Computer Science
Computer Science in the Pak Army Soldier Test checks hardware and software, input and output devices, storage, basic binary, internet use, and common shortcuts. Items test practical understanding rather than programming.
Core rules
- A computer follows input, processing, output, and storage. CPU is the main processing unit.
- RAM is temporary working memory; ROM is permanent read-only memory. Secondary storage keeps data when power is off.
- Binary uses digits 0 and 1. Place values from right to left are 1, 2, 4, 8, and so on.
- A browser displays web pages; a search engine finds information. They are not the same.
- Common shortcuts: Ctrl+C copy, Ctrl+X cut, Ctrl+V paste, Ctrl+S save.
Worked example
Convert binary 1011 to decimal. From left to right, place values are 8, 4, 2, 1. Multiply each bit: 1 x 8 = 8, 0 x 4 = 0, 1 x 2 = 2, 1 x 1 = 1. Add: 8 + 0 + 2 + 1 = 11. So 1011 in binary equals 11 in decimal.
Traps
Do not confuse RAM with storage; RAM loses data when power is off. Do not call a search engine a browser. Ctrl+C copies, not cuts. In binary conversion, start from the correct place value and do not skip zero bits. Check whether a device is input, output, or both: a touchscreen can be both.
Exam focus
Know the parts of a computer, the difference between hardware and software, common file types, and safe internet behavior.