Basic Computer Knowledge
This domain tests everyday computer literacy needed in a Gram Panchayat office: hardware, operating system, office files, internet, email, e-governance portals and basic safety. Expect matching, shortcut and true/false items.
Core rules
- Hardware vs software: CPU, RAM, ROM, input and output devices; RAM is volatile, ROM retains basic instructions.
- Memory units: 1 KB = 1024 bytes, 1 MB = 1024 KB, 1 GB = 1024 MB.
- File types: .docx (Word), .xlsx (Excel), .pptx (PowerPoint), .pdf (portable document), .jpg/.png (images).
- Shortcuts: Ctrl+C copy, Ctrl+V paste, Ctrl+X cut, Ctrl+Z undo, Ctrl+S save, Ctrl+P print, Ctrl+F find.
- Excel: formulas start with =; relative references shift when copied; $ fixes a row or column.
- Internet: URL identifies a resource; HTTPS adds encryption; email needs a valid address and subject; never share OTPs or passwords.
- e-governance: e-Gram Swaraj, DBT, Aadhaar-enabled payments and digital signatures support panchayat work.
Worked example
In Excel, a user enters =SUM(A1:A5) in cell A6. The colon means a range from A1 through A5, so the result is the sum of those five cells. If the formula is copied to B6, the range becomes B1:B5 because relative references shift. To keep A1:A5 fixed, write =SUM($A$1:$A$5).
Traps
- Confusing RAM (temporary) with ROM or hard disk storage.
- Mixing Ctrl+Z (undo) with Ctrl+Y (redo).
- Thinking a formula and a function are the same; SUM is a function, =SUM(...) is a formula.
- Treating HTTP and HTTPS as equally secure.
- Clicking links in unsolicited email that ask for login or OTP details.