IST Yearly 2023 (Software) Flashcards
Types of software
Utility software - manages and tunes system or application software
Embedded software medical imaging equipment, Traffic control systems
Application software - performs a specific personal, educational, or business function
3 types of interface
Command line interface - a text-based interface where you can input commands that interact with a computer’s operating system
Natural Language Interface - user interface in which the user and the system communicate via a natural (human) language
Graphical user interface - a digital interface in which a user interacts with graphical components such as icons, buttons, and menus
What is a design?
Design is a solution without considering platform constraints
eg. Pseudocodes, Flowcharts, Wireframes
What is a GUI interface?
Graphical User Interface; a visual way of interacting with a computer using graphical elements like icons and buttons.
What is the difference between system software and application software?
System software manages hardware, essential services for computer programs, platform for applications; application software performs specific tasks for users.
Outline the purpose of systems software
Manages hardware, provides essential services for computer programs, platform to launch and run applications.
What is the purpose of an operating system?
Provides a user interface, and facilitates communication between the computer and the user.
What is a utilities software?
Part of system software designed to help manage and tune computer hardware, and keep computer running
Name and describe 5 different utilities used on most computers.
Antivirus:
Disk Cleanup:
Backup Software:
Decompressor
Task Manager:
Name and describe three different types of communication software.
Email Clients
Chat Applications
Video Conferencing
What is project management software, and why is it used?
Helps plan and execute projects efficiently
Name and describe two other types of application software?
Word Processors
Spreadsheet Software
Why do most applications use standard user interfaces?
Enhances user experience by providing familiarity and consistency.
Discuss three features found in most packages that aid in the formatting of the document.
Font Styles:
Paragraph Formatting:
Page Layout Options:
Name three ways that a document can be protected against harm.
Encryption:
Password Protection:
Backup:
What is version control, and why is it used?
Tracks changes in documents/code during collaboration
What is a macro?
A set of instructions that automate repetitive tasks e.g. Microsoft word auto formatting
Name three types of interface design and give an example of where each one is used.
Graphical User Interface (GUI): Used in operating systems like Windows.
Command Line Interface (CLI): Used in programming environments.
Natural Language Interface: Used in voice-activated assistants like Siri.
Discuss the features of a graphical user interface screen that make it user-friendly.
Icons, menus, buttons, and windows for intuitive navigation.
Discuss what is meant by the term consistency of elements when using a GUI.
Elements (buttons, fonts) should have a uniform appearance
Discuss three control elements used on a GUI which help with data validation.
Drop-down Menus: Limit choices to predefined options.
Input Masks: Define acceptable data formats.
Error Messages: Provide feedback on incorrect inputs.
Explain why borders around screen elements and white space are vital in creating a user-friendly layout.
Improves readability and reduces visual clutter.
Data types
character data – single letter
string data – hold strings of characters
integer or whole numbers
real numbers – used for decimals
Boolean data – used to represent true or false
date and time data
Three main operator types
Arithmetic (math-based, uses real and integers to perform operations on vars, r = i + i is valid, i != r X 4)
Relational (=, <>, >= boolean)
Logical (AND, OR, NOT allow two or more Boolean expressions to be combined to create logical expressions.)
Variable constraints:
Cannot include keywords, such as IF or THEN (ok if it is combined)
No special characters, and cannot start (@,etc.)
No spaces
Up to 40 characters
Operating system
the low-level software that supports a computer’s basic functions
Outline the difference between real and integer numbers
Integers do not have a decimal point, while real numbers do. In computer programs integers do not hold very large numeric values due to their memory size, so real number are also selected as a type if the whole number is very large.
