Lesson 1

• A computer is an electronic device that accepts data from the user, processes it, produces results, displays them to the users, and stores the results for future usage.
• Data is a collection of unorganized facts & figures and does not provide any further information regarding patterns, context, etc. Hence data means "unstructured facts and figures".
• Information is a structured data i.e. organized meaningful and processed data. To process the data and convert into information, a computer is used
• The term hardware refers to mechanical device that makes up computer. Computer hardware consists of interconnected electronic devices that we can use to control computer’s operation, input, and output. Examples of hardware are CPU, keyboard, mouse, hard disk, etc.
• Computer hardware is a collection of several components working together. Some parts are essential, and others are added advantages. Computer hardware is made up of CPU and peripherals
• Software is a set of instructions that drives computer to do stipulated tasks is called a program.
• Software instructions are programmed in a computer language, translated into machine language, and executed by computer.
• Software can be categorized into two types − System software and Application software
• System software operates directly on hardware devices of computer. It provides a platform to run an application. It provides and supports user functionality. Examples of system software include operating systems such as Windows, Linux, Unix, etc.
• An application software is designed for benefit of users to perform one or more tasks. Examples include Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Oracle, etc.
• A computer is a tool used for processing data into information. The processing is controlled by a set of detailed step by step instructions.
• The list of instructions that the computer must follow to 11 be able to process data into information is called program or software.
• To solve a problem, we need to use our mind power or logic to develop the detailed instructions.
• The procedure of developing the detailed instructions for the computer is called programming. It is a five-step process namely: 1. Define the problem 2. Design the solution/program 3. Code the program 4. Test the program 5. Document the program
• Program coding is the step which translates the logic of the program based on the pseudo-code (algorithm) or flowcharts into a high-level programming language using the syntax and semantics of the specific language.
• Program testing consists of desk checking, debugging, and running real data to make sure that the program works.