tips on switching over

Feature comparison of Word and OpenOffice Writer
If you want to switch to Linux, but have got used to MS Word, this is a handy table HERE mapping the features between the two.

make the first page a cover page, right-click the "default" in status bar.
insert footer/header based on this "First Page" or "default" setting. (paper orientation, too)

UNIX command prompt Keystrokes (Shortcuts)
New command prompt user of unix system will find THIS a very handy reference.