Pearson Edexcel · IGCSE · 4CP0
Computer Science — Keywords & Key Terms — Definitions Glossary (2026)
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Computer Science (4CP0)
Topic-by-topic keywords, key terms and definitions for precise exam language—separate from our revision checklists (topic coverage) and formula sheets (equations).
Keywords & Key Terms — definitions
Examiner-style keywords and definitions organised by syllabus topic. Terms are tagged Essential (start here), Core (typical exam standard), and Advanced for harder distinctions — tick each row when you can recall it. Your progress is saved in this browser for this list.
Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science (4CP0)
Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science (4CP0)
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Computer Science (4CP0)
Aligned to Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Computer Science (4CP0) for 2026: problem solving, programming, data, computers, communication, and bigger-picture issues — Higher tier assumes broader command of technical vocabulary.
Mark schemes: Pearson rewards correct technical terms (e.g. TCP/IP roles, normalisation ideas). Programming tasks: meaningful variable names, indentation, testing with normal and boundary data. Refer to the specification’s prescribed practical / programming expectations for your series.
Active recall: 0 / 20 terms ticked
| Recalled | Topic | Level | Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computational thinking & programming | Essential | Algorithm | Step-by-step procedure to solve a problem. | |
| Computational thinking & programming | Core | Decomposition | Break a complex problem into sub-problems. | |
| Computational thinking & programming | Core | Abstraction | Hide unnecessary detail; focus on essentials. | |
| Computational thinking & programming | Core | Pseudocode | Structured English-like notation. | |
| Computational thinking & programming | Core | Selection / iteration | IF…ELSE; FOR, WHILE loops. | |
| Computational thinking & programming | Core | Array / list | Indexed collection of items. | |
| Computational thinking & programming | Advanced | Procedures & functions | Reusable blocks; parameters and return values. | |
| Data & systems | Core | Data type | Integer, real, Boolean, string, char. | |
| Data & systems | Core | File handling | Open, read, write, close — persistent storage. | |
| Data & systems | Core | Database table / record / field | Structured storage; primary key. | |
| Data & systems | Core | SQL basics | SELECT, FROM, WHERE — query language. | |
| Data & systems | Core | Network protocols | Rules for communication — e.g. HTTP, TCP/IP stack layers overview. | |
| Data & systems | Core | LAN / WLAN | Wired vs wireless local networks. | |
| Data & systems | Advanced | Cyber-security | Malware, firewall, encryption, strong passwords. | |
| Hardware & software | Core | CPU components | ALU, CU, registers, cache — roles. | |
| Hardware & software | Core | Storage hierarchy | Registers → cache → RAM → SSD/HDD — speed vs capacity. | |
| Hardware & software | Core | Operating system | Memory, process, file and peripheral management. | |
| Hardware & software | Core | Utility software | Defragmentation, backup, compression. | |
| Hardware & software | Core | High-level language | Human-readable; needs translation to machine code. | |
| Hardware & software | Advanced | Cloud computing | On-demand services over internet — benefits and risks. |
Pair this with our revision checklists, formula sheets hub and past paper finder.
Computer Science (4CP0) — Keywords & Key Terms FAQ
- What is on this Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Computer Science keywords and key terms list?
- It is a topic-organised glossary of important computer science terms with short, exam-style definitions aligned to Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Computer Science (4CP0) (4CP0). It is designed for “define”, “state”, “outline” and “explain” questions where precise vocabulary earns marks.
- How should I use this Computer Science glossary alongside past papers?
- Tick terms when you can recall them without reading the answer, then check your wording against mark schemes. Pair vocabulary practice with past papers for IGCSE Computer Science (4CP0) so you apply terms in context.
- Is this the same as a revision checklist or a formula sheet?
- No. Revision checklists help you track which syllabus topics you have covered and your confidence—separate pages on Tutopiya. Formula sheets summarise equations and quantitative relationships. This page is only a definitions and key-terms glossary for Computer Science.
- Can I download this Computer Science keywords and key terms list for free?
- Yes. After a quick free sign-up you can download a UTF-8 CSV (opens in Excel or Google Sheets) or open a print-friendly page and save as PDF. Browsing the list on the page is free.
- Is this Computer Science list aligned to the 4CP0 specification?
- Topic groupings and wording follow Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Computer Science (4CP0) for Pearson Edexcel IGCSE. Always confirm final learning objectives and any regional options in your official specification and recent examiner reports for your exam session.
- Why focus on definitions instead of full notes?
- Mark schemes reward correct technical terms and clear links between ideas. A compact glossary lets you drill the exact language examiners expect for Computer Science at IGCSE, separate from longer notes or topic trackers.