Basic Computer Knowledge and Digital Awareness
Basic Computer Knowledge and Digital Awareness tests everyday use of computers, the internet and digital services, with emphasis on safe practice. Topics include hardware and software, operating systems, file management, word processing and spreadsheets, email, browsers, search, UPI and cyber hygiene.
Core rules
- RAM is volatile; ROM is non-volatile. Storage units rise from bit to byte, KB, MB, GB and TB.
- An operating system manages hardware, files and applications; Windows, Linux and Android are examples.
- In spreadsheets, a formula starts with '='; =SUM(A1:A3) adds the range.
- Email: To is the primary recipient, Cc is a visible copy, Bcc is a hidden copy.
- UPI uses a virtual payment address; the UPI PIN is never shared, not even with bank staff.
Worked example
A spreadsheet has 10 in A1, 20 in A2 and 15 in A3. What does =SUM(A1:A3) return? The range includes A1, A2 and A3, so 10 + 20 + 15 = 45. If the formula were =AVERAGE(A1:A3), the result would be 45 ÷ 3 = 15. The colon means 'from first cell to last cell'.
Traps
Do not treat RAM as permanent storage. Do not confuse Cc with Bcc: Bcc hides recipients from each other. Do not click a link in an unexpected email asking for an OTP or password. A pop-up claiming a prize is a common phishing lure. Do not use the same password across accounts; enable two-factor authentication where available.
Digital awareness
Use official app stores, check URLs, log out on shared devices and report financial fraud to the bank and cybercrime helpline 1930 promptly.