A-Level

OCR A-Level Computer Science Revision

Adaptive practice aligned to the Oxford, Cambridge and RSA Examinations specification. 9 topics, exam-style questions, and instant AI feedback.

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About OCR A-Level Computer Science

OCR provides GCSE and A-Level qualifications with a strong academic heritage. Their specifications are developed in partnership with the University of Cambridge and are widely adopted across England.

A-Level Computer Science goes well beyond basic IT skills, requiring you to understand computational theory, programming, data structures, algorithms, and the principles underpinning how computers work. You will study topics such as object-oriented programming, sorting and searching algorithms, database theory, networking, Boolean logic, and the ethical implications of computing technology.

Topics in OCR A-Level Computer Science

1 Programming

2 Data Structures

3 Algorithms

4 Theory of Computation

5 Computer Architecture

6 Networking

7 Databases

8 Big Data

9 Functional Programming

Study Tips for OCR Computer Science

Code regularly outside of lessons — work through programming challenges on platforms like Project Euler, Codewars, or CodingBat to build fluency. Reading about code is no substitute for writing and debugging it yourself.

For data structures and algorithms, trace through examples by hand on paper. Drawing out how a binary tree insertion works or how a merge sort splits and recombines a list solidifies your understanding far better than just reading pseudocode.

Create clear revision notes on computational theory topics (Turing machines, regular expressions, Big O notation) with worked examples. These abstract concepts are often poorly understood and heavily examined.

Start your programming project early and keep a development log as you go. Document your design decisions, testing, and iterations — this evidences the systematic development process that examiners want to see.