What you'll learn
The main parts of a computer and the software that runs it.
Key ideas
- The CPU processes instructions; the ALU performs calculations.
- RAM (volatile) vs ROM (non-volatile); cache for fast access.
- The fetch-decode-execute cycle.
- System software (OS) vs application software.
Exam tips
- Learn the role of each component.
- Distinguish volatile from non-volatile memory.
Common mistakes
- Confusing RAM and ROM.
- Mixing up system and application software.