IGCSE Computer Science Topics by Exam Board: Full List

As a student studying IGCSE Computer Science, schools choose between two main exam boards to deliver the qualification: CIE and Edexcel.

But how are they different? This article will show you which topics each exam board covers and how they are grouped in assessment. By the end, you’ll know exactly what topics to revise for your exam. Plus, there are links to helpful revision resources to support you.

CIE IGCSE Computer Science Topics

1. Data representation

This topic introduces you to how computers use binary to represent data. You’ll learn about number systems, including binary, denary, and hexadecimal, and how to convert between them. This section also covers binary arithmetic, logical shifts, and using two’s complement to represent negative numbers. 

You’ll also explore how text, sound, and images are represented and how compression reduces file sizes without losing essential information.

Topics include:

• Binary, denary, and hexadecimal number systems

• Binary arithmetic and logical shifts

• Representing text, sound, and images

• Lossy and lossless compression
  
  

2. Data transmission

This section covers how data is transmitted between devices. You’ll learn about packet switching, different methods of data transmission, and error detection techniques. The importance of encryption in keeping data secure during transmission is also explored. 

You’ll gain an understanding of how Universal Serial Bus (USB) works and how different data transmission methods are suited to different scenarios.

Topics include:

• Packet switching and data transmission methods

• Error detection methods

• Encryption: symmetric and asymmetric

• The role of USB in data transmission
  
  

3. Hardware

This topic focuses on the components that make up a computer system. You’ll explore the CPU’s role, including the fetch-decode-execute cycle, and understand the purpose of cores, cache, and clock speeds. The section also introduces you to input and output devices, data storage, and virtual and cloud storage. 

You’ll also learn about embedded systems and their applications in real-world devices like home appliances and vehicles.

Topics include:

• The role and architecture of the CPU

• Fetch-decode-execute cycle

• Input and output devices

• Primary, secondary, and cloud storage
  
  

4. Software

This topic delves into system software, application software, and how they interact with hardware. You’ll learn about operating systems, interrupts, and how they manage tasks like memory and file handling. The section also introduces programming languages, translators, and the role of integrated development environments (IDEs). 

You’ll understand how software ensures the smooth operation of your devices and applications.

Topics include:

• System and application software

• The role of operating systems

• Programming languages and translators

• Features of IDEs
  
  

5. The Internet and its uses

This topic explains the structure and function of the Internet and the World Wide Web (WWW). You’ll learn about URLs, HTTP/HTTPS protocols, and how web pages are retrieved and displayed. 

The section also explores the role of cookies, digital currencies like Bitcoin, and blockchain technology. 

You’ll also learn about cyber security threats and how to protect systems from vulnerabilities.

Topics include:

• The Internet vs. the World Wide Web

• Uniform Resource Locators (URLs)

• Cookies and their uses

• Blockchain and digital currencies

• Types of cyber threats

• Security measures like firewalls and encryption

• Authentication methods (e.g., biometrics, two-step verification)
  
  

6. Automated and emerging technologies

This topic introduces you to automated systems, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI). You’ll learn how sensors, microprocessors, and actuators work together in automation and explore the roles robots and AI play in industries like transport, agriculture, and healthcare. 

By studying these technologies, you’ll understand their impact on society and future advancements.

Topics include:

• Automated systems and their applications

• Robotics: characteristics and uses

• Artificial intelligence and its components
  
  

7. Algorithm design and problem-solving

This topic focuses on breaking down complex problems into manageable parts. You’ll learn about algorithms, validation checks, and testing methods to ensure programs work as expected. Using pseudocode and flowcharts, you’ll design and test solutions for various scenarios. 

These skills are essential for solving real-world problems and writing efficient code.

Topics include:

• Program development life cycle

• Standard methods of solution

• Validation and verification checks

• Writing and testing algorithms
  
  

8. Programming

This topic is all about writing and managing code. You’ll learn programming concepts like variables, data types, and control structures. Advanced topics include using functions, procedures, and library routines to create maintainable and efficient programs. 

By practising programming, you’ll develop problem-solving skills and confidence in coding.

Topics include:

• Variables, data types, and control structures

• Functions, procedures, and parameters

• String handling and nested statements

• Writing maintainable programs
  
  

9. Databases

This topic introduces you to databases and SQL. You’ll learn how to define single-table databases, select appropriate data types, and use SQL commands to query and manage data effectively. 

These skills will prepare you for working with data in real-world applications.

Topics include:

• Defining single-table databases

• Choosing basic data types

• Writing and running SQL queries
  
  

10. Boolean logic

This topic explores logic gates and their applications in computer decision-making. You’ll learn to create and interpret logic circuits, truth tables, and logic expressions, gaining insights into how computers process decisions. 

Understanding Boolean logic is key to solving complex problems in computing.

Topics include:

• Logic gates and their functions

• Truth tables and logic circuits

• Writing and interpreting logic expressions

What is Covered in CIE IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1&2?

Revision Resources for CIE IGCSE Computer Science

For high-quality revision resources for the CIE IGCSE Computer Science exam, explore our CIE Computer Science revision resources.

Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science Topics

1. Problem solving

This topic explores the fundamentals of problem-solving in computer science, focusing on designing algorithms and using computational thinking techniques like decomposition and abstraction. You will learn to create, interpret, and evaluate algorithms while breaking down complex problems into manageable parts.

Topics include:

• Understanding and creating algorithms

• Programming constructs: sequence, selection, iteration

• Debugging and correcting errors in algorithms

• Standard algorithms such as bubble sort, merge sort, linear search, and binary search

• Decomposing problems into smaller sub-problems

• Using abstraction to model real-world systems
  
  

2. Programming

Programming is a core skill in computer science. In this section, you’ll develop your coding skills and learn how to write, debug, and refine high-quality programs in languages like Python, C#, or Java.

Topics include:

• Writing readable and maintainable programs

• Debugging and error types: logic, syntax, runtime

• Programming constructs: sequencing, selection, iteration

• Data types, structures, and subprograms
  
  

3. Data

Learn how computers use binary to represent data, including numbers, text, images, and sound. You’ll also explore how data is stored, compressed, and secured.

Topics include:

• Binary and hexadecimal systems

• Representing text, images, and sound in binary

• Data compression methods: lossy and lossless

• Encryption algorithms such as Caesar cipher and Vigenère cipher
  
  

4. Computers

This section covers the components of computer systems and how they work together to process and store data. You’ll also learn about logic gates and how computers use them for decision-making.

Topics include:

• Components of a computer system: CPU, memory, storage, and input/output devices

• The fetch-decode-execute cycle and the Von Neumann model

• Logic gates and truth tables

• Operating systems and utility software
  
  

5. Communication and the Internet

Understand how networks function, the structure of the internet, and the importance of network security. This section explores how computers communicate and how data is transmitted securely.

Topics include:

• Network types: LAN, WAN, PAN

• Network protocols: TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS

• Cybersecurity threats and protection methods

• The Internet and the World Wide Web
  
  

6. The bigger picture

Discover the broader impact of computing on society. You’ll learn about emerging technologies, ethical considerations, and how technology shapes the future.

Topics include:

• Environmental and ethical impacts of technology

• Legal issues, including intellectual property and cybersecurity

• Trends in computing: quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology

What is Covered in Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1&2?

Revision Resources for Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science

For high-quality revision resources for the Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science exam, explore our Edexcel Computer Science revision resources. 

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References

CIE IGCSE Computer Science Specification

Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science Specification