Can softwares installed in my computer be saved to USB flash drive?  

You can back up files (data, mp3, video and other files) in the CD, DVD or USB. But for soft wares it is not possible. Actually they have something like registries and all. Just backing up/copying will not be good. when u copy again they will not work. you need to install them again. thats the best option after your planned formatting.
there is one option which i have not tried. but i know it exists. if it is XP r.click on C drive and go to "properties". ther you can see "Backup drive". backup and save it to a drive. copy to a CD/DVD. then use it to restore the C drive. just plan well before following this.

You can save or backup your data like pictures, mp3, word documents, etc to your flash drive, but it won't work for softwares. If you have the install disc for your softwares, then don't bother, just install them once your dad is done re-formatting the PC. Besides if your dad knows what his doing, he will need to install the OS(Windows) back, and majority of all the softwares and drivers that comes along with the install disc, before you all can start using your PC again. Applications like yahoo messenger, skype, divx, and any other applications not found on your install disc pack, you need to go and download the installers from the net again, then re-install them on your pc. Merry Christmas amira_milka!

Most software installed in your computer cannot be saved to USB flash drive. The reason is because they rely on subroutines such as dynamic link libraries to run. There are also software which need to have its value recorded in the system registry. Microsoft Office for instance is an example.

Nevertheless there are programs which can be saved and run without the need for re-installation. An example is Print Artist. Old programming software like Borland C++ for Windows, Turbo Pascal for Windows, and LOGO will work fine. Many games software can be transferred without any problems.

I do not have a complete list and I do not reformat my hard disk every week so I do not remember all the software installed work without re-installation. What I normally do is to divide the hard disk into partitions. So is the need arises only the partition containing system files is reformatted. This is normally C partition. D is for programs and E for data and they are not touched. After a re-installation of OS and anti-virus program a full scan is carried out. After that folders containing programs which are known to require re-installation may be deleted. The rest would be tested one after another.

In conclusion there are programs which can be saved and later on run without any problems.

all the best,
rosdimy

yeah they can b
like from programs which are available on protableapps.com
u can install them on ur flash disk
happy lotting and have a nice day

Programs CAN be saved on a flash drive. You should save the installation files, if you don't have them, then you'll need to copy not only the programs files, but also the registry key, but that is more advanced procedure.