Since many of the sites that I used to refer listeners to regarding this subject have either disappeared or no longer have the information, I am starting a multi-part tip outlining the steps to reformat your computer.
AND BE SURE TO BACKUP ANYTHING YOU DON'T WANT TO LOSE PRIOR TO UNDERTAKING THE TASK! Please use this Tip as a guide and not the end all. Because of the vast differences in hardware and software, I cannot possibly cover every nuance. WARNING: I have done my best to outline the steps in this somewhat arduous task, but undertake this procedure at your own risk.