This digest begins by defining the concept of hypertext and describing the two types of hypertext--static and dynamic. Three prototype applications are then discussed: (1) Intermedia, a large-scale multimedia system at Brown University; (2) the Perseus Project at Harvard University, which is developing interactive courseware on classical Greek civilization using HyperCard; and (3) Project Jefferson at the University of Southern California, which has developed applications using the Apple Macintosh hardware and HyperCard software. Problems of hypertext systems, such as orientation to the database, cognitive overload, and compatibility, are considered. A few brief hypertext definitions are included. (6 references) (MES)