No, you don't have to use the disc everytime, the programme is downloaded into your computer, and a handy icon sits on the desk top. The package comes with a very good book, with chapters that talk you through, step by step, but you would be well advised to work through these, and not try and skip ahead, or you will miss out on something you would need to know later. To sum up, the programme will do all you mentioned and lots more, but takes a little effort on your part to be able to make full use of it. Hope that helps. I got family members to buy it for me one Christmas. They didn't get a peep out of me over the whole holidays! I wonder if that's why they bought it?