Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle: GCSE Computer Science Definition

What is the fetch-decode-execute cycle?

In GCSE Computer Science, the fetch-decode-execute (FDE) cycle, also known as the fetch-execute cycle, is defined as the cycle that the central processing unit (CPU) runs through billions of times per second to make a computer work.

The four main steps of the fetch-decode-execute cycle are:

• An instruction or data is fetched from memory

• The instruction is decoded 

• The instruction is executed

• The cycle repeats billions of times per second

Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Explore the fetch-decode-execute cycle in more detail to understand the origin of instructions and explore the various types of instructions the CPU is likely to process during execution in our revision note pages here:

The purpose of the CPU (OCR GCSE Computer Science)
Fetch-execute cycle (AQA GCSE Computer Science)
CPU components & their function (Edexcel GCSE Computer Science)

Challenge yourself with our expertly created topic questions and reinforce your learning with our interactive flashcards. 

GCSE Computer Science Revision Resources