Computer Knowledge and Typing Proficiency
What is tested
Computer Knowledge covers fundamentals - hardware, software, memory units, input/output devices, operating-system basics, MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint, internet and email, and basic cyber safety. Typing proficiency tests speed with accuracy; the notification for your cycle states the required speed (commonly 35 wpm English or 30 wpm Hindi), so verify it before the skill test.
Points that recur
- Memory: 1 KB = 1024 bytes, 1 MB = 1024 KB; RAM is volatile, ROM is not.
- Shortcuts: Ctrl+S save, Ctrl+P print, Ctrl+Z undo, Ctrl+F find, F7 spell check in Word, F5 starts a slideshow.
- Excel: a formula begins with '=', SUM/AVERAGE/COUNT work on ranges, absolute references use $.
- File extensions: .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .pdf.
- Email: To, Cc (visible copy) and Bcc (hidden copy); never share OTPs or passwords.
Worked example
A candidate types 1,750 words in 50 minutes with 25 errors. Gross speed = 1750 ÷ 50 = 35 wpm. Net speed = (1750 − 25) ÷ 50 = 34.5 wpm. Most tests round down, crediting 34 wpm - two words below the gross figure. At the margin, accuracy is worth more than raw speed.
Traps that cost marks
- Backspace is disabled in many typing tests, so every error stays on record.
- Practising on one keyboard layout and sitting the test on another.
- Watching the screen instead of the copy while typing, which breaks rhythm.
- Confusing bit with byte, or hardware with software, in one-mark questions.
Practise 15 minutes of timed typing daily and record both gross and net speed.