How should I prepare my PC for the upgrade to Windows 10?

Samantha is running Windows 8.1 and wants to know what will happen to her programs, personal files and antivirus software

I'm currently using Windows 8.1 and I'm planning to upgrade to Windows 10. I have few questions: Will my files be deleted - documents, pictures, videos, music, etc? What will happen to Microsoft Office? Do I have to re-install it? What will happen to my anti-virus (I'm using ESET Smart Security)? Samantha M

If the upgrade goes smoothly, all your programs and personal files should remain in place - with a few exceptions, which I'll mention later. However, there are several things you can do to help the upgrade to go as smoothly as possible, and you need to take precautions in case it goes wrong.