Computer Systems and Programming Basics
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of a computer system?

  • Data processing
  • Hardware
  • Software
  • Networking (correct)
  • What is the primary role of algorithms in problem solving with computers?

  • To execute commands automatically without human intervention
  • To outline a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem (correct)
  • To create user interfaces for software applications
  • To enhance the aesthetic appeal of software programs
  • Which activity is NOT part of the data processing cycle in computer systems?

  • Input of data
  • Storing the output result
  • Manipulation/processing of data
  • Generating profits from sales (correct)
  • What does the term 'computerisation' refer to?

    <p>The development of software to automate human tasks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is problem solving considered an essential skill for IS&T students?

    <p>It enables students to efficiently automate routine tasks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the success of a computer in solving problems depend on?

    <p>The precision of problem definition and algorithm design</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of computer hardware?

    <p>To perform arithmetic and logical operations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which software application is most commonly used for creating spreadsheets?

    <p>Spreadsheet software</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary way in which a compiler differs from an interpreter?

    <p>An interpreter executes single instructions at a time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true about error reporting in compilers compared to interpreters?

    <p>Compilers show errors only after checking the whole program.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a main disadvantage of using interpreters over compilers?

    <p>Interpreters generally run programs slower than compilers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step in the student acceptance process at Star City College?

    <p>Receiving the matric results</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of code can be executed directly by a computer?

    <p>Machine Code</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic of machine language is highlighted in the content?

    <p>It is very close to the hardware.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum MScore required for acceptance at Star City College?

    <p>36</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If a student's MScore is less than 30, what is the outcome?

    <p>The student is rejected.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about source code is accurate?

    <p>Source code is human-readable and must be compiled to run.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advantage does an interpreter provide over a compiler?

    <p>It can run programs independent of the host CPU.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key component must be included in the flowchart to determine the acceptance criteria?

    <p>Decision diamond to evaluate MScore</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if a student's MScore falls between 30 and 36?

    <p>The student must take an acceptance test.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of compilers?

    <p>They process lines of code one at a time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why was the acceptance criteria revised by the academic and admin staff?

    <p>To ensure quality of students entering the college.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which flowchart symbol represents the action of storing student results?

    <p>Rectangle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does syntax in programming languages primarily refer to?

    <p>The rules and grammar for formulating statements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many alternative paths are shown in the flowchart based on the MScore criteria?

    <p>Three</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement correctly describes the role of a compiler?

    <p>It converts high-level code into machine language</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the example 'Dim variable1, variable2, variable3 as Integer', what does 'Integer' signify?

    <p>The type of data that the variables can store</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT considered a fundamental element of programming languages?

    <p>Verbs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of an interpreter in comparison to a compiler?

    <p>It translates the code line by line during execution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these elements is essential for the computer to understand human-written instructions?

    <p>Syntax rules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which among the following best illustrates the order in which statements should be expressed in a programming language?

    <p>Syntax</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key difference between human interface languages and programming languages?

    <p>Programming languages have strict syntax rules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must happen to source code before a computer can execute it?

    <p>It must be translated into machine code.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is Object Code primarily used for?

    <p>It serves as a portable intermediary code.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does GIGO stand for in computing?

    <p>Garbage In, Garbage Out.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the ‘Define the Problem’ phase in programming?

    <p>This phase identifies the inputs and expected outputs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible consequence of poor input data according to the GIGO principle?

    <p>The program may produce nonsensical output.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the programming process, what is typically the first step to creating a program?

    <p>Defining the problem.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a typical task accomplished through programming?

    <p>Purchasing materials from suppliers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the success of a program heavily depend on?

    <p>The correctness of the input provided.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Computer Systems

    • A computer is a machine that can perform tasks automatically and sequentially.
    • Data processing in a computer system involves input, manipulation, output, and storage.
    • A computer system consists of two main components: hardware and software.
    • Hardware refers to the physical equipment.

    Programming and Logical Problem Solving

    • Problem-solving in IS&T is essential for developing programs.
    • Programs are sets of instructions that enable computers to perform tasks.
    • To solve a problem, we define the problem precisely, design an algorithm, and implement the solution using a programming language.

    Syntax

    • Syntax refers to the rules and grammar of a programming language, which governs how statements are formulated.
    • Each programming language has its own syntax that determines the expected format of code.
    • Computers understand code only if it's written in the correct syntax.

    Elements of a Programming Language

    • Programming languages have fundamental elements like data types, variables, keywords, operators, decisions, loops, functions, and more.

    Compilers and Interpreters

    • Computers understand machine code (binary patterns), which is different from human-readable languages.
    • Compilers translate entire programs from human-readable source code into machine code.
    • Interpreters execute code line by line, translating and running a program piece by piece.
    • Compilers and interpreters are tools that help bridge the gap between human languages and machine languages.

    GIGO (Garbage In Garbage Out)

    • The accuracy of computer output depends on the correctness of input provided.
    • GIGO highlights that computers process input unquestioningly, so incorrect or nonsensical input can result in erroneous output.

    The Programming Process

    • The programming process helps create programs that meet specific requirements.
    • It involves a series of steps, such as defining the problem, designing an algorithm, and writing and testing code.
    • There are various programming methodologies and processes followed in industry, some of which are covered in advanced ISTN courses.
    • A simple programming process involves defining the problem, developing an algorithm, implementing the algorithm using a programming language, and testing the program.

    Problem Definition

    • Break down a problem into input, output, and processing steps.
    • Input defines what data is entered into the program.
    • Output specifies the desired results or answers the program should provide.
    • Processing steps outline the actions the program takes to transform input into output.

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    Description

    Explore the foundational concepts of computer systems, programming, and syntax in this informative quiz. Test your understanding of hardware, software, and the essential elements of programming languages that dictate syntax and logic. Perfect for beginners looking to enhance their IS&T knowledge.

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