How to Revise iGCSE Computer Science

Revise iGCSE Computer Science with practice on programming, data representation, hardware, and computational thinking.

Revision Strategy

Revising Computer Science requires a dual approach: learning theoretical concepts and practising practical problem-solving. For theory topics like data representation, networking, and systems architecture, use active recall with flashcards and practice questions. For programming and algorithms, the only effective revision is writing and tracing code.

Practise tracing through algorithms by hand. Exam questions frequently ask you to follow the execution of pseudocode or identify errors in programs. Being able to work through code step by step, tracking variable values in a trace table, is a skill that improves dramatically with practice and is worth a significant number of marks.

Understand the connections between topics. Computer Science is a subject where concepts build on each other — for example, understanding binary representation helps with data storage, compression, and networking. When revising, actively look for these connections and make sure you can explain how different areas of the subject relate to one another.

Study Tips for iGCSE Computer Science

✓ Practice writing algorithms in pseudocode regularly. iGCSE Computer Science papers require you to write and trace through algorithms without access to a computer.
✓ Master binary, hexadecimal and denary conversions until they are automatic. These appear in almost every exam paper and are straightforward marks once the method is secure.
✓ Build small programs to solve problems (sorting, searching, validation) as hands-on coding reinforces your understanding of programming concepts far more effectively than reading alone.
✓ Create a glossary of key terms and definitions. iGCSE Computer Science has a large technical vocabulary that you need to use precisely in exams.

Exam Tips for iGCSE Computer Science

✓ When writing pseudocode, use clear variable names and include comments. iGCSE examiners can only award marks if your logic is understandable from what you have written.
✓ In trace table questions, work through each line of code systematically and record every variable change. Rushing through these leads to avoidable errors.
✓ For theory questions about networking or security, give specific technical answers rather than general descriptions. Name protocols, describe processes and explain mechanisms.

Topics to Cover

8 topics in iGCSE Computer Science

Data Representation

Communication & Networking

Hardware

Software

Security

Algorithms

Programming

Databases

Available Exam Boards

iGCSE Computer Science specification guides for each exam board

Cambridge International Edexcel International

Frequently Asked Questions

What programming language is used in iGCSE Computer Science? +

Cambridge iGCSE Computer Science uses pseudocode in the exam papers, so you do not need to master a specific language for the written exam. However, for the practical programming component, schools typically use Python, Java or Visual Basic. Check your school for their chosen language.

Is iGCSE Computer Science hard? +

The subject requires logical and mathematical thinking, and students who enjoy problem-solving tend to do well. The theory content (data representation, networking, hardware) requires careful revision, and the programming component demands regular practice.

Do I need prior coding experience for iGCSE Computer Science? +

No prior experience is assumed. The course teaches programming from the basics. However, students who have done some coding before starting the course often find the early stages more manageable.

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