There are just certian programs that you always reinstall EVERYTIME that you decide to format your hard drive. For ME these following programs are always at the top of my list and the first programs that i always install.

Keep in mind these programs are mostly Freeware or UNLIMITED use Shareware (never put demo crap here)

If the program is shareware/limited version, and you want the full version to "try out" look for it on Kazaa (here is a HINT always download KAZAA LITE it dont have spyware in it, and come with cheat software so you can download faster from peeps)

Copernic
LIMITED VERSION
Multi searching engine searching software
Ifran View
FREEWARE
A small quick image view/slideshow/simple edit/thumbnail program
ARJ Foulder
FREEWARE
Compression tool does ZIP & RAR
ArtPlus
LIMITED VERSION
Organization program address/daily/etc
Tweak 98
FREEWARE
Fine tune win 98 with minor but nice changes
WinTune
FREEWARE
Test your pc performance and compaire it online
Winamp
FREEWARE
Media Player Primary MP3, but now vids to!