for computer savvy Ledgies...

[JazmenFlowers]

I am new to Mac...just got my first in December and so far it has been hell trying to figure out where everything is and how everything works, but I love it. I've used it only for internet surfing, iPod/iTunes and managing my photos. I start grad school in August and need to get a laptop, but I'm considering getting a Windows-based laptop just because I don't know if it will frustrate me to deal with my lack of knowledge while writing papers and keeping up with my research. How difficult is the word processing software to figure out? Any suggestions, tips?

Have any of you used Tiger (some new software for Mac, not exactly sure what it is) and is it worth it?

Thanks very much!