Which type of software would you categorize spreadsheet programs under?

Spreadsheet programs are classified as application software because they are designed to perform specific tasks that meet user needs, such as data manipulation, calculation, and analysis. Application software is developed to help users accomplish tasks ranging from personal productivity to business operations. In the context of spreadsheet programs, they serve as tools for users to create budgets, financial reports, and perform complex mathematical calculations with ease, thus streamlining processes and enhancing productivity.

In contrast, system software acts as a bridge between hardware and the user applications, facilitating the operation of the computer itself, while utility software provides maintenance and management functions for the computer, such as virus checking and disk management. Firmware refers to the permanent software programmed into a hardware device, which controls it at a very low level. Spreadsheet programs do not fit into these categories as their primary purpose is to assist users with specific tasks rather than manage hardware or provide core functionality.