Paper 2 — the kinds of question you'll get
Paper 2 (Computing concepts) is the theory paper: data representation, computer systems, networks, cyber security, databases, and the wider impacts of technology. It rewards clear recall and precise definitions more than coding. Practise it in the Quiz — pick Paper 2.
1. Definitions & short recall
State or define a term, give a characteristic, or name an example — e.g. what a particular protocol does, or the difference between two ideas.
How to approach it
- Learn the key term for each idea — the mark is usually for the right word.
- Watch the command word: State/Give wants a brief answer; Describe wants a bit more; Explain wants a reason or consequence.
- Note the marks: 2 marks usually means two distinct points.
2. Calculations & conversions
Binary/denary/hexadecimal conversions, file-size and storage calculations, working with units of information.
How to approach it
- Show the steps — a conversion done in stages is easier to get right and to check.
- Know your units (bit, byte, and the multiples) and the file-size formulas.
- Be careful with exact numbers: a single arithmetic slip loses the mark.
3. Multiple choice & "tick all that apply"
Choose the correct option, or select every option that fits.
How to approach it
- For single-answer, rule out the obviously wrong options first.
- For "tick all that apply", judge each option on its own — there may be one, two or several correct.
4. Logic & Boolean
Read logic gates and expressions (AND, OR, NOT) and work out outputs, or complete a truth table.
How to approach it
- Take a truth table row by row; work out each gate's output before combining.
- Know the symbols and the meaning of each gate cold.
5. SQL & databases
Read or write a small SQL query, or answer questions about a relational database (tables, fields, records, primary keys).
How to approach it
- An SQL query has a shape:
SELECT … FROM … WHERE …. Get the shape right first. - Match field and table names exactly to the ones in the question.
- Know why a primary key must be unique.
6. Extended / "explain" answers
Longer questions on impacts (ethical, legal, environmental), network or security design, where you explain or justify.
How to approach it
- Make a point, then develop it — say the effect or reason, don't just name it.
- For "discuss" style, give more than one side where the question invites it.
In our quiz, closed questions auto-mark; longer "explain" answers are best practised with the teaching notes and past-paper style examples.