Computer Fundamentals and Office Software
This domain tests basic hardware and software concepts, file management, and practical use of word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and email.
Core concepts
- Hardware versus software; input, processing, output, and storage; RAM versus ROM; file extensions.
- Save versus Save As; folder hierarchy; backup; caution with malware.
- Word: styles, tables, mail merge, page setup, print preview.
- Excel: cell references, ranges, formulas, relative versus absolute references, functions such as SUM, AVERAGE, IF.
- Email: To, Cc, Bcc, subject, attachment, netiquette.
Worked example
In Excel, to total marks in B2:B10, use =SUM(B2:B10). If you copy =B2C2 down a column, B2 and C2 change relatively; if the tax rate is in $F$1, use =B2$F$1 so the reference stays fixed. Reasoning: relative references adapt to the row, while absolute references lock the cell.
Traps
- Deleting a file when you meant to clear cell contents.
- Using spaces in file names sent by email.
- Forgetting to check print preview.
- Confusing Cc with Bcc and exposing addresses.
Key points are listed in the key_points field.