This article is a primer for educators hoping to choose instructional software for their classrooms. The following four basic principles that all quality educational software has in common are discussed: (1) an adherence to learning theory, including behavioral and cognitive theory; (2) employment of gaming features; (3) culturally sensitive content; and (4) the elicitation of an emotional response from the learner. In addition, a brief discussion of the instructor's responsibility in using software is presented. (Contains 12 references.) (Author/MES)