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Quizzes > Engineering & Technology

Intro Computing: Non-Tech Quiz

Free Practice Quiz & Exam Preparation

Difficulty: Moderate
Questions: 15
Study OutcomesAdditional Reading
3D voxel art representing Intro Computing Non-Tech course

This engaging practice quiz for Intro Computing: Non-Tech is designed to help you master essential computing concepts, from system components like hardware and networking to widely used applications including spreadsheets and databases. It also introduces practical programming techniques for solving everyday problems, empowering non-science majors to build confidence and enjoy a hands-on approach to computing in academic and professional settings.

Which component of a computer system performs arithmetic and logical operations?
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Operating System
Spreadsheet Software
Computer Network
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the hardware that executes arithmetic and logic operations, making it essential in computing. The other options represent software or network elements rather than hardware processing units.
Which type of software is commonly used to organize, analyze, and present data in tables and charts?
Spreadsheet Software
Operating System
System Utility
Programming Language
Spreadsheet software is designed specifically for data organization, calculations, and visual presentation. The other options serve different computing functions and are not optimized for managing and analyzing tabular data.
Which device is commonly used to connect computers within a local area network (LAN)?
Network Switch
Keyboard
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Printer
A network switch connects multiple computers in a LAN by directing data between them. The other options do not facilitate network connectivity.
What is a program in computing?
A set of instructions for solving a problem
A hardware component that processes data
An operating system for managing computer resources
A network protocol for data transfer
A program is a sequence of instructions that a computer follows to perform specific tasks or solve problems. The other choices describe hardware components or system-level functions rather than a set of instructions.
Which feature is a key benefit of using spreadsheets in data analysis?
Automatic calculation of values
Managing network security
Processing graphic-intensive tasks
Direct hardware management
Spreadsheet software enables automatic calculations based on user inputs, which streamlines data analysis and reduces errors. The other options do not relate to the primary functionality of spreadsheets.
How does the operating system interact with hardware components in a computer system?
It provides an interface between applications and hardware resources
It directly manufactures hardware components
It only handles network traffic without hardware integration
It stores user data without managing peripherals
The operating system manages hardware resources and offers an interface for applications to interact with these resources effectively. The incorrect choices misrepresent the primary role of the operating system.
Which of the following best explains the concept of a computer network?
A group of interconnected computers sharing resources and information
A single computer performing multiple tasks
A software tool for creating databases
A device that exclusively stores data
A computer network connects multiple devices to enable the sharing of resources and information. The other options do not capture the essence of interconnected systems.
What is a primary function of spreadsheet formulas?
Automatically calculate values based on cell references
Design graphical user interfaces
Store data without computation
Manage network configuration
Spreadsheet formulas are used to perform automatic calculations by referencing specific cells, which minimizes manual errors and improves efficiency. The other options are not related to the computational purpose of formulas.
What is debugging in programming?
The process of identifying and fixing errors in code
Writing new code to add additional features
Compiling code into an executable file
Designing graphical user interfaces
Debugging is the systematic process of detecting, diagnosing, and correcting errors or bugs in a program's source code. The other options describe different stages or functions in software development.
What distinguishes a relational database from other types of databases?
It organizes data into tables linked by relationships
It stores all information in a single, unstructured file
It operates solely using spreadsheet interfaces
It functions only as a front-end web technology
Relational databases structure data into tables that can relate to one another, enabling efficient data retrieval and organization. The other options fail to describe the structured, interrelated nature of relational databases.
What is an algorithm in the context of computing?
A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem
A tool for encrypting network data
A type of computer hardware
A method for designing spreadsheet layouts
An algorithm is a precise set of instructions designed to solve a particular problem through well-defined steps. The other options misinterpret the concept or apply unrelated functions.
Which function is commonly used within spreadsheets to calculate the sum of a range of cells?
SUM
IF
VLOOKUP
AVERAGE
The SUM function is designed to add numerical values within a range of cells, making it ideal for aggregation tasks in spreadsheets. The other functions serve different purposes such as conditional logic or lookup operations.
What is a protocol in computer networking?
A set of rules that govern data communication between devices
A hardware device used to route data
A software application for managing databases
A language used to write computer programs
Protocols are essential in networking as they define the standards and rules for effective and organized data exchange between devices. The incorrect options do not capture this rule-based system.
How does device driver software contribute to computer functionality?
It enables communication between the operating system and hardware devices
It directly stores or manages user data on hardware
It enhances networking capabilities without involving hardware
It generates programming code automatically for hardware devices
Device drivers act as intermediaries that enable the operating system to communicate effectively with hardware peripherals. The other options inaccurately describe the driver's role in system functionality.
In programming, what does the term 'variable' refer to?
A storage location that holds a value and can be modified
A fixed value that cannot change during program execution
A hardware component responsible for executing code
A function used to manage database connections
A variable in programming is a symbolic name that refers to a storage location where data can be held and modified during execution. The other options either misinterpret this concept or conflate it with unrelated functionalities.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand the fundamental components of computer systems and their functions.
  2. Analyze the interrelationships between hardware, software, and networks.
  3. Apply spreadsheet and database applications to solve practical academic and professional problems.
  4. Interpret basic programming concepts to approach simple problem-solving tasks.
  5. Evaluate how computing tools enhance productivity in various application areas.

Intro Computing: Non-Tech Additional Reading

Embarking on your computing journey? Here are some top-notch resources to guide you through the essentials:

  1. Introduction to Computer Programming, Application Development, Computer Science I & II Open Course This open course from Middle Georgia State University offers a comprehensive introduction to Python programming, tailored for beginners. It's a fantastic starting point for non-technical majors diving into computing.
  2. An Introduction to Computing This resource provides a broad overview of computing concepts, making it ideal for students from various fields seeking foundational knowledge in computing.
  3. An Introductory Computer Science Course for Non-Majors This paper discusses an approach to teaching computer science to students without a technical background, offering insights into course structure and content that could enhance your learning experience.
  4. CS-1004, Introduction to Programming for Non-Majors Worcester Polytechnic Institute's course page provides valuable materials and outlines for an introductory programming course designed specifically for non-majors, focusing on Python programming.
  5. Introduction to the History of Computing: A Computing History Primer This book traces the evolution of computing from ancient times to modern-day smartphones, offering context and depth to your understanding of computing systems.
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