OCR GCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE

GLOSSARY

The OCR GCSE Computer Science Glossary contains the key

vocabulary you need to learn for your OCR GCSE Computer Science
paper. Find all the terms and definitions you need to understand, from
‘1D’ to ‘write to‘.

1 - A (1D to authentication) K
1D
A 1D array contains a one-dimensional sequence of elements. A
single index number identifies each element.

2D
A 2D array organises data in a table-like structure. Each data item

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 is identified by two numbers – the row number, then the column
number.

Abstraction
Abstraction simplifies a problem by including only the necessary
facts to solve it.

Accumulator (ACC)
The accumulator stores the results of each calculation the
arithmetic/logic unit (ALU) performs.

Algorithm
An algorithm defines the logical or mathematical steps to solve a
problem. It must be accurate, repeatable, and understandable.

AND
The Boolean operator AND joins two Boolean expressions to
create a new one. If both parts of the expression are True, then the
new expression is True. If either part of the expression is False,
then the new expression is False.

Array
An array exemplifies a data structure. It has an identifier and stores
many data values.

Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU)

The arithmetic/logic unit (ALU) processes data using binary maths
and logic.

Arithmetic operator
Arithmetic operators carry out numerical operations and change
number values.

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 ASCII
ASCII serves as a common character set in coding. It contains
fewer than 255 codes and includes only basic keyboard
characters.

Assign
Assigning gives a value to a variable using the equals sign.

Authentication
Authentication checks user identity to stop the wrong people from
using a programme.

B (Bandwidth to byte) K
Bandwidth
Bandwidth measures the number of signals that can travel through
the transmission media of the network connection simultaneously.

Binary
Binary is base 2, meaning that binary numbers are made out of
two digits: 1 and 0.

Binary search
A binary search finds a value in an array by identifying the middle
value and comparing it to the search term. It splits the array in half,
removing the lower half if the term is larger than the middle value,
or the upper half if it is smaller. This process repeats until the array
is reduced to one element.

Binary Shift
A binary shift moves all the bits in a binary number to the left or
right to multiply or divide.

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 Biometrics
Biometrics authenticate a user by using physical characteristics,
such as a thumbprint. (See ‘authentication’.)

Bit
A bit, short for ‘binary digit,’ is a single digit in a binary number and
can have the value 1 or 0.

Bit depth
Bit depth measures the number of bits in an audio sample. A
greater bit depth produces more realistic and natural sound.

Bluetooth
Bluetooth enables digital communication with nearby devices.

Boolean / Boolean expression

Boolean, or Boolean expressions, represent a data type that is
either True or False.

Boolean operator
Boolean operators combine Boolean expressions to create a larger
Boolean expression.

Boundary data
Boundary data, a type of test data, shows inputs that are on the
edge of being incorrect.

Bubble sort
A bubble sort is an algorithm that works by traversing the array
with a for loop, swapping values that are the wrong way round. It
repeats this traversal until no more swaps are needed.

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 Byte
A byte consists of eight bits, each with a different place value.

C (Cache to clock speed) K

Cache
A cache is a small area of fast-access memory. Use of cache
speeds up computer processes.

Called
A procedure is called by including the name of the procedure in the
main program. The commands inside the procedure will be carried
out when the procedure is called.

Carry bit
A carry bit is an additional number in binary arithmetic that is
’carried’ to the next column if the result is larger than 1.

Case / switch
The switch structure is a form of conditional structure that gives a
range of possible values for a variable. Each possible value is
called a case. Each case is followed by a different set of
commands.

Casting
Casting is when the data type of a variable is changed. It is also
called type-casting.

Central processing unit (CPU)

The central processing unit (CPU) is the processor that controls
and executes operations. It includes the control unit (CU) and
arithmetic/logic unit (ALU).

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 Character
A character is a data type that holds a single text character.

Client-server
A client-server a type of computer network. The server holds most
of the files and the clients get their files from the server.

Clock signals
Clock signals are regular pulses of electricity that are sent out by
the control unit (CU) to time the fetch-execute cycles.

Clock speed
Clock speed is the speed by which clock signals are sent out. The
faster the speed, the faster the computer will run.

C (Closed file to cultural) K

Closed file
When you close a file, the system removes it from active memory,
preventing further edits.

Colour depth
Colour depth defines how many bits a system uses to store each
pixel’s colour code. Increasing the colour depth allows the system
to display more realistic colours.

Comment
Programmers write comments in their code to help human readers
understand what the code does. The computer ignores these
comments during execution. In exam reference language,
comments start with the // symbol.

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 Comparison operator
Programmers use comparison operators to compare two values.
These operators, also known as relational operators, include
symbols like > and ==.

Compiler
A compiler translates an entire program by reading it, converting it
into machine code, and saving the result as a new file.

Concatenation
Concatenation joins strings together to create a new, longer string.

Condition-controlled loop
A condition-controlled loop uses a Boolean expression to
determine whether it should continue running. Programmers use
keywords like while or until to define these loops, especially when
they don’t know in advance how many times the loop should
repeat.

Constant
A constant stores a value that stays the same while the
programme runs.

Control unit (CU)

The control unit (CU) manages all other parts of the computer. It
sends signals that direct each component on what actions to
perform.

Copyright
Copyright gives creators the legal rights to their work. It lets them
control who can copy or use it, ensures they’re credited as the
creator, and allows them to earn money from its use.

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 Count-controlled loop
A count-controlled loop repeats a specific number of times.
Programmers use the keyword for to create this type of loop when
they know in advance how many repetitions are needed.

Cultural
Cultural ideas and creations include things such as art, media and
crafts which enrich our society.

D (Database to domain name) K

Database
A database organises data into structured tables for easy access
and management.

Data protection
Data protection is the protection of personal data. It is upheld by
the Data Protection Act, which was extended in 2018 as the GDPR
(General Data Protection Regulations).

Data type
Every program assigns a data type to each value or expression,
based on how it stores the data. Programmers commonly use data
types like integer, float, string, and Boolean

Decomposition
Programmers use decomposition to break a large problem into
smaller, manageable parts. Solving, writing, and testing these
smaller problems becomes much easier.

Default
When none of the cases in an algorithm match, the program runs

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 the commands under the default case.

Denary
People use the denary number system in everyday life. It operates
on base 10, meaning that numbers in denary are made out of ten
digits (0 to 9).

Denial of service
Denial of service (DoS or DDoS) occurs when authorised access
to a network is interrupted. Hackers do this by overloading the
network with requests.

Device driver
A device driver enables your computer to control peripheral
devices by providing the necessary software interface.

Diagnostic / error diagnostic

A diagnostic tool identifies errors in your code and explains what’s
wrong.

Digital data
Digital systems use on/off signals to represent data, encoding
them as binary numbers.

Digital technology
Digital technology refers to devices that process data in digital
form.

Domain name
A domain name uses text to identify web resources like web
pages.

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 E (Elements to environment) K
Ethernet connects computers to a network
using a standard cable-based
method.Elements
An array stores data values called elements. Each element uses
the array’s name followed by an index number to identify it.

Else
Programmers use the keyword ‘else’ in conditional structures. The
structure starts with ‘if’ and a logical test. If the test fails, the
program runs the commands that follow ‘else’.

Elseif
Elseif commands are used to build conditional structures with
multiple logical tests. Each ‘elseif’ is followed by a different logical
test.

Embedded system
Devices like cars and fridges use embedded systems that include
built-in processors to control specific functions.

Encryption
Encryption scrambles digital signals using a hidden code, allowing
only those with the encryption key to read the message.

Erroneous data
Testers use erroneous data to check how a program responds to
user mistakes.

Error message
An error message points out a problem in the program, showing

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 what type of error occurred and where it happened.

Ethernet
Ethernet connects computers to a network using a standard cable-
based method.

Ethics
Ethics defines the rules that guide people to distinguish right from
wrong.

Environment
The environment includes the natural world—the biological and
physical surroundings we live in.

F (Fetch-execute cycle to function) K

Fetch-execute cycle
The fetch-execute cycle moves data and instructions through the
processor while the computer runs. This process, also known as
the instruction cycle.

Field
A field stores a single item of data in a data table. Each record in
the table includes the same set of fields, which appear as columns.

Final testing
Testers perform final testing after programmers finish developing
the code and prepare the program for release or sale. This stage
checks the entire program to ensure it works as intended.

Firewall
A firewall is a piece of hardware which uses built-in software to

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 inspect every signal entering or leaving a network, protecting it
from unauthorised access.

Fixed length
A fixed-length data structure, such as an array, maintains a
constant size that doesn’t change during execution

Flash storage
Flash storage stores data using solid-state technology and
appears in devices like USB sticks, solid-state drives (SSDs), and
SD cards. It’s also known as solid-state storage.

Float
The float data type, also known as real, stores numbers that
include decimal points.

Flowchart
Flowcharts use diagrams made of boxes and arrows to map out
the structure of an algorithm, showing the sequence of actions step
by step.

For loop
A ‘for loop’ controls repetition by using a counter variable and
starting with the keyword ‘for’. The loop repeats a set number of
times, based on the value stored in the counter. The variable
stores the number of repeats.

Function
Functions carry out commands and return a new value to the main
programme.

G - I (General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to

iterative testing) K

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 General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a Europe-wide
agreement which upholds the UK Data Protection Act.

Global variable
A global variable allows any part of the program—including all
procedures and functions—to access and use its value.

Hackers
Hackers attempt to disrupt computer networks or gain
unauthorised access to them.

Hexadecimal
Hexadecimal uses base 16, so it represents numbers using 16
distinct digits.

High level language

Programmers use high-level languages like Python, Java, and C++
because these languages align with how humans think and work.
Most programs are written in high-level languages.

If
A conditional structure begins with the keyword if and a logical test.
The commands that follow are carried out if the test is true.

Indented
Programmers indent commands by setting them in from the edge
of the page or screen to show the structure of a program. They
indent commands inside structures like loops to make the code
easier to read and understand.

Index number

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 An index number identifies an element’s position in an array and
appears in square brackets [ ].

Input
An IPO model begins with inputs—starting facts or values—that
the program processes to produce outputs.

Insertion sort
An insertion sort is an algorithm that works by traversing the array,
and passing any items that are out of place backwards to their
correct position. It is typically slightly faster than the bubble sort.

Integer
Programmers use the integer data type to represent whole
numbers without decimal points.

Integrated development environment (IDE)

Programmers use an integrated development environment (IDE)—
software designed specifically for writing code—to develop their
programs efficiently.

Intellectual property rights (IPR)

Intellectual property rights (IPR) protect creations of the mind—
such as inventions, computer programs, and designs—by granting
legal rights to their creators.

Interpreter
An interpreter translates code by reading one command at a time
and immediately instructing the computer to execute it, without
creating a new file.

Invalid data
Invalid data is a type of test data. Testers use invalid data to check

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 how a programme handles inputs it doesn’t allow. This type of test
data helps identify errors in input validation.

IP address
An IP address is provided to every device with an internet
connection. IP stands for ‘internet protocol’. Devices use this
address to send signals to the correct destination online.

IPO (input, processing, output) model

The IPO model (Input, Processing, Output) outlines how a
programme or algorithm works. It takes inputs, processes them,
and produces outputs.

Iteration
Iteration involves repeating actions. Programmers use loops as
iterative structures to execute code multiple times.

Iterative testing
Developers perform iterative testing throughout a program’s
development. They repeatedly test the program until they find and
fix all errors.

L (Least significant bit to low level language) K

Least significant bit
A byte stores bits in different positions, and the ‘least significant bit’
sits in the spot with the smallest place value. This bit affects the
number the least, but it’s still important.

License
A license allows a person or group of people to use software,
usually for a fee.

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 Linear search
A linear search uses a for loop to go through an array and compare
each item to the search term. When it finds a match, it identifies
the item as found.

Local area network (LAN)

A local area network (LAN) joins computers that are close to each
other, such as those on the same building or site.

Local variable
A subroutine creates a local variable and allows it to be used only
within that subroutine.

Logic circuit
A logic circuit is formed by joining logic gates together.

Logic diagram
A logic diagram shows how logic gates are wired together to form a
logic circuit.

Logic gate
A logic gate takes inputs and converts them into outputs using a
special circuit.

Logical error
A program produces a logical error when it gives unwanted or
unexpected output.

Loop structure
A loop structure repeats one or more commands, a process also
known as iteration.

Lossless compression

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 Lossless compression reduces a file’s size without removing any
data, so it keeps the original quality, even though the file may not
shrink as much as with lossy compression.

Lossy compression
Lossy compression reduces a file’s size by removing some data,
which causes a loss in quality.

Low level language

Programmers use Low level language, such as machine code and
assembly language, to write instructions that closely match the
way computers work. This includes machine code and assembly
language. These languages are less easy to use than high level
languages.

M (MAC address to multi-tasking) K

MAC address
Manufacturers assign a MAC address to each digital device to
identify it. This ‘media access control’ address directs signals on a
local network to the correct device.

Magnetic storage
Magnetic storage is a form of storage that is magnetic, such the
hard drive of a computer or magnetic tape.

Maintainable
A maintainable program is easy to correct, improve, and extend.

Malware
Malware refers to malicious software such computer viruses that
can force your computer to perform unwanted actions.

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 Memory / memory unit
A computer uses memory to store the data and instructions it
needs while operating, holding them in live electrical circuits.

Memory address register (MAR)

The memory address register (MAR) holds the memory address to
fetch from during the fetch part of the fetch-execute cycle, and the
address to save to during the store part of the cycle.

Memory data register (MDR)

The memory data register (MDR) stores data fetched from memory
during the fetch part of the cycle, and holds data ready to be
written back during the store part of the cycle.

Merge sort
A merge sort algorithm splits the array into single items, then
repeatedly merges them into increasingly larger sorted arrays until
it forms a single fully sorted array.

Mesh topology
A mesh topology connects devices through multiple pathways,
ensuring the network remains stable and operational even if some
connections fail.

Metadata
The additional image information held in some image files. It stores
information such as the size or shape of the image.

Method
Programmers use methods as a type of subroutine, similar to
functions but written slightly differently.

Modular testing

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 Modular testing focuses on testing individual modules of a
program, making the process quicker and easier than testing the
entire programme.

Modulus
A modulus is an arithmetic operator which divides one number by
another and shows the remainder only.

Most significant bit

The bit with the largest place value in a byte determines the most
significant bit.

Multi-tasking
A single computer runs more than one application at the same time
when it performs multi-tasking.

N - P (Network to peripherals) K
Network
Computers form a network by connecting through digital
communication links.

Network interface controller (NIC)

A network interface controller (NIC) uses electronic components to
let a computer send and receive network signals.

Nibble
A nibble groups four bits together.

Normal data
Normal data is a type of test data. It tests the effect of normal,
expected inputs.

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 NOT
NOT is a Boolean operator that reverses the value of a Boolean
expression.

Open file
The system copies an open file into memory so it can be read or
edited.

Open-source
Open-source software is usually free to use and copy without
charge.

Operating system
An operating system bundles together all the systems software
needed to make the computer work properly. It is usually installed
when you buy a computer.

Optical storage
A laser beam reads data from optical storage devices such as
CDs, DVDs, or BluRay discs.

OR
The OR Boolean operator joins two Boolean expressions to create
a new one. If either expression is True, the operator makes the
whole expression True. If both expressions are False, the operator
makes the new expression False.

Output
The outputs are the answers or values you need from a program.
The outputs are made by transforming the inputs to the
programme.

Parameter

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 A parameter is used like a variable inside a subroutine. The value
of the parameter is sent from the main programme when the
subroutine is called.

Password
A person proves their identity with a password when they log on to
a network.

Peer-to-peer
In a peer-to-peer network, all computers share an equal
relationship, sending and receiving files without any one computer
taking priority.

Peripherals
Peripherals are input and output devices that are connected to the
processor.

P (Pharming to pseudocode) K
Pharming
Pharming is when someone tries to trick people by creating a fake
website.

Phishing
Phishers try to trick people by sending fake emails.

Pixel
Pixels, short for ‘picture elements,’ form digital images by
combining tiny dots or points of light.

Predefined function
A predefined function is a ready-made function included in most

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 programming languages.

Pre-requisite
Every process depends on certain conditions, called prerequisites,
to function correctly. For example, the binary search algorithm
needs a sorted array before it can run.

Primary storage
Computers access data more quickly from primary storage—also
called RAM or memory—than from secondary storage.

Privacy
People protect their privacy by keeping certain personal
information hidden from public view. Technology users should
handle others’ information with care and respect their privacy.

Procedure
A procedure is a type of subroutine that carries out commands
when called by the main programme. Each procedure uses a
unique name or identifier.

Processing
In an IPO model, a process transforms inputs into outputs through
a series of steps. In a computational problem, these steps must
follow logical or mathematical rules.

Programme counter (PC)

The programme counter (PC) holds the address for the next
instruction and steps through the programme line by line during the
fetch-execute cycle.

Proprietary
Proprietary software is owned by the people or organisation that

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 made it. They earn money by selling licenses to use the software.

Protocol
A protocol is a standard for communication, such as hypertext
transfer protocol (HTTP).

Pseudocode
Pseudocode is pretend program code. Programmers often write
algorithms in pseudocode—a simplified, language-neutral way of
writing code—so others can easily understand it, regardless of the
programming language they use.

Q - R (Quotient to run-time error) K

Quotient
A quotient is an arithmetic operation which divides one number by
another and shows the whole number part of the result.

RAM
RAM stands for Random Access Memory (RAM). It is also known
as memory.

Readable
Programmers find it easier to understand a readable program,
which improves its maintainability.

Read from
Read from is a file operation which gives you a value from a file in
storage.

Read-only access
With read-only access, users can view files but not make changes.

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 Read-write access
With read-write access, users can view and make changes to files.

Real
The real data type, also known as float, stores numbers that
include a decimal point.

Record
A record stores all the information about an item in a single row of
a data table.

Registers (PC, MDR, MAR, ACC)

Registers are the tiny memory locations in the processor that hold
a single binary number – typically either data or the address of a
memory location.

Relevant
Relevant facts are the pieces of information that solve a problem.

Resolution
Resolution is the number of pixels used to form an image. The
higher the resolution, the greater the number of pixels, and the
higher the quality of the image.

Returned value
A returned value is the value returned to the main program by a
function.

ROM
ROM, or Read-Only Memory, stores the start-up instructions for a
computer. The contents of ROM cannot change.

Router

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 A router connects one network to another.

Run-time environment
The run-time environment lets the user input values, and shows
the outputs and any run-time errors of the programme.

Run-time error
A run-time error occurs when a programme tries to make the
computer perform an impossible task. This action can cause the
programme to crash.

S (Sample rate to sort algorithm) K

Sample rate
The sample rate measures how many times per second the
system samples a sound. Increasing the sample rate improves the
sound quality.

Search algorithms
Search algorithms use different methods to find a value in a data
structure.

Search condition
A search condition defines the criteria used to search a data table,
such as in the SQL language.

Search term
The search term is the value being searched for in a search
algorithm.

Secondary storage / storage

Secondary storage is used to hold instructions and data that are

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 not in use. They are held as files in storage. It does not rely on
electricity. Secondary storage is also called storage.

SELECT… FROM… WHERE

SELECT… FROM… WHERE are structured query language (SQL)
keywords. SELECT lets you choose specific fields, FROM
specifies the data table to search, and WHERE filters the results to
find individual records.

Selection
A selection structure directs an algorithm to choose between
different actions based on a condition—often using an if statement
(see ‘If’ section).

Sequence
A sequence is a linear series of commands which are carried out
one at a time in the order they are given in the algorithm.

Sequential algorithm
A sequential algorithm follows a specific order of commands,
executing each one step by step.

Slicing
Slicing a string means to make a substring by copying part of the
original string.

Social engineering
Social engineering occurs when someone tries to trick people into
sharing their password or personal information such as banking
details.

Solid state storage

Solid state storage, also known as flash memory, stores data by

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 trapping electrons in solid material.

Sort algorithm
A sort algorithm arranges the elements of an array in a specific
order, using one of several available methods.

S (Sorted array to syntax error) K

Sorted array
A sorted array arranges its values in numerical or alphabetical
order.

SQL
Structured Query Language (SQL) is a specialist language to work
with databases.

SQL injection
SQL injection is a form of hacking. It is used to edit or delete data
in a database without permission.

Star topology
A star topology is a type of network. It is easy to set up and works
by connecting all computers to a central hub or switch

String
A string is a data type that stores text characters, usually shown in
quote marks.

Structured code
Developers create structured code by breaking it down into smaller
subsections through decomposition.

Structure diagram

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 A structure diagram shows the sub programmes that make up a
programme.

Sub program / subroutine

A sub program is a block of code from a larger programme that is
saved using an identifier.

Substring
A substring is a new string that is made by copying part of an
original string.

Switch
A switch connects several computers in a network. It checks each
message and sends it to the right computer.

Syntax
Syntax defines the rules that programmers follow when writing a
programme.

Syntax error
The code triggers a syntax error when it breaks the rules of the
programming language.

T - U (Table to utilities) K
Table
A table stores data by organising all the facts about a particular
topic or subject.

Test data
Test data is the inputs used when testing a programme. A wide
range of test data should be used.

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 Trace an algorithm
Tracing an algorithm means going through the algorithm on paper,
recording how the variable values change.

Trace table
A trace table is used to trace an algorithm. It includes a column for
each variable, one for the line number, and one for the outputs.

Translator
A translator converts commands into signals the computer
understands.

Transmission media
Transmission media carries signals between computers in a
network.

Truth table
A truth table displays the inputs and outputs of a logic circuit or
gate.

Unicode
Unicode provides a common character set with thousands of
codes, including global alphabets, symbols, and emojis. It supports
more characters than ASCII but uses more memory space.

Until loop
An ‘until loop’ controls repetition using a condition and the keyword
until. It places the logical test at the end of the loop.

User access levels

User access levels control how people interact with files. A person
might have no access to some files, read-only access to others, or

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 full access to read and modify certain files.

User-friendly
A user-friendly programme guides users with clear messages and
prompts, making it easy for them to enter the correct values.

User interface
The user interface is how you control and interact with the
computer.

Utilities
Utilities are types of system software that carry out useful tasks.

V - W (Validation to write to) K

Validation
Validation means checking inputs before they are used in a
program, and stopping any bad inputs.

Variable
A variable stores values in a named memory location.

Virtual memory
Virtual memory means using storage as memory. For example, if
memory is too full. It is not accessed as quickly as memory.

Volatile
Volatile memory stores data using electricity. When the computer
loses power, it erases the memory’s contents. RAM functions as
volatile memory, while ROM does not.

Von Neumann architecture

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 Von Neumann architecture defines the structure of most modern
computers. It includes the processor, which performs all the
computer’s tasks, along with input and output devices.

Web hosting
Web hosting is when a server hosts a web page so people can
view it over the internet.

Web server
A web server is a computer which connects to the internet full-time
to serve web content.

While loop
A while loop is a condition-controlled loop which uses the keyword
while. The commands between while and endwhile will be
repeated.

Wide area network (WAN)

A wide area network (WAN) connects computers across different
sites, cities, or countries.

Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi enables devices to send and receive wireless signals.

Wireless access point (WAP)

A wireless access point (WAP) sends out signals such as radio
waves, to make a wireless connection.

Write to
‘Write to’ is a file operation that involves copying a value into a file
and saving it in storage.

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 Want to boost revision success for your
Computer Science exams?
Discover how to revise effectively for your Computer Science exams
Explore revision tips and techniques on the Oxford Revise YouTube
Channel.

Related books

OCR GCSE Computer

Science

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