You can add memory and lessen your system's load to increase your computer's performance. But if you want to improve your productivity, add a second monitor. Researchers at Microsoft found that workers increased their productivity nine to 50 percent by adding a second or third monitor.

Consider your uses. A student can surf the Net on one monitor while writing a term paper on another monitor. Gamers can widen their view span. And teachers can enter grades on one while checking e-mail on the other.

It's also a great setup for editing digital photographs, video or audio files. One monitor can be used for the program's toolbars and windows; the other monitor can be used solely to work on the file. The possibilities are endless.

So what do you need to make it all happen? Obviously, you'll need an extra monitor. You might have an old CRT monitor collecting dust in your basement. If not, this is an excuse to buy that 19-inch flat panel monitor you've always wanted. Esthetics aside, you don't need two monitors of equal size and quality.

Your computer needs a video card that has two video outputs. If your computer was built within the past two years, it most likely has a standard VGA (Video Graphics Array) port as well as a DVI (Digital Visual Interface) port. If not, you can purchase a graphics card with two monitor outputs for as little as $100.