Chapter 8 Programming: Unit 8.3: File Handling

Question 1

Describe the purpose of storing data in a file.

Answer 1

Computer programs store data that will be required again in a file. While any data stored in RAM will be lost when the computer is switched off, when data is saved to a file it is stored permanently. Data stored in a file can thus be accessed by the same program at a later date or accessed by another program. Data stored in a file can also be sent to be used on other computer(s). The storage of data in files is one of the most used features of programming.