### **Question 1**

**(a)** State four examples of utility software used in computers. *(2 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. Antivirus software (e.g., Norton, Avast).

2. Disk Defragmenter (optimizes hard drive performance).

3. Backup software (e.g., Windows Backup).

4. File compression tools (e.g., WinZip, 7-Zip).

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**(b)** (i) Differentiate between hard disk and CD ROM. *(3 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. **Storage Type**: Hard disks use magnetic storage; CD-ROMs use optical storage.

2. **Read/Write Capability**: Hard disks are rewritable; CD-ROMs are read-only.

3. **Capacity**: Hard disks have larger storage capacity (e.g., terabytes) compared to CD-ROMs
(typically 700 MB).

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(ii) Describe the circumstances under which each of the following input devices is most appropriate:

**I. Flatbed scanner** *(2 marks)*

**Answer:**

A flatbed scanner is ideal for digitizing physical documents, photos, or books where high-resolution
scanning is required, and the item needs to lie flat without damage.

**II. MICR** *(2 marks)*

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) is used in banking to process checks, as it reads magnetic ink
characters (e.g., account numbers) quickly and accurately.

---

**(c)** Explain three uses of computers in the human resources department. *(6 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. **Payroll Management**: Automating salary calculations, tax deductions, and generating payslips.

2. **Employee Database**: Storing and managing employee records (e.g., attendance, performance,
personal details).

3. **Recruitment**: Posting job ads online, filtering applications, and conducting virtual interviews.

---

### **Question 2**

**(a)** State one advantage and one disadvantage of a laptop over a desktop. *(2 marks)*

**Answer:**

- **Advantage**: Portability (can be used anywhere with battery power).

- **Disadvantage**: Limited upgradeability compared to desktops.

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**(b)** (i) Outline three advantages of off-the-shelf computer software. *(3 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. Cost-effective (cheaper than custom software).

3. Technical support and regular updates provided by the vendor.

---

(ii) Describe three ways Anne could create a memo using a word processing program. *(6 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. **Blank Document**: Start a new file and type the memo from scratch.

2. **Template**: Use a pre-designed memo template (e.g., in Microsoft Word).

3. **Copy and Edit**: Duplicate an existing memo file and modify the content.

---

**(c)** State the appropriate keys for Jose’s tasks in a Windows environment: *(4 marks)*

(i) Activate the numeric pad: **Num Lock**

(ii) Toggle between upper and lower cases: **Caps Lock**

(iii) Activate user help: **F1**

(iv) Activate the programs menu: **Windows key**

---

### **Question 3**

**(a)** Outline two examples of transaction files and one example of a reference file in sales
departments. *(3 marks)*

**Answer:**

- **Transaction Files**: Sales invoices, purchase orders.

---

**(b)** Differentiate between data and information. *(4 marks)*

**Answer:**

- **Data**: Raw, unprocessed facts (e.g., numbers, text).

- **Information**: Processed data that is organized and meaningful (e.g., sales reports).

---

**(c)** (i) Explain two uses of spreadsheet programs. *(4 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. **Data Analysis**: Performing calculations (e.g., budgets, statistical analysis).

2. **Visualization**: Creating charts (e.g., bar graphs, pie charts) to represent data trends.

---

(ii) Explain the typical parts of a magnetic disk storage surface (with diagram description). *(4 marks)*

**Answer:**

A magnetic disk has:

1. **Tracks**: Concentric circles where data is stored.

2. **Sectors**: Subdivisions of tracks.

3. **Read/Write Head**: Moves across the disk to access data.

4. **Spindle**: Rotates the disk for data access.

---

### **Question 4**

**(a)** (i) Explain the term "computer virus." *(2 marks)*

**Answer:**

A computer virus is malicious software that replicates itself and spreads to other files/systems, often
damaging data or disrupting operations.

---

(ii) Outline three measures Faith could use to safeguard her laptop. *(3 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. Install antivirus software and update it regularly.

2. Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources.

3. Enable a firewall and keep the OS updated.

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**(b)** Write the general syntax for:

(i) **SUMIF**: `=SUMIF(range, criteria, [sum_range])`

(ii) **VLOOKUP**: `=VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, [range_lookup])`

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**(c)** Describe three network devices required for a LAN. *(6 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. **Router**: Connects the LAN to the internet and manages data traffic.

2. **Switch**: Directs data between devices within the LAN.

3. **Firewall**: Protects the network from unauthorized access.

---

### **Question 5**

**(a)** Outline three measures to address computer ergonomics in schools. *(3 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. Adjustable chairs and desks for proper posture.

2. Monitors placed at eye level to reduce neck strain.

3. Adequate lighting to minimize eye strain.

---

**(b)** Explain the functions of:

(i) **Primary Key**: Uniquely identifies each record in a database table.

(ii) **Field**: Stores a specific type of data (e.g., "Name" or "Age").

(iii) **Relationship**: Links tables based on common fields (e.g., foreign keys).

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### **Question 6**

**(a)** Distinguish between superscript and subscript with illustrations. *(4 marks)*

**Answer:**

- **Superscript**: Text above the baseline (e.g., E=mc²).

- **Subscript**: Text below the baseline (e.g., H₂O).

*(Illustration would show "²" as superscript and "₂" as subscript.)*

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**(b)** Explain two disadvantages of mesh topology. *(3 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. **Complex Setup**: Requires extensive cabling between all devices.

2. **High Cost**: More hardware (e.g., routers) and maintenance needed.

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**(c)** (i) Outline four typical views in presentation programs. *(4 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. Normal View

2. Slide Sorter View

3. Notes Page View

4. Slide Show View

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(ii) Describe the procedure to create a pie chart in a presentation slide. *(4 marks)*

**Answer:**

1. Click **Insert** > **Chart**.

2. Select **Pie Chart** from the menu.

3. Enter data in the spreadsheet window that opens.

4. Customize the chart (colors, labels) and close the spreadsheet.

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**End of Answers**