Computer Programming MCQ Quiz

Reviewed by Godwin Iheuwa
Godwin Iheuwa, MS (Computer Science) |
Database Administrator
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Godwin Iheuwa, a Database Administrator at MTN Nigeria, holds an MS in Computer Science, specializing in Agile Methodologies and Database Administration from the University of Bedfordshire and a Bachelor's in Computer Science from the University of Port Harcourt. His proficiency in SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) and SQL Server Management Studio contributes to his expertise in database management.
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  • 1/30 Questions

    What does the term “IDE” stand for in programming?

    • Integrated Development Environment
    • Intelligent Debugging Engine
    • Internet Development Editor
    • Interactive Design Engine
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About This Quiz

The Computer Programming MCQ quiz is designed to test and expand your understanding of key programming concepts. If you are a beginner learning the basics or an experienced coder brushing up on knowledge, this quiz provides a structured approach to assess your skills. Covering topics such as algorithms, data structures, syntax, and debugging, each question is crafted to challenge your logical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

These computer programming exam questions and answers focus on essential programming languages, principles of software development, and industry practices. They are perfect for students preparing for exams, professionals aiming to refresh their knowledge, or anyone curious about the world of coding. As you progress, the quiz offers a balanced mix of theoretical and practical questions, helping you identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Computer Programming MCQ Quiz - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    What does the 'continue' statement do in a loop?

    • Terminates the loop

    • Skips the current iteration and proceeds to the next one

    • Pauses the loop execution

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Skips the current iteration and proceeds to the next one
    Explanation
    The 'continue' statement interrupts the current loop iteration and immediately proceeds to the next iteration. This command is useful for skipping certain conditions within a loop without exiting the loop completely.

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  • 3. 

    A loop that never ends is referred to as a(n)_________.

    • While loop

    • Infinite loop

    • Recursive loop

    • ) for loop

    Correct Answer
    A. Infinite loop
    Explanation
    An infinite loop refers to a loop that continues indefinitely without ever terminating. This can occur when the loop condition is always true or when there is no exit condition specified within the loop. As a result, the loop keeps repeating its code block endlessly until it is manually interrupted or the program is terminated.

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  • 4. 

    _______ is the process of finding errors and fixing them within a program.

    • Compiling

    • Executing

    • Debugging

    • Scanning

    Correct Answer
    A. Debugging
    Explanation
    Debugging is the process of finding errors and fixing them within a program. It involves identifying and resolving issues such as logical errors, syntax errors, or runtime errors that prevent the program from working correctly. This process often requires the use of debugging tools and techniques, such as setting breakpoints, stepping through code, and analyzing variables, in order to locate and rectify the errors.

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  • 5. 

    Which language is primarily used for web development?

    • C++

    • Java

    • JavaScript

    • Python

    Correct Answer
    A. JavaScript
    Explanation
    JavaScript is a core technology for web development, enabling dynamic, interactive web content. Unlike C++ and Java, which are general-purpose languages, JavaScript works directly in browsers without additional setup, making it essential for modern websites. It allows developers to create features like animations, dropdown menus, and real-time updates. When combined with HTML and CSS, JavaScript forms the foundation of front-end development. Its extensive library support, frameworks like React and Angular, and compatibility across all browsers make it the top choice for web developers. Python, while versatile, is less commonly used for direct web interaction.

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  • 6. 

    In object-oriented programming, what does the concept of inheritance allow you to do?

    • Create a class based on another class

    • Combine multiple classes into one

    • Encrypt data within a class

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Create a class based on another class
    Explanation
    Inheritance in object-oriented programming allows one class to inherit properties and methods from another class. This parent class is known as a superclass, and the inheriting class is called a subclass or derived class. Inheritance promotes code reusability and establishes a natural hierarchy among classes.

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  • 7. 

    Which of these is not an access modifier in Java?

    • Protected

    • Public

    • Private

    • Package

    Correct Answer
    A. Package
    Explanation
    In Java, the recognized access modifiers are protected, public, and private. These modifiers control the visibility of classes, methods, and variables to other classes.
    The term package is not an access modifier. However, it is commonly associated with package-private access, which is the default access level (no modifier) in Java, allowing access to classes, methods, and fields within the same package. The correct term for this access level is default access, not "package."

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  • 8. 

    Which of the following is not a feature of functional programming?

    • Immutability

    • First-class functions

    • Side effects

    • Recursion

    Correct Answer
    A. Side effects
    Explanation
    Functional programming emphasizes immutability, first-class functions, and recursion while avoiding side effects. Side effects refer to external changes made by a function, such as modifying global variables or file contents. These disrupt predictability and go against functional programming's principle of pure functions. A pure function always returns the same result for the same input without altering external states. By eliminating side effects, functional programming ensures simplicity, consistency, and scalability in applications.

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  • 9. 

    Which design pattern ensures a class has only one instance and provides a global point of access to it?

    • Factory Pattern

    • Singleton Pattern

    • Observer Pattern

    • Decorator Pattern

    Correct Answer
    A. Singleton Pattern
    Explanation
    The Singleton Pattern ensures that a class has only one instance and provides a global point of access to it. This design pattern is widely used in scenarios like logging, configuration management, and resource management, where maintaining a single, consistent object instance across the entire application is critical. By restricting instantiation and controlling access through a static method, the Singleton Pattern prevents duplication and ensures centralized management of resources.

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  • 10. 

    What is the default scope of a variable declared inside a function in C?

    • Global

    • Local

    • Static

    • Extern

    Correct Answer
    A. Local
    Explanation
    Variables declared inside a function have local scope, meaning they are accessible only within that function. They are created when the function is called and destroyed upon its termination. This ensures efficient memory usage and encapsulation, preventing unintended interactions with variables outside the function. For example, declaring int x = 10; inside a function ensures x is confined to that function. This scoping mechanism is essential for modular and reliable programming in C.

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  • 11. 

    Jim currently runs a car rental dealership and wishes to write a program that allows the user to enter the temperature of the location they plan to visit and then recommend a car based on the data.  Below is a summary of the program structure Jim is looking for.         Temp greater than 80 a Convertible should be selected.         Temp  greater than 60 and less than 80 an SUV should be selected         Temp less than 60 a truck should be selected.   Jim has no trouble writing the code if the temperate is greater than 80 but gets stuck when he arrives at the second line of code which reads Temp greater than 60 and less than 80 an SUV should be selected.  What type of operator is Jim needing to use within his code?

    • &&

    • | |

    • !=

    • ==

    Correct Answer
    A. &&
    Explanation
    The logical AND operator (&&) is used to combine multiple conditions, ensuring that both are true before executing a block of code. In this scenario, the condition "greater than 60 and less than 80" requires both subconditions to be true. The && operator allows checking both conditions simultaneously, making it the correct choice for selecting an SUV based on the specified temperature range.

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  • 12. 

    Sal needs to execute a section of code ten times within a program. Compare the selection structures below and select which one meets the needs identified.

    • If-Else

    • For

    • While

    • If

    Correct Answer
    A. For
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "For" because the "For" loop is specifically designed to execute a section of code a certain number of times. In this case, Sal needs to execute the code ten times, and the "For" loop allows for easily specifying the number of iterations. The other selection structures, such as "If-Else", "While", and "If", do not have a built-in mechanism for repeating a section of code multiple times.

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  • 13. 

    Of the following, if statements, which one correctly executes three instructions if the condition is true?

    • If (x < 0) a = b * 2; y = x; z = a – y;

    • { if (x < 0) a = b * 2; y = x; z = a – y; }

    • If{ (x < 0) a = b * 2; y = x; z = a – y ; }

    • If (x < 0) { a = b * 2; y = x; z = a – y; }

    Correct Answer
    A. If (x < 0) { a = b * 2; y = x; z = a – y; }
    Explanation
    The correct syntax of an "if" statement requires the condition to be enclosed in parentheses and the associated instructions enclosed in curly braces. The option if (x < 0) { a = b * 2; y = x; z = a - y; } ensures all three instructions are executed as part of the same block if the condition is true. The other options either lack proper syntax or fail to group the instructions correctly.

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  • 14. 

    What is the primary purpose of the 'super' keyword in Java?

    • To call methods of the parent class

    • To declare static methods

    • To override methods in the subclass

    • To increase the visibility of methods

    Correct Answer
    A. To call methods of the parent class
    Explanation
    The 'super' keyword in Java is primarily used to call methods and constructors of a parent class from within a subclass. This feature is useful in overridden methods where the subclass method needs to leverage or augment the parent class's implementation.

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  • 15. 

    During program development, what do software requirements specify?

    • How the program will accomplish the task

    • What the task is that the program must perform

    • How to divide the task into subtasks

    • How to test the program when it is done

    Correct Answer
    A. What the task is that the program must perform
    Explanation
    Software requirements specify what the task is that the program must perform. This means that the requirements outline the specific functionalities and objectives that the program needs to achieve. They define the desired behavior and outcomes of the program, serving as a guide for the development process. By clearly stating what the program must accomplish, the requirements help ensure that the final product meets the needs and expectations of the stakeholders.

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  • 16. 

    Jay is considering adding a repetition statement within his Java programming final project. Jay is unsure of the number of times each loop needs to execute.  Analyze the conditional statements below and select which statement best fits the need identified by Jay within his programming.

    • While loop

    • If-Else

    • For loop

    • Switch statement

    Correct Answer
    A. While loop
    Explanation
    Jay is considering adding a repetition statement within his Java programming final project. He is unsure of the number of times each loop needs to execute. The while loop is the best fit for this need because it allows him to repeatedly execute a block of code as long as a certain condition is true. This means that Jay can use the while loop to execute the loop until he is satisfied with the number of times it has been executed, without needing to know the exact number beforehand.

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  • 17. 

    In object-oriented programming, what is a "virtual function"?

    • A function with no return type

    • A placeholder function 

    • A function that can be overridden 

    • A function for debugging

    Correct Answer
    A. A function that can be overridden 
    Explanation
    A virtual function in object-oriented programming allows derived classes to override the base class's behavior. Declared with the virtual keyword, these functions enable polymorphism, meaning a function can act differently based on the object type. For example, a base class Shape might have a virtual function draw() that is implemented differently in derived classes like Circle or Rectangle. At runtime, the correct implementation is called depending on the object type. This feature supports flexibility, dynamic behavior, and code reuse.

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  • 18. 

    Which command will stop an infinite loop?

    • Alt - C

    • Shift - C

    • Esc

    • Ctrl - C

    Correct Answer
    A. Ctrl - C
    Explanation
    Ctrl - C is the correct answer because it is a commonly used keyboard shortcut to interrupt or terminate a process in many operating systems and programming languages. When an infinite loop is running, pressing Ctrl - C sends a signal to the system to stop the execution of the loop and exit the program. This allows the user to regain control and prevent the program from running indefinitely.

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  • 19. 

    Analyze the two “if statements” below and select which answer best summarizes each line of code.         string name1, name2; int guess, answer;   if (name1.equals(name2))         if (guess == answer)

    • The first if statement will compare the numerical value of the two names entered to see if they are equal and the second if statement will also compare the numerical values to see if they are equal

    • The first if statement will not work correctly due to string values being used, the second if statement will correctly compare the variables guess and answer

    • The first if statement will compare the two string values to see if they are equal and the second will compare the two integer values to see if they are equal.

    • The first if statement should read if (name1 == name2) in order to properly compare the values and the second if statement will compare the numerical values to see if they are equal.

    Correct Answer
    A. The first if statement will compare the two string values to see if they are equal and the second will compare the two integer values to see if they are equal.
    Explanation
    The code provided involves two separate if statements that perform different types of comparisons. The first if statement uses the "equals" method, which is typically used in programming languages like Java to compare two string objects for content equality. This means it checks if the actual data within the strings "name1" and "name2" is identical, not just if they refer to the same object. The second if statement uses the "==" operator to compare two integers, "guess" and "answer". This operator checks if the values of these integers are exactly the same, ensuring a numerical comparison. Both statements are correctly applying their respective comparison methods for strings and integers.

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  • 20. 

    Kim has just constructed her first for loop within the Java language.  Which of the following is not a required part of a for loop?

    • Initialization

    • Condition

    • Variable

    • Increment

    Correct Answer
    A. Variable
    Explanation
    A variable is not a required part of a for loop. The initialization, condition, and increment are the essential components of a for loop. The initialization sets the initial value of the loop control variable, the condition determines when the loop will continue executing, and the increment specifies how the loop control variable will be updated after each iteration. However, a variable is not necessary for a for loop to function properly.

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  • 21. 

    What is the function of the 'throw' keyword in Java?

    • It explicitly passes control to another part of the program.

    • It is used to declare a variable.

    • It terminates the program immediately.

    • It is used to signal the occurrence of an exception.

    Correct Answer
    A. It is used to signal the occurrence of an exception.
    Explanation
    The 'throw' keyword in Java is used within a method to throw an exception. This keyword allows a method to handle an error condition by interrupting its normal execution flow and passing responsibility for handling the problem to a caller of the method. This is done by creating an instance of an exception object and handing it off to the runtime system, which looks for an appropriate exception handler to catch it. This feature is essential for implementing error handling in Java, allowing developers to manage and respond to exceptional circumstances effectively.

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  • 22. 

    Which of the following sorting algorithms has the best average-case time complexity?

    • Bubble Sort

    • Merge Sort

    • Selection Sort

    • Quick Sort

    Correct Answer
    A. Merge Sort
    Explanation
    Merge Sort is a highly efficient algorithm with an average-case time complexity of O(nlog⁡n)O(n \log n). It employs a divide-and-conquer approach, splitting the dataset into smaller subsets, sorting them, and then merging the results. This makes it faster and more consistent than Bubble Sort and Selection Sort, which have O(n2)O(n^2) complexities. Merge Sort's efficiency holds even for worst-case scenarios, unlike Quick Sort, which can degrade to O(n2)O(n^2) under specific conditions. Its stability and predictable performance make it ideal for handling large datasets and applications requiring reliable sorting.

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  • 23. 

    Score =Keyboard.readInt(); while (score !=  -1)         { System.out.println (“The score is” + score); score =Keyboard.readInt();         } USER INPUT = -1, predict what will happen after the user input is accepted into the java program.

    • The while statement will continue to ask the user to enter a score and then print out the score that has been received.

    • The while loop will execute an infinite number of times because the program statement can never be false

    • The while statement will never print the statement “The score is” because the condition present within the while will be false on the first time through.

    • The while statement will function until a value other than –1 is entered.

    Correct Answer
    A. The while statement will function until a value other than –1 is entered.
    Explanation
    In the provided Java code snippet, the program begins by reading an integer input for the variable score. It then enters a while loop that continues as long as score is not equal to -1. Inside the loop, it prints the current score and then reads another score input. When the user enters -1, the condition score != -1 becomes false, causing the loop to terminate. Therefore, the loop will continue to process and output the scores entered by the user until the user inputs -1, which stops the loop.

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  • 24. 

    What is the purpose of the volatile keyword in C/C++?

    • To prevent code optimization

    • To initialize variables

    • To allow thread synchronization

    • To allocate memory

    Correct Answer
    A. To prevent code optimization
    Explanation
    The volatile keyword ensures a variable's value is always read from memory, as it may change outside the program’s flow (e.g., by hardware). This prevents the compiler from optimizing the code in ways that assume the variable's value is constant. For example, a volatile variable might represent a hardware register updated asynchronously. Without this keyword, the compiler might cache the value, causing incorrect behavior. Using volatile ensures accurate, real-time access to these variables, especially in concurrent systems.

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  • 25. 

    Kevin has implemented a While loop within his Java program. Assess the code statement below and select which answer best summarizes the output Kevin will experience once the while statement is executed. int count = 1; while (count <=25) { System.out.println (count); Count = count –1; } System.out.println (“Done”);

    • The while loop will execute 25 times and print the numbers 1 through 25 and finish with the printing of Done.

    • The while loop will execute 25 times and print the numbers 25 down to 1 and finish with the printing of Done.

    • The while statement will not function correctly due to a missing semicolon(;) after the statement while (count <=25)

    • The while statement will execute by counting down from 1 until infinity and result in an infinite loop.

    Correct Answer
    A. The while statement will execute by counting down from 1 until infinity and result in an infinite loop.
    Explanation
    The code initializes the variable "count" to 1 and enters a while loop that will continue as long as "count" is less than or equal to 25. Inside the loop, it prints the value of "count" and then decrements "count" by 1. However, there is a typo in the code where "Count" is used instead of "count" for decrementing. As a result, "count" will always remain 1, causing an infinite loop. The program will not print any numbers or the "Done" message.

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  • 26. 

    Which of the sets of statements below will add 1 to x if x is positive and subtract 1 from x if x is negative but leave x alone if x is 0?

    • If (x > 0) x++; else x--;

    • If (x > 0) x++; else if (x < 0) x--;

    • If (x == 0) x = 0; else x++; x--;

    • X++; x--;

    Correct Answer
    A. If (x > 0) x++; else if (x < 0) x--;
    Explanation
    The set of statements that will add 1 to x if x is positive, subtract 1 from x if x is negative, but leave x alone if x is 0 is: if (x > 0) x++; else if (x < 0) x--;
    If x is positive (greater than 0), it will be incremented by 1.
    If x is negative (less than 0), it will be decremented by 1.
    If x is 0, none of the conditions will be met, so x will remain unchanged.
    The other sets of statements do not properly handle the case where x is 0 or might not correctly subtract 1 from x when it is negative.

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  • 27. 

    Which data structure is most efficient for implementing a priority queue?

    • Linked List 

    • Stack

    • Heap

    • Binary Search Tree

    Correct Answer
    A. Heap
    Explanation
    A heap is the most efficient data structure for implementing a priority queue. It dynamically manages priorities, allowing access to the highest or lowest priority element in O(1) time. Operations like insertion and deletion are performed in O(log n). Unlike linked lists or stacks, which require linear time to find the highest priority element, heaps maintain priority order inherently. Binary search trees are less optimal because of the overhead required to balance them.

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  • 28. 

    Analyze the following error that was received when Scott tried to compile his Java program named average. Average.java:14: 'else' without 'if' else ^ Which of the following could have resulted in the error being generated?

    • Scott used an infinite loop within his program

    • Scott placed a semicolon at the end of an If statement

    • Scott used an incorrect looping structure

    • Scott omitted a line of code below the If statement such as a System.out.pritnln or a Keybaord.readInt();

    Correct Answer
    A. Scott omitted a line of code below the If statement such as a System.out.pritnln or a Keybaord.readInt();
    Explanation
    This error typically occurs when an if statement is incorrectly terminated with a semicolon, which causes the subsequent else statement to appear as though it isn't associated with any if statement. This mistake breaks the linkage between if and else, leading to the compiler error "else without if." This scenario is common when a programmer accidentally places a semicolon after the if condition, effectively ending the statement prematurely.

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  • 29. 

    Which keyword is used to declare a constant variable in Java?

    • Const

    • Static

    • Final

    • Immutable

    Correct Answer
    A. Final
    Explanation
    In Java, the keyword 'final' is used to declare constant variables. Once a variable is assigned a value with 'final', it cannot be changed. This contrasts with other languages that might use 'const' or similar keywords. 'Final' can also be applied to methods and classes to prevent them from being overridden or subclassed, respectively.

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  • 30. 

    A __________ is used to terminate a statement in C++.

    Correct Answer
    (;) semicolon
    Explanation
    In C++, a semicolon (;) is used to terminate statements, distinguishing individual instructions within the code. This syntax rule ensures clarity and logical structure, allowing the compiler to interpret the code correctly. For example, the statement int a = 5; ends with a semicolon, signifying the end of the declaration. Omitting the semicolon often leads to syntax errors, disrupting the compilation process. While other symbols like commas or colons serve specific purposes, they do not terminate statements. Using semicolons consistently is crucial for maintaining clean, error-free code and adhering to standard programming practices.

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Godwin Iheuwa |MS (Computer Science) |
Database Administrator
Godwin Iheuwa, a Database Administrator at MTN Nigeria, holds an MS in Computer Science, specializing in Agile Methodologies and Database Administration from the University of Bedfordshire and a Bachelor's in Computer Science from the University of Port Harcourt. His proficiency in SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) and SQL Server Management Studio contributes to his expertise in database management.

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  • Dec 27, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
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    Expert Reviewed by
    Godwin Iheuwa
  • Mar 31, 2010
    Quiz Created by
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