This exam tips covers Exam Tips - The CPU within CPU Architecture for GCSE Computer Science. Revise CPU Architecture in 3.4 Computer Systems for GCSE Computer Science with 16 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 7 of 8 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Exam Tips - The CPU
When asked "Describe the CPU" always mention ALL THREE parts:
- Control Unit - fetches, decodes, sends control signals
- ALU - arithmetic AND logic operations
- Registers - fast temporary storage inside CPU
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Saying "ALU does calculations" - say "arithmetic AND logic operations"
- Forgetting the Control Unit sends control signals
- Confusing buses - Address is WHERE, Data is WHAT
- Saying registers store data "permanently" - they're TEMPORARY
Practice questions for CPU Architecture
Which component of the CPU carries out arithmetic and logical operations?
Name three main components of the CPU and state the purpose of each.
Quick recall flashcards
What does CPU stand for?
Central Processing Unit
What does ALU stand for?
Arithmetic Logic Unit