Learn about the three main types of memory in a computer system - RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory) and Cache Memory. Memory What is memory? Memory is where a computer stores information , instructions and data so it can use them quickly when needed . There are three main types of memory : RAM Random Access Memory ROM Read Only Memory Cache Memory What is Random Access Memory? RAM is volatile (this means that when power is lost, the data is deleted ). Every program that is being run by the computer (such as Google Chrome, Spotify or Microsoft Word) is stored in RAM . RAM is made up of a large number of storage locations , and each is identified with a unique address . What is Read Only Memory? ROM is non-volatile (this means that data is saved, even when the power is off ). The start-up instructions (for when a computer is switched on ) are stored in ROM . ROM is read-only, which means that it cannot be edited or changed . What is Cache Memory? Cache memory is fast to access because it is built into the CPU (or very close to it) . Cache memory stores data that needs to be accessed very frequently . Cache memory is very expensive , so there is only a small amount in most computers. How can a computer run faster? There are many reasons why a computer may be running slowly . Here are some methods related to memory that can help speed up a system : Close unnecessary programs to free up RAM so it doesn't run out of memory space . Add more RAM so the computer can run more programs at once without slowing down . Increase the cache size so the CPU can access important data more quickly . KS3 Home Note: Only larger systems like desktop computers can have their components easily upgraded and replaced.

Learn about the elements of a data flow diagram and factors that may disrupt them. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 5.2 - Data Flow Diagrams Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 A data flow diagram is a visual representation of how data is transferred within a system or organisation . Data flow diagrams are often abbreviated to just 'DFD '. You will need to recognise the symbols , understand the diagrams and explain how data flow can be affected . Data Flow Diagram Symbols The common symbols used in a DFD are shown below: External Entity (e.g. Employee, Customer) Alternative DFD symbols you may see on the exam paper (both sets of symbols have been accepted in previous exam papers): Process (e.g. Calculate Pay, Review Application) Data Store (e.g. Staff Database, Customer Database) External Entity Process Data Store Data Flow Level 0 data flow diagrams show the transfer of data in a simple manner . Processes may be generalised and not shown separately , for a more basic overview . Below is an example of a Level 0 DFD to show the process of an employee submitting an application to be promoted : Level 1 data flow diagrams show the transfer of data in a more detailed manner . Processes are shown separately , for a more complex and realistic overview . Below is an example of a Level 1 DFD to show the process of an employee submitting an application to be promoted . The individual processes have been expanded from the Level 0 DFD above to show how the application must first be signed off by an administrator before it is reviewed by management: Rules for Drawing a Level 1 DFD Data flows only in one direction . Every data flow is labelled (with the data itself , not the action). Every data flow connects to at least one process . At least one input or output for each external entity . Impacts Affecting the Flow of Information There are several reasons why the flow of information within an organisation may be delayed or inefficient , such as: Information characteristics e.g. information is entered incorrectly, causing delays. Human error e.g. information is lost or staff don't follow protocol. Hardware failure e.g. network connection breaking or system failure. Communication breakdown e.g. meetings postponed or emails unread. Q uesto's Q uestions 5.2 - Data Flow Diagrams: 1. Draw the symbols for the four parts of a data flow diagram . [4 ] 2. Look at the image of the Level 1 DFD . State one example of: An external entity A process A data flow A data store [1 each ] 3. Give one difference between a Level 0 and Level 1 DFD . [2 ] 4. State three rules for drawing a correct data flow diagram . [3 ] 5. After heavy snow, a school has decided to shut for the next two days. Many parents were not informed of this decision and are angry that they brought their children in. Give three reasons why the transfer of data (the data being a message about school closure) might not have flowed efficiently in this example. [6 ] 1 Level 0 Data Flow Diagram Level 1 Data Flow Diagram 5.1 - Data Types & Sources Topic List 6.1 - Security Principles

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Learn about the negative impacts that data loss will have on an organisation including reputation loss, fines and possible bankruptcy. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 6.3 - Impacts Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 If a risk to data (see 6.2 ) occurs then there are a number of different impacts that may consequently negatively affect an organisation . Loss of Intellectual Property 'Intellectual property ' refers to anything that an organisation or individual has designed, developed or created themselves . For an individual, this could be a manuscript , artwork or piece of music . For an organisation, it could be primary data they have collected, blueprints for an upcoming design or a report following data analysis. The impact of having intellectual property lost depends on the property itself and how easy it would be for the victim to recreate or recollect the data . Competitors that stole intellectual property could use it at their advantage. Also, the effect of an upcoming announcement to the public would decrease if it was leaked ahead of time. In 2017 HBO suffered large property leaks when Game of Thrones episodes were stolen before air date resulting in pirated versions appearing online well before they were due to be shown on TV. Loss of Service and Access If usernames and passwords are stolen then individuals may be unable to access services that they have paid for, an example being if WiFi details were stolen so that a hacker can access the internet using someone else's account. If a hacker is permitted access to a system they can change the account settings such as the password to lock out the original owners of that account, leaving them without access. Other services can be targeted with malicious attacks like a DDOS attack so that users cannot log into a web page or online service. If users cannot access an account they may use alternative methods and providers , such as avoiding one type of cloud storage provider that has let them down and choosing another. Breach of Confidential Information Confidential information is of a highly sensitive nature and could lead to other negative impacts if it got into the hands of unauthorised people . Confidential information, such as medical histories, should be stored securely with multiple physical and logical protections in place to ensure that it keeps its integrity . If confidential information was breached then it could lead to a loss of reputation as the holder would be regarded as ineffective at protecting the data . Legal consequences would also follow as the Data Protection Act ( 2018 ) would be broken : fines, court cases and even imprisonment would be possible further impacts. An organisation would expect to see penalties from the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) if they failed to protect personal details by breaking the DPA . Loss of Third Party Data Many organisations will store data not only for their own purposes but for other individuals and businesses too; a key example being cloud storage providers . Users can store data on public cloud services such as Google Drive or DropBox and access their information using the internet from any networked device they please. If services like cloud storage services are hacked or taken offline (e.g. because of an attack or network problems) and data is lost then customers, especially those that pay, will be furious. This will lead to a loss of reputation, trust and even legal proceedings if personal and sensitive data is lost. Larger businesses will use private cloud storage, hosted in data centres that they maintain themselves, to avoid relying on third parties . Loss of Reputation Organisations spend years to build up a reputation where customers trust them and want to use their products or services. Data loss can immediately destroy that reputation and cause once-loyal customers to look elsewhere and choose their competitors . Failing to keep data safe means that an organisation has been unable to follow their legal and moral duty of keeping information secure and could lead to a loss of trade , resulting in reduced earnings and sales . Identity Theft If an individual's personal information is stolen by attackers then one impact is identity theft - when the attacker uses the victim's data for fraud or impersonation . Identity theft can lead to financial loss to the victim if loans , products or services are purchased in their name . The victim may have to contact their bank and other organisations to cancel transactions and there is no guarantee their money will be returned. Credit checks may be affected, leading to future financial difficulty for the victim. Threat to National Security If data of a classified nature (such as military arrangements, security weak-points or upcoming government plans) is lost and falls into the hands (most probably by hacking) of those who intend to bring harm to the country then the consequences can be disastrous. Spies of foreign countries or terrorists could use classified information to target vulnerable locations or events resulting in casualties. Threats could also be economic in nature if large amounts of money are stolen or redirected to malicious bodies. Recent Examples of Security Failure Q uesto's Q uestions 6.3 - Impacts: 1. Describe how each of the impacts above could affect a bank storing large amounts of customer data including financial records. [12 ] 2. Research three recent hacking examples . For each situation describe the impacts that occurred as a result of data loss . [12 ] Click the icons to read BBC News articles about recent examples of hacks and security breaches . Virgin Media Boots Marriott Hotels Facebook Messenger 6.2 - Risks Topic List 6.4 - Protection Measures

Learn about algorithms including pseudocode and flowcharts. Based on the 2020 Eduqas (WJEC) GCSE specification. 8.2: Understanding Algorithms Exam Board: Eduqas Specification: 2020 What is an algorithm? An algorithm is a set of instructions , presented in a logical sequence . In an exam you may be asked to read and understand an algorithm that has been written. To prove your understanding you may be asked to respond by actions such as listing the outputs of the algorithm, correcting errors or identifying an error within it. Programmers create algorithm designs as a method of planning a program before writing any code. This helps them to consider the potential problems of the program and makes it easier to start creating source code. There are two main methods of defining algorithms : Defining Algorithms - Pseudocode & Flowcharts Pseudocode Pseudocode is not a specific programming language but a more general method of describing instructions . It should be unambiguous, and it should not resemble any particular kind of programming language (e.g. Python or Java), so it can theoretically be turned into working code in any language. Generally, pseudocode can be written in any way that is readable and clearly shows its purpose. However, the Eduqas exam board advises that pseudocode for the programming exam should follow the conventions below : Annotation { Write your comment in curly brackets} Define data type price is integer firstname is string Declare a variable's value set price = 100 set firstname = "Marcella" Input / output output "Please enter your first name" input firstname Selection (must have indentation) if firstname = "Steven" then output "Hello" + firstname elif firstname = "Steve" then output "Please use full name" else output "Who are you?" end if Iteration (while loop) while firstname ! = "Steven" output "Guess my name." input firstname repeat Iteration (for loop) for i in range 10 input item next i Define a subroutine Declare Sub1 [Subroutine content indented] End Sub1 Call a subroutine call Sub1 Flowcharts A flowchart can be used to visually represent an algorithm. The flowchart symbols are: Algorithm Examples Below are two different methods for representing the same algorithm - a program to encourage people to buy items cheaply at a supermarket. The program allows the price of items in a supermarket to be entered until the total reaches 100. The total price and the number of items entered are tracked as the program loops. Once the total reaches 100 or more, an if statement checks how many items have been entered and a different message is printed if there are 20 or more items, 30 or more items or less than 20 items. Pseudocode Flowchart {This is a program to see how many items you can buy in a supermarket before you spend over £100} total is integer, itemsentered is integer, itemprice is integer set total = 0 set itemsentered = 0 while total < 100 output "enter the price of the next item" input itemprice total = total + itemprice itemsentered = itemsentered + 1 repeat if itemsentered >= 20 then output "You are on your way to saving money." elif itemsentered => 30 then output "You're a real money saver." else output "Look for better deals next time." end if Reading Algorithms In an exam you may be asked to read an algorithm and prove your understanding , most commonly by listing the outputs . Start from the first line and follow the program line by line , recording the value of variables as you go . When you encounter a for loop , repeat the indented code as many times as stated in the range . Example Algorithm: Start NewProgram i is integer maxvalue is integer input maxvalue for i = 1 to maxvalue output (i * i) ??????? output 'program finished' End NewProgram Example Questions: 1. List the outputs produced by the algorithm if the 'maxvalue' input is 5 . 2. State the code that has been replaced by '???????' and what the code's purpose is. Example Answers: 1. Outputs: 1 4 9 16 25 program finished 2. Missing Code: next i Purpose: Moves the loop to the next iteration. Watch on YouTube Q uesto's Q uestions 8.2 - Understanding Algorithms: 1a. Read the algorithm shown on the left and list all outputs in the correct order if the inputs are 2 for height and 72 for weight . 1b. Give the code that is missing from line 25 . 8.1 - Programming Principles Theory Topics 8.3 - Writing Algorithms

The first part of a quick guide to the basics of Python aimed at Key Stage 3 students. Learn about comments and printing. Python - #1 - The Basics 1. Start with Commenting Programmers write A LOT of code. They need to understand exactly what they have written, especially if they are working as part of a team or returning to code after working on other projects. To help them understand what they have written, programmers use comments to annotate (explain) their code . Task 1 - Create a new Python program and use # to write a comment that says your name and the date. Save the file as 1-Basics.py In Python, type the # symbol then your message to write a comment. Comments are not printed when you run a program! It is a good idea to start every program with a comment, so you know what the program is about . 2. Printing to the Screen The most basic and common command you will use in Python is print . Inside the print brackets, you can write a message within speech marks . Your print command should turn purple - don't use any capital letters in Python unless it is inside speech marks! Task 2 - Write a nice message by using the print command, brackets and speech marks. Press F5 to run your program. 3. More Printing You can write multiple print lines one after another to print on different lines. Task 3 - Add two more print lines to your program. You can choose any message that you like. 4. New Lines You can use the special command \n to start a new line . This allows you to write on multiple lines but only use one print line. Use the backslash ( \ ) not the forward-slash ( / ). Task 4 - Use \n to write a 3 sentence conversation in only one line of code. Challenge Programs Use everything that you have learned on this page to help you create these programs... Challenge Task 1 - Days of the Week Create a new Python program. Save it as ' 1-Week.py ' Add a comment at the top with your name and the date. Create a program that prints the days of the week, with each day on a new line. BONUS : Try to use only one print line. BONUS : Have no empty spaces at the start of each line. When you run it, it should look like this: Challenge Task 2 - Conversation Create a new Python program. Save it as ' 1-Conversation.py ' Add a comment at the top with your name and the date. Create a program that prints a 6-line conversation between two people. It is up to you what these two people are talking about. BONUS : Try to use only one print line. BONUS : Have no empty spaces at the start of each line. When you run it, it could look something like this: #2 Variables >>>

The homepage for the HTML section on CSNewbs. Learn how to create an HTML website from scratch and how each tag works. I'm Arthur the Alligator and I'm here to teach you HTML. HTML GUide Show me how to make a webpage in HTML from scratch. List of Tags Show me a list of tags I can use.

Learn how to edit code in Greenfoot to make objects move using the arrow keys. Use methods such as isKeyDown, setRotation and move. Part 2 of the Greenfoot Tutorial for the Eduqas / WJEC GCSE 2016 specification. Right-click on your main character class and select ' Open editor '. The editor allows you to write different methods - actions that the class can perform. The act() method will repeat whenever the Run button is pressed. 1. Open the Code Editor 2. Movement with the Arrow Keys Greenfoot Tutorial Watch on YouTube: 2. Copy the Code CAREFULLY You need to use an if statement to check if a certain key (like the right arrow key) is being pressed down . An if statement must be contained in standard brackets . After each if statement, the proceeding code must be typed within curly brackets - see the image on the left . Tip - If the brackets are on the same line then use the standard brackets ( and ) If the brackets are on different lines then use curly brackets { and } Your code must be perfect or it won't work. 'Greenfoot ' requires a capital G and the isKeyDown method most be written with a lowercase i but uppercase K and D . When the right arrow key is pressed the object will change its rotation to 0° which is right . It will also move 1 place in this direction. Rotations in Greenfoot: 3. Code the Other Arrow Keys Directly underneath the if statement for turning and moving right, add the code for turning and moving down . You can see in the diagram above the degrees to rotate in each of the four directions . Write the code to move in all four directions. Ensure you have the correct number of brackets or the program won't start. Remember brackets that start and end on the same line are ( ) and brackets over multiple lines are { } . 4. Compile and Run Click the Compile button at the top of the code editor . Then you can go back to the main Greenfoot window and click Run . Press the arrow keys to test your main character moves . Click on me if you've got an error that you're stuck with. < Part 1 - Setup & Populating the World Part 3 - Movement (Random) >

Learn about the characteristics of networks, protocols, standards, the internet, TCP/IP stack, DNS servers, protocol layering, LANs, WANs, packet and circuit switching, network security and threats, firewalls, proxies, encryption, network hardware, client-server and peer to peer networks. Based on the OCR H446 Computer Science A-Level specification. Exam Board: OCR A-Level 3.3 - Networks Specification: Computer Science H446 Watch on YouTube : Purpose of networks (LAN & WAN) Protocols & standards Protocol layering & TCP/IP stack Domain Name System (DNS) Packet & circuit switching Network security threats Network security protection Network hardware Client-server & peer-to-peer This topic looks at how data is transferred between computer systems on networks , including the required devices , protocols , network types and potential security threats . Purpose of Networks A network is a group of connected computers that can share data , resources and communicate with each other . The main purpose of a network is to allow users to share files , hardware (like printers ), internet connections and other services efficiently . A Local Area Network (LAN ) covers a small geographical area , such as a single building or school , and is usually owned and managed by one organisation . A Wide Area Network (WAN ) covers a large geographical area , connecting multiple LANs through public or leased communication lines such as the internet . Protocols & Standards Protocols are sets of rules that define how data is transmitted and received over a network , ensuring that devices can communicate reliably . Standards are agreed specifications that ensure different hardware and software systems are compatible and can work together . They are needed so that networks remain interoperable , secure and efficient , regardless of the devices or manufacturers involved . Common network protocols include: HTTP /HTTPS is used for transferring web pages over the internet . FTP aids the transfer of files across a network . SMTP is used to send emails and IMAP /POP receive emails . TCP/IP is the core suite of protocols that controls how data is packaged , addressed , transmitted and received across networks . Protocol Layering & TCP/IP Stack Protocol layering is used to divide complex networking tasks into manageable sections , making systems easier to design , understand and troubleshoot . It also allows different technologies or protocols to work together , as each layer only interacts with the ones directly above and below it. The four layers are: Application layer : Provides network services to end users , such as web browsing (HTTP ) or email (SMTP ). Transport layer : Manages data transmission between devices, ensuring it arrives reliably and in the correct order (e.g. TCP , UDP ). Internet layer : Handles addressing and routing of data packets between networks using IP (Internet Protocol ). Link layer : Manages the physical connection between devices and controls how data is transmitted over the network hardware . Domain Name System (DNS) The Domain Name System ( DNS ) translates human-readable domain names (like www.csnewbs.com ) into IP addresses that computers use to identify each other on a network . When a user enters a web address , the request is sent to a DNS server to find the matching IP address . If the server doesn’t have it stored locally , it queries other DNS servers higher in the hierarchy until it finds the correct address . The IP address is then returned to the user’s device , allowing it to connect to the correct web server to access the requested web page . Packet & Circuit Switching Packet switching and circuit switching are methods of data transmission , describing how data is sent across a network from one device to another . With packet switching , data is split into small packets , each sent independently across the network and reordered at the destination . This makes efficient use of network resources and allows many users to share the same connections . However, packets can arrive out of order or be delayed , causing variable performance . With circuit switching , a dedicated communication path is established between two devices for the duration of a session , as in traditional phone networks . It provides a reliable and consistent connection with guaranteed bandwidth . The drawback is that it wastes resources , as the dedicated line cannot be used by others . Network Security Threats There is a range of potential threats associated with network use to be aware of, including the following: Hackers can attempt to gain unauthorised access to computer systems or networks , often to steal , alter or destroy data . Viruses are malicious programs that attach themselves to other files and spread , potentially damaging or deleting data . Denial of Service ( DoS ) attacks overload a network or website with traffic , making it unavailable to legitimate users . Spyware secretly monitors user activity and collects information such as passwords or browsing habits . An SQL injection involves inserting malicious SQL code into a database query to access or alter sensitive data . Phishing uses fraudulent emails or messages to trick users into revealing personal information . Pharming redirects users from legitimate websites to fake ones designed to steal login details or financial information . Network Security Protection Minimising or preventing network threats is vital and can be achieved with the following measures : Firewalls monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic , blocking unauthorised access while allowing safe communication . Secure passwords help protect user accounts by making it difficult for attackers to guess or crack them, especially when they are long and complex . Anti-virus software scans and removes malicious programs , such as viruses and worms , before they can damage files or systems . Anti-spyware software detects and removes spyware , preventing it from secretly collecting personal or sensitive information from a user’s device . Network Hardware A range of network hardware is required for devices to transfer data to another location , including the following: A modem converts digital data into analogue signals and back , allowing internet access over phone or cable lines . A router directs data between networks and assigns IP addresses to connected devices . Cables provide the physical connections between devices . A Network Interface Card ( NIC ) enables a computer to connect to a network . A Wireless Access Point ( WAP ) allows wireless devices to join a wired network via WiFi . On a local area network ( LAN ), hubs broadcast data to all devices , whereas switches send data only to the intended destination , improving network efficiency . Client-Server & Peer-to-Peer A client–server network has a central server that provides resources and services to client computers . It allows for centralised management , making it easier to back up data and enforce security policies . However, it relies heavily on the server - if it fails , users may lose access to resources . A peer-to-peer (P2P ) network has no central server ; instead, each computer can act as both a client and a server , sharing resources directly . It is cheap and easy to set up , making it suitable for small networks . The drawback is that it can be less secure and harder to manage , as data and security depend on individual users . Q uesto's K ey T erms Purpose of networks: local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) Protocols: protocol, standard, protocol layers, TCP/IP stack, application layer, transport layer, internet layer, link layer DNS: Domain Name System Switching: packet switching, circuit switching Network security: hackers, viruses, unauthorised access, denial of service, spyware, SQL injection, phishing, pharming, firewalls, secure passwords, anti-virus, anti-spyware Network hardware: modem, router, cable, NIC, Wireless Access Points, hub, switch Client-server & peer-to-peer D id Y ou K now? The first computer worm is considered to be Creeper (in 1971 ), which spread across ARPANET computers and displayed the message: “ I’m the creeper, catch me if you can! ”. A second program called Reaper was then created to delete Creeper , making it arguably the first antivirus . 3.2 - Databases A-Level Topics 3.4 - Web Technologies

Learn about computational methods including problem recognition, decomposition, divide and conquer, abstraction, backtracking, data mining, heuristics, performance modelling, pipelining and visualisation. Based on the OCR H446 Computer Science A-Level specification. Exam Board: OCR A-Level Specification: Computer Science H446 2.2 - Computational Methods Watch on YouTube : Problem recognition Decomposition Divide and conquer Abstraction Backtracking Data mining Heuristics Performance modelling Pipelining Visualisation Computational methods are techniques to analyse problems and design efficient , effective solutions . Problem Recognition Problem recognition is the process of identifying that a problem exists and understanding its nature before attempting to solve it. It involves determining the aims of the task , identifying constraints and requirements , and clarifying what inputs , outputs and processes are expected from the solution . Effective problem recognition ensures the developer understands the real-world context and avoids solving the wrong problem or missing key details . It is the essential first step that guides all later stages of computational thinking and system design . YouTube video uploading soon Decomposition Decomposition involves breaking a complex system or task into smaller , more manageable components that are easier to design , implement and test . Each sub-problem should ideally be independent and solve a specific part of the overall task , which helps reduce complexity and supports modular program design . This approach enables different developers to work on different components simultaneously and simplifies debugging , maintenance and future updates . By working through smaller logical parts , the full problem becomes far more approachable and structured . YouTube video uploading soon Divide and Conquer Divide and conquer is a technique that splits a problem into smaller sub-problems of the same type , solves them (often using recursion ), and then combines the solutions to produce the final answer . This approach can significantly improve efficiency by reducing large input sizes into more manageable chunks , as seen in algorithms like quicksort . Divide and conquer algorithms include a binary search and a merge sort . The time complexity of divide and conquer algorithms is logarithmic - O(log n) - allowing complex problems to be solved much quicker than other algorithms . YouTube video uploading soon Abstraction Abstraction means removing unnecessary details to focus only on the most important features of a problem or system . It allows programmers to create simplified models that capture essential behaviour without becoming overwhelmed by irrelevant complexities . Abstraction enables generalisation , reusable designs and clearer reasoning about how components interact . In computational contexts, abstraction also highlights the difference between real-world systems and their simplified computational models . YouTube video uploading soon Backtracking Backtracking is used to explore possible solutions to a problem by building a partial solution and abandoning it as soon as it becomes clear it cannot succeed . It works by trying an option , checking whether it leads towards a valid solution , and backtracking to try a different path if a dead end is reached . This approach is used in constraint-based problems such as maze solving . While powerful , backtracking can be computationally expensive , so it often benefits from heuristics or pruning strategies . YouTube video uploading soon Data Mining Data mining is the process of extracting useful patterns , trends and relationships from large datasets . It enables organisations to identify hidden insights , predict behaviours and support data-driven decision-making , particularly in fields such as marketing , healthcare , finance and security . Data mining can lead to enhanced decision-making that can result in innovation , a competitive advantage against similar organisations and increased revenue . It can be used to identify anomalies or unused features . However, data mining doesn't explain the patterns it can identify and it requires powerful computers with a lot of processing power to handle huge amounts of data . YouTube video uploading soon Heuristics Heuristics are approximate problem-solving strategies that aim to produce good solutions quickly when exact , optimal methods are too slow or computationally impractical . They rely on rules of thumb to guide searches through very large solution spaces efficiently . Heuristics are widely used in artificial intelligence , optimisation tasks and complex search algorithms such as A* , where perfect accuracy is less important than fast , practical solutions . The trade-off is that heuristic methods are not guaranteed to produce the optimal answer , but they dramatically reduce processing time . YouTube video uploading soon Performance Modelling Performance modelling is the process of predicting how a system or algorithm will behave under different workloads , input sizes or hardware environments . It uses tools such as mathematical analysis , simulation and Big O notation to estimate required resources such as processing time or memory use . Performance modelling offers a cheaper , quicker and often safer way to test applications . For example, when a company beta tests an online game , it can trial the system with a smaller group of players and then apply performance modelling to predict how much server capacity will be needed when the game is fully released . YouTube video uploading soon Pipelining Pipelining is a technique in which different stages of a process are overlapped so that multiple instructions or operations are being processed simultaneously at different stages . In CPU architecture , for example, one instruction might be fetched while another is decoded and a third is executed , increasing overall throughput without increasing clock speed . Pipelining can also be used in algorithms or data-processing systems to prevent idle time in stages that operate independently . However, pipelining introduces complexity because dependencies or branch mispredictions may require a pipeline to be flushed - interrupting flow and reducing efficiency . YouTube video uploading soon Visualisation Visualisation supports the understanding of a problem by presenting information in a clearer and more accessible form than text alone . It is useful for explaining complex ideas or identifying patterns . Data can be shown visually through diagrams , graphs , trees , flowcharts or tables . The advantages of visualisation include helping to model , represent , analyse or summarise complex concepts . It allows information to be communicated more clearly and in a way that is easier to interpret . It can also provide different perspectives on how a problem might be solved . YouTube video uploading soon This page is under active development. Check here for the latest progress update. Q uesto's K ey T erms Computational Methods: problem recognition, decomposition, divide and conquer, abstraction, backtracking, data mining, heuristics, performance modelling, pipelining, visualisation D id Y ou K now? Real-time location services like Google Maps use heuristics to guess travel times using heuristics such as estimated speeds , traffic history and shortcuts to make fast but approximate route suggestions . 2.1 - Programming Techniques A-Level Topics 3.1a-d - Algorithm Complexity

Learn how to create simple programs in Python. Try practice tasks and learn through text and images. Perfect for students learning GCSE Computer Science in UK schools. Formerly pynewbs.com. Follow the instructions in each section and try the practice tasks on every page . At the end of each section are larger problems to solve. Pyt hon Sections 0. Setting up Python Installing and Using Python 1. Printing and Variables a. Printing b. Comments c. Creating Variables d. Using Variables Section 1 Practice Tasks 2. Inputting Data a. Inputting Text b. Inputting Numbers Section 2 Practice Tasks 7. Subroutines a. Procedures b. Functions Section 7 Practice Tasks 8. Lists a. Using Lists b. 2D Lists c. Dictionaries Section 8 Practice Tasks 9. String Handling a. Basic String Handling b. Number Handling Section 9 Practice Tasks 3. Data Types & Calculations a. Data Types b. Simple Calculations Section 3 Practice Tasks 4. Selection a. If Statements b. Mathematical Operators ( & MOD / DIV) c. Logical Operators Section 4 Practice Tasks 5. Importing from Libraries a. Random b. Sleep c. Date & Time d. Colorama e. More Libraries (math) Section 5 Practice Tasks 6. Loops a. For Loops b. While Loops Section 6 Practice Tasks 10. File Handling a. Open & Write to Files b. Read & Search Files c. Remove & Edit Lines Section 10 Practice Tasks 11. User Interfaces a. Graphical User Interface 12. Authentication a. Error Handling Extended Tasks Extended Task 1 (Pork Pies) Extended Task 2 (Lottery) Extended Task 3 (Blackjack) Extended Task 4 (Vet Surgery) Extended Task 5 (Colour Collection) Extended Task 6 (Guess the Word) Extended Task 7 (Guess the Number)

Learn about the purpose, characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, examples and client requirements of application software types, including off-the-shelf, custom off-the-shelf and bespoke software. Resources based on Unit F160 (Fundamentals of Application Development) for the OCR Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (H029 / H129) AAQ (Alternative Academic Qualification). Qualification: Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (AAQ) Unit: F160: Fundamentals of Application Development Certificate: Computing: Application Development (H029 / H129) 1.3.3 - Application Software Types Watch on YouTube : Off-the-Shelf Software Custom Off-the-Shelf Software Bespoke Software There are three application software types you need to know : Off-the-shelf software Custom off-the-shelf software Bespoke software For each software type , you need to know : Its purpose and common characteristics . The advantages and disadvantages of using the software. How client requirements affect the selection of that software. Application Software Types Off-the-Shelf Software Off-the-shelf software is pre-made and available for anyone to buy and use . It is designed for general users and common tasks . It is pre-developed and ready-made with standard features for a wide audience , not custom-built for a specific user. Its purpose is to provide a cost-effective , quick-to-deploy solution for popular applications . Custom Off-the-Shelf Software Custom off-the-shelf software is pre-built like regular off-the-shelf software , but can be slightly customised to meet specific user needs . It offers a balance between quick setup and limited personalisation . It supports configurable features such as add-ons , plugins or modules to extend or adapt functionality while the base software remains maintained and updated by the original developer . Bespoke Software Bespoke software is designed and built specifically for one organisation or user . It fits their exact needs but usually costs more and takes longer to develop . An example is a bespoke system developed for a specific bank with custom software to handle financial regulations , unique products and security needs . Other examples include government systems , hospital patient management and air traffic control . Q uesto's Q uestions 1.3.3 - Application Software Types: 1. Explain the differences in purpose and characteristics between off-the-shelf and custom off-the-shelf software. [4 ] 2. A dental surgery needs new software to manage its customer bookings . Justify which application software type they should use and why . [4 ] 3. Describe two advantages and two disadvantages of the three application software types on this page. [ 12 ] Off-the-shelf software gets its name from the days when software like Microsoft Word was sold on physical discs in shops , for customers to take off the shelf and install at home . D id Y ou K now? 1.3.2 - Software Categories Topic List 2.1 - Software Development Models