DATA PROCESSING – FINAL REVISION

NOTES
Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE)

Grade 12 – Based on WAEC Syllabus

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INFORMATION AGE
• Computing devices evolved from early tools like the abacus to modern digital computers.
• The number system (binary, decimal, hexadecimal) is essential for all computer operations.
• Generations of computers:
- 1st Gen (1940s-1950s): Vacuum tubes, slow, bulky
- 2nd Gen (1950s-1960s): Transistors, more reliable
- 3rd Gen (1960s-1970s): Integrated Circuits (ICs), more compact
- 4th Gen (1970s-Present): Microprocessors, fast and affordable
- 5th Gen (Present & Beyond): AI-based, advanced computing abilities

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. Differentiate between the third and fourth generation of computers.

2. State two characteristics of the first generation of computers.

2. DATA AND INFORMATION
• Data: Raw facts or figures (e.g., 45, 'John')

• Information: Processed data that is meaningful

• Types of data: Numeric, Alphanumeric, Boolean, etc.

• Ways of handling data: Manual, Electronic, Digitalization

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. State two differences between data and information.

2. List three ways of handling data.

3. BASIC COMPUTING
• Computer classification by:

• - Type: Analog (examples are-Slide Rules, Thermostats, Speedometers ), Digital( Personal Computers
(PCs), Smartphones, Servers), Hybrid(Medical Monitoring Systems, fuel pump dispenser, Industrial Control Systems )

• - Size: Micro, Mini, Mainframe, Supercomputers

• - Usage: General-purpose (Pc, smartphones), Special-purpose ( Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems, ssATMs

(Automated Teller Machines),Flight Simulators, Medical Imaging Devices )

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. Classify computers based on size.

2. What is the difference between digital and analog computers?

4. APPLICATION OF ICT IN EVERYDAY LIFE
• ICT is used in education, healthcare, communication, banking, etc.

• Impacts: Improved communication, learning, and data processing

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. Mention two uses of ICT in everyday activities.

2. Describe two positive impacts of ICT in the society.

5. COMPONENTS OF COMPUTERS
• Input Devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner

• Output Devices: Monitor, Printer, Speakers

• System Unit: Contains processor, RAM, motherboard

• Storage Devices: Hard drive, SSD, USB, CD/DVD

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. State two input and two output devices.

2. Differentiate between primary and secondary storage.

6. INFORMATION PROCESSING
• Definition: The act of converting data into useful information

• Steps: Collection, Input, Processing, Storage, Output, Distribution

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. List four steps involved in information processing.

2. What is information processing?

7. INFORMATION TRANSMISSION
• Definition: Sending/receiving information from one point to another

• Methods: Audio (radio), Visual (newspapers), Audio-Visual (TV, GSM)

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. Define information transmission.

2. Give two examples of audio-visual transmission.

8. NETWORKING
• Networking: Connecting multiple computers for sharing resources

• Types: LAN (Local), MAN (Metropolitan), WAN (Wide Area)

• Internet: Global network of interconnected devices

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. What is a computer network?

2. List three types of computer networks.

9. OPERATING SYSTEM
• OS: Software that manages hardware and applications

• Types: Single-user, Multi-user, GUI, CLI

• Functions: File management, Memory management, Device control

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. State two functions of an operating system.

2. List two types of operating systems.

10. WORD PROCESSING
• Definition: Creating and editing text-based documents

• Examples: Microsoft Word, Google Docs

• Shortcuts: Ctrl+B (Bold), Ctrl+S (Save), Ctrl+Z (Undo)

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. What is word processing?

2. Mention three uses of word processing.

11. SPREADSHEET
• Definition: Application for handling numeric data in tables

• Examples: Excel, Google Sheets

• Shortcuts: Ctrl+= (AutoSum), Ctrl+Arrow (Navigation), F2 (Edit cell)

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. Define spreadsheet.

2. List two uses of a spreadsheet.

12. DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
• Definition: Software used to manage and organize data

• Examples: Microsoft Access, MySQL

• Shortcuts (Access): Ctrl+N (New db), Ctrl+S (Save), F5 (Run form)

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. What is a database management system?

2. Give two examples of DBMS packages.

13. COMPUTER MAINTENANCE AND ETHICS
• Regular cleaning, software updates, virus scans

• Ethics: Use computers responsibly, follow lab rules

• Safety: Proper posture, lighting, no drinks near devices

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. Mention two maintenance practices for a computer system.

2. State two computer ethics every user must follow.

2. DATA AND INFORMATION
 • Data: Raw facts and figures.
 • Information: Processed data that is meaningful.
 • Types of Data: Text, numeric, audio, video, graphics.
 • Handling Data: Sorting, classification, tabulation, storage.
 • Digitalization: Conversion of analog info to digital form.

WASSCE-style Questions:

1. 1. Explain the difference between data and information.

2. 2. List four types of data.
3. BASIC COMPUTING
 • Computers can be classified by Type (Analog, Digital, Hybrid),
 Size (Micro, Mini, Mainframe, Super), and Usage (General-purpose, Special-purpose).

WASSCE-style Questions:

3. 1. Classify computers based on size with examples.

4. 2. Mention two differences between analog and digital computers.
4. APPLICATION OF ICT IN EVERYDAY LIFE
 • ICT is used in education, health, banking, communication, transport, etc.
 • Impact includes faster transactions, improved communication, e-learning.

WASSCE-style Questions:

5. 1. State three uses of ICT in everyday life.

6. 2. Explain two impacts of ICT on the society.
5. COMPONENTS OF COMPUTERS
 • Input Devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner.
 • Output Devices: Monitor, Printer, Speaker.
 • System Unit: CPU, motherboard, RAM.
 • Storage Devices: Hard disk, SSD, Flash drive.

WASSCE-style Questions:

7. 1. List two examples each of input and output devices.

8. 2. What are the main functions of the system unit?
6. INFORMATION PROCESSING
 • Definition: Sequence of actions to convert data into information.
 • Steps: Collection → Input → Processing → Storage → Output → Dissemination.

WASSCE-style Questions:

9. 1. Describe any three steps in information processing.

10. 2. Define information processing.
7. INFORMATION TRANSMISSION
 • Definition: Process of sending or receiving data.
 • Methods: Visual (newspapers), Audio (radio), Audio-Visual (TV, GSM).

WASSCE-style Questions:

11. 1. Mention three methods of information transmission.

12. 2. Define information transmission.
8. MEDIUM OF INFORMATION TRANSMISSION
 • Media: Newspapers, TV, Radio, Internet.
 • Classification: Wired (cables), Wireless (radio waves, satellite).

WASSCE-style Questions:

13. 1. Mention two types of transmission media.

14. 2. Differentiate between wired and wireless transmission.
9. NETWORKING
 • Networking: Linking computers to share data/resources.
 • Types: LAN (local), MAN (metropolitan), WAN (wide).
 • Internet and Intranet: Global vs Private network.

WASSCE-style Questions:

15. 1. What is the difference between LAN and WAN?

16. 2. Define networking.
10. INTERNET
 • Definition: Global network of interconnected computers.
 • Benefits: Email, research, e-commerce, communication.
 • Tools: Browsers (Chrome, Firefox).
 • Issues: Security, abuse (scams, addiction).

WASSCE-style Questions:

17. 1. List three benefits of the internet.

18. 2. Name two internet browsers.
11. TOOLS FOR PROCESSING INFORMATION
 • Operating System (OS): Manages hardware and software.
 • Types: Single-user, Multi-user, GUI (Windows), CLI (MS-DOS).
 • Functions: File management, memory handling, task scheduling.

WASSCE-style Questions:

19. 1. Mention two functions of an operating system.

20. 2. Differentiate between GUI and CLI.
12. WORD PROCESSING
 • Definition: Use of software to create text documents.
 • Examples: MS Word, Google Docs.
 • Keyboard Shortcuts:
- Ctrl + N: New document
- Ctrl + S: Save
- Ctrl + P: Print
- Ctrl + B/I/U: Bold/Italic/Underline

WASSCE-style Questions:

21. 1. Define word processing.

22. 2. List three functions of word processing software.
13. SPREADSHEET
 • Definition: Software for managing data in tabular form.
 • Examples: MS Excel, Google Sheets.
 • Uses: Budgeting, data analysis, calculations.
 • Shortcuts:
- Ctrl + N: New workbook
- Ctrl + S: Save
- Ctrl + P: Print
- Ctrl + C/X/V: Copy/Cut/Paste

WASSCE-style Questions:

23. 1. State two uses of spreadsheet applications.

24. 2. List two spreadsheet software.
14. DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (DBMS)
 • Definition: Software for managing data in databases.
 • Examples: MS Access, MySQL.
 • Uses: Storing and retrieving structured data.
 • Shortcuts (MS Access):
- Ctrl + N: New DB
- Ctrl + S: Save
- Ctrl + F: Find

WASSCE-style Questions:

25. 1. Define a database management system.

26. 2. List two examples of DBMS software.
15. PRESENTATION PACKAGE
 • Software used to create slideshows (e.g., MS PowerPoint).
 • Uses: Teaching, business pitches, meetings.
 • Shortcuts:
- F5: Start slideshow
- Ctrl + M: New slide
- Ctrl + S: Save

WASSCE-style Questions:

27. 1. List two uses of presentation software.

28. 2. Mention two examples of presentation software.
16. WEB DESIGN PACKAGES
 • Used to design web pages (e.g., Adobe Dreamweaver).
 • Components: Text editor, preview pane, HTML support.
 • No actual web coding required in syllabus.

WASSCE-style Questions:

29. 1. State two uses of web design packages.

30. 2. List two examples of web design software.
17. GRAPHIC PACKAGES
 • Software used for image creation/editing.
 • Examples: CorelDraw, Photoshop.
 • Uses: Logo creation, posters, banners.

WASSCE-style Questions:

31. 1. List two examples of graphic packages.

32. 2. What are two uses of graphic software?
18. COMPUTER MAINTENANCE
 • Cleaning: Regular dusting, lens cleaning.
 • Battery: Charge and replace UPS batteries.
 • Hardware/Software Maintenance: Updates, virus scans.
 • Data Recovery: Use of backup tools.

WASSCE-style Questions:

33. 1. List two software maintenance practices.

34. 2. Mention two ways to recover lost data.
19. COMPUTER ETHICS
 • Responsible use of ICT equipment.
 • Laboratory rules: No food/drinks, proper ventilation.

WASSCE-style Questions:

35. 1. Mention two rules of computer lab use.

36. 2. What is computer ethics?
20. SAFETY MEASURES
 • Arrangement: Ergonomic furniture, monitor at eye level.
 • Lighting: Proper illumination, avoid screen glare.
 • Environment: Dust-free, no liquids near hardware.

WASSCE-style Questions:

37. 1. List two safety precautions in a computer room.

38. 2. How should a monitor be positioned?
21. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
 • Professions: Programmer, Network Admin, Data Analyst.
 • Qualities: Integrity, accuracy, curiosity.
 • Bodies: NCS (Nigeria), IEEE.

WASSCE-style Questions:

39. 1. Mention two careers in data processing.

40. 2. List two qualities of a data professional.
22. COMPUTER VIRUS
 • Definition: Malicious software that disrupts systems.
 • Examples: Trojan, Worm, Ransomware.
 • Sources: Infected drives, internet.
 • Symptoms: Slowness, file loss.
 • Prevention: Antivirus, updates.

WASSCE-style Questions:

41. 1. List two types of computer virus.

42. 2. Mention two signs of virus infection.
23. DATA MANAGEMENT (RELATIONAL MODEL)
 • Use of tables to manage data.
 • Concepts: Primary/Foreign keys, Entities, Attributes.
 • Forms, Queries, Reports in DBMS.
 • SQL basics (limited to software GUI).

WASSCE-style Questions:

43. 1. What is a primary key in database?

44. 2. Mention two components of a relational database.
24. FILE ORGANIZATION
 • Definition: How records are arranged on storage.
 • Types: Sequential, Indexed Sequential, Random.
 • Comparison of types.

WASSCE-style Questions:

45. 1. Define file organization.

46. 2. List three types of file organization.
25. DATABASE SECURITY
 • Concepts: Data security, access control, encryption.
 • Role of Database Admin (DBA): Backup, monitoring.

WASSCE-style Questions:

47. 1. List two ways of securing a database.

48. 2. What is the role of a DBA?
26. PARALLEL AND DISTRIBUTED DATABASES
 • Parallel DB: Tasks processed simultaneously.
 • Distributed DB: Data stored across multiple locations.
 • Benefits: Speed, reliability, scalability.

WASSCE-style Questions:

49. 1. Define distributed database.

50. 2. State one advantage of parallel database systems.

This document provides essential keyboard shortcuts, including function key uses, for
Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, and CorelDraw. Mastering these shortcuts will
significantly improve your efficiency.

1. Microsoft Word

 Ctrl + N: Create a new document.

 Ctrl + S: Save the current document.
 Ctrl + O: Open an existing document.
 Ctrl + C: Copy selected text or objects.
 Ctrl + V: Paste copied text or objects.
 Ctrl + X: Cut selected text or objects.
 Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action.
 Ctrl + Y: Redo the last undone action.
 Ctrl + B: Bold selected text.
 Ctrl + I: Italicize selected text.
 F1: Open Word Help.
 F4: Repeat the last action.
 F7: Check spelling and grammar.
 F12: Save As.

2. Microsoft PowerPoint

 Ctrl + N: Create a new presentation.

 Ctrl + S: Save the current presentation.
 Ctrl + O: Open an existing presentation.
 Ctrl + C: Copy selected objects.
 Ctrl + V: Paste copied objects.
 Ctrl + X: Cut selected objects.
 Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action.
 Ctrl + Y: Redo the last undone action.
 Ctrl + D: Duplicate the selected slide or object.
 F5: Begin the slideshow from the beginning.
 Shift + F5: Begin the slideshow from the current slide.
 F1: Open PowerPoint Help.
3. Microsoft Excel

 Ctrl + N: Create a new workbook.

 Ctrl + S: Save the current workbook.
 Ctrl + O: Open an existing workbook.
 Ctrl + C: Copy selected cells.
 Ctrl + V: Paste copied cells.
 Ctrl + X: Cut selected cells.
 Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action.
 Ctrl + Y: Redo the last undone action.
 Ctrl + B: Bold selected cells' content.
 Ctrl + 1: Format cells dialog box.
 F2: Edit the selected cell.
 F4: Repeat the last action.
 F1: Open Excel Help.
 F11: Create a chart from selected data.

4. Microsoft Access

 Ctrl + N: Create a new database object.

 Ctrl + S: Save the current object.
 Ctrl + O: Open an existing database.
 Ctrl + C: Copy selected data.
 Ctrl + V: Paste copied data.
 Ctrl + X: Cut selected data.
 Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action.
 Ctrl + Y: Redo the last undone action.
 Ctrl + F: Find data within a table or form.
 F11: Show or hide the Navigation Pane.
 F1: Open Access Help.

5. CorelDraw

 Ctrl + N: Create a new document.

 Ctrl + S: Save the current document.
 Ctrl + O: Open an existing document.
 Ctrl + C: Copy selected objects.
 Ctrl + V: Paste copied objects.
 Ctrl + X: Cut selected objects.
 Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action.
 Ctrl + Y: Redo the last undone action.
 Ctrl + G: Group selected objects.
 Ctrl + U: Ungroup selected objects.
 F4: Zoom to all objects.
 F7: Rectangle tool.
 F8: Text tool.
 F12: Outline Pen dialog box.