Why does Ps open in such a strange way for me, with no work area, no options?

When I start Photoshop, I do not get the Work Area I see in the tutorials.

Instead, I get a menu along the top and along the left side, sometimes down the right side as well, with whatever is on my desktop the central area. What is going on? How can I get to the work space, or even the template options on Ps?

My Work Area shows up like this, with my desktop always visible:   Why can't I get the work area shown in most tutorials?

Thank you, SW