Basic Computer Knowledge
What is tested
Basic Computer Knowledge covers hardware, software, operating-system tasks, file management, word processing, spreadsheets, internet and email use, and basic security. For an office subordinate role, the practical focus is handling files, entering data, printing, saving records, and recognising unsafe links or attachments.
Core concepts
- Hardware is physical equipment such as CPU, monitor, keyboard, printer, and scanner; software is the set of instructions, such as the operating system and applications.
- RAM is volatile working memory; storage such as a hard disk or SSD is non-volatile.
- A file has a name and extension; a folder groups files. Copy keeps the original, cut removes it after paste.
- Common shortcuts: Ctrl+C copy, Ctrl+X cut, Ctrl+V paste, Ctrl+S save, Ctrl+P print, Ctrl+Z undo.
- In a spreadsheet, a formula begins with =; a range such as A1:A5 refers to cells A1 through A5.
- Email safety: check the sender, avoid unknown attachments, and never share passwords.
Worked example
In a spreadsheet, cells A1 to A5 contain 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50. What does =SUM(A1:A5) return? Reason: SUM adds all numbers in the range from A1 to A5, so the result is 150. If the formula is copied to another row, relative references shift unless dollar signs make them absolute, as in $A$1:$A$5.
Traps that cost marks
Do not confuse Save with Save As; Save As creates a new copy or changes format. Do not call RAM permanent storage. Do not open unexpected attachments. In Excel, do not type text and expect it to calculate; formulas need = and correct cell references.