Software Basics Quiz

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Questions and Answers

Which type of software manages daily finances?

Mint (correct)

Toodledo

Adobe Photoshop

OmniFocus

What type of software provides templates for visualizing home projects?

Home design/improvement software (correct)

Test preparation software

Course management software

Genealogy software

Which software is used for digital audio editing?

Simplifi

Quicken

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Premiere (correct)

Which of the following is NOT a primary type of system software?

Multimedia software Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of educational and reference software?

To enhance test preparation and virtual learning Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the unique signal generated to the OS when a user hits the 'print' command?

Interrupt Signup and view all the answers

Which concept refers to an OS processing tasks in a priority order?

Preemptive multitasking Signup and view all the answers

What purpose does a device driver serve in a computer system?

Facilitate communication between the device and the OS Signup and view all the answers

What happens when events occur concurrently in an OS?

The OS prioritizes and organizes them. Signup and view all the answers

When a keystroke occurs, how does the OS respond?

It generates an event. Signup and view all the answers

What does the C Drive represent in a computer's filing system?

The top directory of the filing structure Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of a computer's directory structure?

Applications Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of creating system restore points in Windows?

To provide a snapshot of system settings before changes Signup and view all the answers

What is recommended when naming files on a Mac?

Use searchable names for easier organization Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes standalone utility programs?

They offer additional features, like enhanced security Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of system software?

To run the computer and manage hardware and software interactions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of application software?

Microsoft Word Signup and view all the answers

What describes open source software?

Software that is available for free to the public Signup and view all the answers

Which method of software distribution requires payment for installation on a specific device?

Local installation Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of beta software?

To allow users to try software in development and report issues Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of software distribution?

Freemium model Signup and view all the answers

Which type of software generally requires ongoing payments for continued use?

Proprietary software Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes application software?

It is used for performing specific tasks by users. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of real-time operating systems?

Programs are specifically written for the needs of devices. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a real-time operating system?

Pacemaker Signup and view all the answers

What function does the Start menu serve in Windows?

It provides access to all installed applications. Signup and view all the answers

What feature in Windows allows users to group open windows by task?

Virtual desktop Signup and view all the answers

How do the interfaces of Linux compare to Windows and macOS?

Most interfaces are based on familiar Windows and macOS paradigms. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the power-on self-test in computers?

To ensure all peripheral devices are operational. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the relationship between Windows and macOS is true?

They are similar but not compatible with each other. Signup and view all the answers

How is content organized within a Windows operating system?

In a hierarchical directory structure. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Software Basics

There are two types of software: Application software is used for common tasks, such as writing documents, creating images, or playing games. System software manages the computer's operation and facilitates communication between applications and hardware.
Software is often created by companies and sold for profit (proprietary). Some companies and communities develop and distribute open source software freely for use and modification.
Software distribution models include local installation where you pay a one-time fee and download the software onto your computer, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) where the vendor hosts software online, and subscription where you pay a recurring fee for access.
Beta software is still under development and is often released early to the public to get feedback on bugs and errors.

Common Application Software Categories

Personal Financial Software manages your finances and budgets.
Multimedia Software is used to create images, edit videos, and produce audio content for games, animations, and movies.
Educational and Reference Software assists students with test preparation, home design, course management, and genealogical research.

System Software

System software comes in two main types: the operating system and utility programs.
The operating system (OS) is the core software that manages the computer’s resources, handles user input, and provides a platform for other applications to run.
Utility programs are small programs that help maintain and improve the efficiency of the computer system.

Operating System Functions

The OS responds to all events such as keystrokes and mouse clicks.
When multiple events occur simultaneously, the OS prioritizes them, using interrupts to signal a specific type of activity to the OS.
Preemptive multitasking is the OS's ability to process tasks based on a set priority.
Each connected device uses a device driver to facilitate communication between the device and the OS.
A Real-time operating system (RTOS) requires minimal user interaction and is specifically designed for the needs of specific devices or systems.

Windows interface:

The desktop is the primary work area.
The taskbar displays open applications and favorites for easy access.
The start menu provides access to all applications and apps on your device.
Virtual desktop is a Windows feature that allows you to organize open windows into task-specific groups.

macOS interface:

macOS interface is similar to Windows but not compatible.

Linux interface:

Most Linux interfaces are based on familiar Windows and MacOS paradigms.

File Management

Windows organizes its contents into a hierarchical directory structure.
The root directory (C:) is the top of the filing structure.
The C drive [hard drive] is a large storage area for all files.
macOS users can name content with searchable names, organize content using umbrella folders, and back up data regularly.

File handling

Once a file is moved to the trash (Mac) or Recycling Bin (Windows), it remains accessible until the trash is emptied.
Backup, backup, backup!
Every file is composed of two parts: the file name and the extension (which identifies the file type).

Utility Programs

Utility programs help maintain and enhance the computer system.
Basic utility programs are often integrated into the OS such as firewall and file-compression utilities.
Standalone utility programs have more advanced features and applications like antivirus and security software.
Freeware is software that is available without charge.

System Restore Points

Windows automatically creates restore points before certain events, such as installing or updating software.
You can also create a restore point manually at any time.

Accessibility Utilities

Accessibility utilities enhance the user experience for individuals with special needs.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the fundamentals of software, including different types such as application and system software, proprietary versus open source software, and various distribution models. This quiz will also touch on common categories of application software.