Which of the following best describes application software?

Application software is designed specifically to help users perform tasks or solve problems, distinguishing it from system software, which manages hardware and system resources. For instance, applications such as word processors, spreadsheets, and graphic design tools allow users to create documents, analyze data, and produce visual content, respectively. This focus on user-specific functionalities is what defines application software and makes it essential in daily personal and business operations.

The other categories mentioned do not focus on user tasks. Software managing hardware resources refers to system software that orchestrates how hardware components work together. Operating system functions, like managing BIOS settings, pertain to system-level operations rather than user applications. Lastly, controlling system settings is another element of system software, which is distinct from the goal of application software to provide user-oriented functionality. Thus, the best description of application software is indeed its role in performing specific tasks for users.