Computer Literacy Pre- And Post- Quiz

1. Which computer component is considered to be the 'brain' of the computer?

RAM

Hard Drive

CPU

Bus

Even though the CPU is the brain, it is not very intelligent, and only knows how to do a few basic things (at lightning speed, usually flawlessly). Computer programmers give computers the artificial intelligence which can make them appear to be intelligent.

Explanation

Even though the CPU is the brain, it is not very intelligent, and only knows how to do a few basic things (at lightning speed, usually flawlessly). Computer programmers give computers the artificial intelligence which can make them appear to be intelligent.

2. What is an example of Software

A modem

A byte

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Windows XP

Windows XP is an example of software because it is an operating system that runs on a computer. Software refers to the programs and applications that are installed on a computer system, enabling it to perform various tasks and functions. Windows XP is a specific software that provides a user interface and manages the computer's hardware and software resources, allowing users to interact with their computers and run other software applications.

Explanation

Windows XP is an example of software because it is an operating system that runs on a computer. Software refers to the programs and applications that are installed on a computer system, enabling it to perform various tasks and functions. Windows XP is a specific software that provides a user interface and manages the computer's hardware and software resources, allowing users to interact with their computers and run other software applications.

3. Which of the data storage devices holds the most data?

Floppy Drive

Flash Drive

Hard Drive

CD-ROM Drive

DVD Drive

1 Hard Drive = (approx.) 200 DVD's (or Flash Drives) = 1200 CD's = 600,000 Floppy Disks. Each floppy disks can hold tens of documents.

Explanation

1 Hard Drive = (approx.) 200 DVD's (or Flash Drives) = 1200 CD's = 600,000 Floppy Disks. Each floppy disks can hold tens of documents.

4. Which of the following is an example of hardware?

The Operating System

A Computer Virus

An E-mail

A Computer Mouse

Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer.

Explanation

Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer.

5. Which is the FIRST step to shutting down a computer

Press Power Switch

Click the 'Start' button

Close all Internet connections

Log off

Click 'Start' then 'shut down' then 'OK'

Explanation

Click 'Start' then 'shut down' then 'OK'

6. If you lose your ability to control your computer with your mouse and keyboard, it is probably a sign:

Your computer is 'frozen'

You have just been infected with a virus

Your hard drive crashed

You lost your connection to the Internet

Although other explanations are possible, in most cases a programming 'bug' has caused your computer to 'freeze' (become non-responsive).

Explanation

Although other explanations are possible, in most cases a programming 'bug' has caused your computer to 'freeze' (become non-responsive).

7. What term is used for a basic unit of data storage?

RAM

Folder

Byte

Hertz

1 Byte typically holds one character, or a number from 0 to 255. So, a 5-letter word generally takes up 5 bytes of storage space, using, for example, the Notepad program.

Explanation

1 Byte typically holds one character, or a number from 0 to 255. So, a 5-letter word generally takes up 5 bytes of storage space, using, for example, the Notepad program.

8. What does the Operating System NOT do?

Provides a User Interface (for controlling the computer)

Helps you manage computer resources such as printers and data storage devices.

Prevents access to adult-content websites

Checks for and warns of hardware failures

In fact, you need the Operating System program running before you can run any other programs.

Explanation

In fact, you need the Operating System program running before you can run any other programs.

9. Which is NOT true about computer viruses?

They are designed to spread

If you are running virus protection software, you don't need to worry about getting a virus.

Your computer might act 'normally' even if you are infected with a virus.

You can get a virus even if you are not connected to the internet

Virus protection software isn't foolproof. Hackers are always trying to invent new ways to circumvent or disable this software

Explanation

Virus protection software isn't foolproof. Hackers are always trying to invent new ways to circumvent or disable this software

10. For the safety and health of your computer hardware and software, you should do all of the following EXCEPT:

Use a surge protector

Reformat your hard drive at least once per year

Routinely Back up your data

Keep your computer cool and clean

You would probably not want to reformat your hard drive unless it is absolutely necessary, due to some catastrophic event such as a virus which cannot otherwise be removed from your computer.

Explanation

You would probably not want to reformat your hard drive unless it is absolutely necessary, due to some catastrophic event such as a virus which cannot otherwise be removed from your computer.