This is for those of you who have thought of switching to linux but want use windows programs.
first thing you'll need is WINE, I will give instructions for ubuntu based distros if you are using something else download the respective package

first open the terminal
note: everything is case sensitive
then type: sudo add-apt-repository ppa:ubuntu-wine/ppa

next type: sudo apt-get update

now install by typing: sudo apt-get install wine1.3

also not all programs work in wine but a lot do, if your's doesn't work try to find an open alternative.
to see if your program works go to the wine app database if your's isn't listed just try, you might be the first one to test it.