Warm-up (30 seconds): Think about what happens to your work if you close your word processor without saving. Where does it go?

This lesson adds to your Digital Portfolio — today's artifact is proof you've saved your Project Brief in three different locations.

RAM vs Storage

• RAM = computer's short-term memory. Everything disappears when you turn off the computer.
• Storage = where files live permanently (hard drive, USB stick, cloud).

Three Storage Types You'll Use Today

• Local storage = Documents folder on your computer
• USB/removable = Portable storage (we'll simulate with a subfolder)
• Cloud storage = OneDrive (Microsoft) or Google Drive — accessible from any device

Why This Matters for Your Project

Your major LCA project will span several weeks. Cloud backup means you never lose a week's work, even if your laptop breaks.

Create a sample LCA Project Brief document and save it in three different locations to understand storage types.

1. Screenshot Practice (Do This First)

Practice taking one screenshot showing your {{code:PracticeBrief-Local.docx}} file:

2. Find Your Real Project Brief

If you cannot find your Project Brief from Lesson 1:

• Use search bar in file manager (type "Project" or "Brief")
• Check {{code:Documents}}, {{code:USB-SIM}}, or cloud storage
• If still missing: Create new document titled "My LCA Project Brief" with 3-4 bullet points about your project idea

3. Quick Recap: Working with Existing Files

4. Independent Practice

1. Save your actual Project Brief to three locations:
   • {{code:MyProjectBrief-Local.docx}} → {{code:Documents}}
   • {{code:MyProjectBrief-USB.docx}} → {{code:USB-SIM}}
   • {{code:MyProjectBrief-Cloud.docx}} → Cloud storage
2. Take 3 screenshots (one per location) showing file in its folder
3. Create {{code:Storage-Proof.docx}}
4. Paste screenshots + captions:
   • 'Local storage — accessible only on this computer'
   • 'USB simulation — portable storage'
   • 'Cloud storage — accessible anywhere with internet'
5. Save to Digital Portfolio folder

Success criteria:

• ✅ Three screenshots showing files in their folders (path visible)
• ✅ Clear captions explaining storage types
• ✅ Document saved to Digital Portfolio