What are programs in relation to a computer?

Programs are essentially a set of instructions that guide a computer on how to perform specific tasks. They tell the hardware what actions to take, whether it’s processing data, executing calculations, or managing file operations. These instructions can be written in various programming languages, and when executed, they allow users to interact with the computer to achieve desired outcomes, such as creating documents, playing games, or browsing the internet.

The other options refer to different components of a computer system. Storage devices are hardware used to save data, input devices are peripherals used to provide data to the computer (like a keyboard or mouse), and output devices are used to convey information from the computer to the user (like a monitor or printer). While these components play essential roles in a computer's operation, they do not embody the core function of programs, which is to outline the specific steps the computer must take to perform tasks.