IGCSE 2026 Exam Trends: Edexcel ICT 4IT0

Edexcel IGCSE ICT (4IT0) is assessed with Paper 1 (theory) and Paper 2 (practical – documents, spreadsheets, databases, etc.). Check the current spec for exact component codes. Here are recent trends for 2026.

Paper format and structure

• 4IT0 – Paper 1 (theory: types of ICT, hardware, software, networks, safety, impact) and Paper 2 (practical tasks); structure unchanged for 2025–2026.
• Practical tasks are task-based: follow instructions precisely; format, content, and accuracy are all credited. File format and naming as specified can be mark-bearing.
• Theory includes definitions, explanations, and applications with correct ICT terminology.

Question types and topics that keep coming up

• Practical: Word – layout, styles, mail merge, tables, images. Spreadsheet – formulae, functions (SUM, IF, VLOOKUP), charts, formatting. Database – queries, forms, reports; validation; relationships. Presentation – design, animation. Web – structure, links. Accuracy (e.g. correct formula) and following the brief (font, size, layout) are essential.
• Theory: Types of system (batch, real-time); hardware (sensors, storage); software (OS, applications); networks (protocols, topologies, security); safety (ergonomics, backup); impact (employment, privacy). Definitions and explanations with correct terms are required.

Are papers getting easier or harder?

• Standards are maintained via grade boundaries. Reports cite not following practical instructions (wrong file type/name), spreadsheet formula errors, and theory answers that are vague or incorrect (e.g. confusing hardware/software).
• No reported shift in difficulty; accuracy in practicals and precision in theory are key.

Similarity to past papers and predictability

• Format and task types match past Edexcel series. Past papers and specimen tasks are a good guide to practical style and theory topics.
• Software may vary by centre; skills (formatting, formulae, queries) are consistent. Theory topics are predictable from the spec. Exact tasks are not predictable; marking focus (correct output, format, terminology) is.

Examiner expectations and marking

• Practical: Exact match to brief (e.g. font, formula); partial credit for correct method. File format and naming as specified.
• Theory: Correct terms (e.g. “RAM”, “protocol”, “encryption”); explanation where asked. Vague answers score partial or no credit. Marking consistent with past series.

Assessment style and skills in demand

• Following instructions – read the task and specification carefully. Accuracy – formulae, queries, formatting; check before submitting. Theory – definitions and applications with correct terminology.

Focus areas for 2026 revision

1. Practical – practise full tasks under timed conditions; save and name files correctly; check formulae and queries.
2. Spreadsheet – SUM, IF, VLOOKUP, charts; absolute/relative reference; format.
3. Database – queries (criteria, wildcards); validation; forms and reports.
4. Theory – hardware, software, networks, safety, impact; definitions and examples.
5. Instructions – read every requirement; tick off as you complete.

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Based on current specification and examiner reports. Always use the latest Edexcel 4IT0 specification for your series.