Newbie build help - NON GAMING

[Laborist]

Need help building a PC!I want to build a PC instead of buy one. I'm pretty sure most of you guys will have an easy time with me since I don't care about gaming at all.

I'm in a master's program and do a lot of research, writing papers, powerpoints, etc.

I want a PC that's fast, and will allow me to multitask with several programs open and a good 20 browser windows/tabs open. No gaming necessary -- only gfx requirement is that I can use dual monitors. Prefer an SSD because of speed. Budget would be best under $500, but the cheaper the better!

 

[Laborist]

So, in doing more research, I'm learning that it isn't really worth it to build a non-gaming PC. Most pre-built PCs will get the job done for cheaper than I can build. Having said that -- does anyone have recommendations?