COMPUTER-SCIENCE · Pearson Edexcel IGCSE
Computer Science Exam Tips
Top-performing candidates don't just dive headfirst into writing code or answering recall questions; they start with a disciplined 5-minute scan. In Paper 1 (Principles of Computer Science), where calculators are strictly prohibited, you must spot computational questions early. L…
Source: Pearson Edexcel
Papers
2
Total marks
160
Time limit
5h
Grade scale
Additional note
Calculator policy
A scientific or graphical calculator is permitted. Graphical calculators must be in exam mode with all stored programs and data cleared before the exam; the calculator must not be able to retrieve stored text or formulae.
2
Papers
5
Strategies
7
Mistakes
- Top-performing candidates don't just dive headfirst into writing code or answering recall questions; they start with a disciplined 5-minute scan. In Paper 1 (Principles of Computer Science), where calculators are strictly prohibited, you must spot computational questions early. Look out for image file size estimations, binary conversions, and transmission calculations. Identifying these allows you to carefully write out your working spaces. Remember, examiners award marks for the correct mathematical expression even if you make an arithmetic slip. For instance, expressing a file size as 1920×1080×168×1024×1024 \frac{1920 \times 1080 \times 16}{8 \times 1024 \times 1024} 8×1024×10241920×1080×16 MiB secures full calculation marks, whereas wasting precious time attempting complex long division can lead to compounding mistakes.
Tips are paraphrased for study purposes from exam structure data and marking patterns. Always verify against your official syllabus and mark scheme.