💻 Coding and computer science

IGCSE and GCSE Computer Science: theory plus programming

These courses mix theory (binary, hardware, networks) with algorithms and programming. Students who write pseudocode and programs often score best.

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At a glance

Cambridge IGCSE and GCSE Computer Science

Syllabi, patterns and dates change. Check the official source below for the current notice.

Boards

Cambridge IGCSE, Pearson Edexcel, AQA and others offer Computer Science. Check which your school uses.

Papers

Usually a theory paper and a problem-solving and programming paper.

Languages

Pseudocode and a high-level language such as Python are common. Check your syllabus.

Syllabus

Each board publishes its own and revises it.

What it covers

Topics and skills

Data representation

Binary, hexadecimal, text, images and sound.

Hardware and software

Processors, memory and operating systems.

Networks and security

Protocols, the internet and threats.

Algorithms and flowcharts

Writing and tracing algorithms in pseudocode.

Programming

Variables, selection, iteration, arrays, subroutines and file handling.

Databases and logic

Simple databases and logic gates.

What earns marks

Clear algorithms and traces
Accurate theory answers
Working programs

Common mistakes

Memorising theory without examples
Not tracing algorithms
Ignoring the mark scheme's wording
Weak binary conversions

A plan

How to prepare, in four phases

01
Phase 1: Theory notes
Make a short set of notes per topic and quiz yourself.
02
Phase 2: Algorithms
Write and trace pseudocode daily.
03
Phase 3: Programming
Practise typical exam tasks in your language.
04
Phase 4: Past papers
Time yourself and use the mark scheme.

Free practice

Practise here, no sign-up

Binary, decimal & hex converter

Convert between binary, octal, decimal, hexadecimal and any base from 2 to 36, with grouped bits for easy reading.

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Games and practice

Also useful

Python classes

Official source: Cambridge International: IGCSE Computer Science. Check it for the current syllabus, pattern and dates. We do not promise marks, ranks or selection.

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Guides

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Maths, coding, AI & parents

Python practice exercises for beginners: 15 easy problems with answers

Fifteen easy Python practice exercises for beginners with answers: print, variables, loops, lists, functions and FizzBuzz. Try them free in the browser, with no installation.

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Live online course

IGCSE Computer Science: 36 live classes

12 weeks, 3 a week, from ₹367 a class in India (small group). See the week-by-week plan, the price for your country and how the demo class works.

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FAQ

IGCSE Computer Science: questions people ask

Which language should I use?

The one your syllabus allows, often Python. Check your board.

How do I revise theory?

Short notes, flashcards and past-paper questions.

Are binary conversions important?

Yes. They appear regularly and are easy marks with practice.

Can you help?

Yes. Share your syllabus and level and a teacher from our network is matched to you before anything is booked.

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