Always mention BOTH arithmetic AND logic:
- When asked "What does the ALU do?" → "Performs arithmetic AND logic operations"
- Don't just say "does calculations" - you'll lose marks!
- It's called Arithmetic Logic Unit - both words matter
Give specific examples:
- Arithmetic: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division
- Logic: AND, OR, NOT operations
- Comparisons: equals, greater than, less than
Remember where results go:
- ALU results are stored in the Accumulator (ACC)
- This happens during the EXECUTE stage
- The result overwrites the previous ACC value
This exam tips covers Exam Tips - The ALU within Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) in 3.4 Computer Systems for GCSE Computer Science with 15 exam-style questions and 12 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 6 of 7 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Practice questions for Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
What does ALU stand for?
Explain how the role of the ALU differs from the role of the Control Unit (CU).
Quick recall flashcards
Where are ALU results stored?
Accumulator (ACC)
What does ALU stand for?
Arithmetic Logic Unit