images
   • Other devices
5. Software Management
   • Software management in Ubuntu
   • Using the Ubuntu Software Center
   • Managing additional software
   • Synaptic Package Manager
   • Updates and Upgrades
6. The Command Line
   • Introduction to the terminal
   • Ubuntu filesystem structure
   • Getting started with the command line
   • Introducing sudo
   • Managing software through the terminal
7. Security
   • Why Ubuntu is safe
   • Basic Security concepts and procedures
   • System updates
   • Users and groups
   • Setting up a secure system
8. Troubleshooting
   • Resolving problems
   • Troubleshooting guide
   • Getting more help
9. Learning More
   • What else can I do with Ubuntu?
   • Open Source software
   • Distribution families
   • 32-bit or 64-bit?
   • Finding additional help and support

• License
  • Creative Commons Notice
• Glossary
• Credits
  • Team Leads
  • Authors
  • Editors
  • Designers
  • Developers
  • Translators
  • Special thanks
• Index

You can download the manual from http://ubuntu-manual.org/downloads .