error message when installing software

[absolute beginner]

I'm getting an error message while trying to install new software with the software centre. the message says the previous installation failed and that i have to repair it before i can install or remove any programs and i don't know how to do it can anyone help?

[dino99]

instead of using "software center" goto : system admin synaptic and select your package from there

how to repair with a console (ctrl+alt+f2):

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install -f
sudo dpkg --configure -a

[redshoes702]

Dino99 - I have same problem and have tried to follow your advice, but I cannot find the opgrade package. How do I find it? The sudo commands does not lead til upgrade! Thanks for your help. Per