Basic To Intermediate Computer Skills: Quiz
Intermediate computer skills, as defined by the ICAS Computer Skills Assessment Framework include Internet and email, computers, word processing, graphics and multimedia, and spreadsheets and databases. Test out some of the basic computer knowledge you have acquired so far by taking up the quiz below. All the best as you improve your understanding.
- 1.
When you try to open a file you see this message. What is the cause?
- A.
You need the Unlock Code to edit this file
- B.
The "Default User" has password protected this file
- C.
Someone else on your network is editing this file
- D.
You do not have permissions to view this file
Correct Answer
C. Someone else on your network is editing this fileExplanation
The cause for seeing the message "Someone else on your network is editing this file" when trying to open a file is that another user on the same network is currently editing the file. This means that the file is currently in use by another person, and therefore cannot be opened or edited by anyone else until the other user finishes their editing session and releases the file.Rate this question:
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- 2.
To quickly check your hard drive for free space you can:
- A.
Hold down F8 key while booting the computer
- B.
Right-Click on the C drive in My Computer and click on Properties
- C.
Right-Click on My Computer on the Desktop and click on Drive Properties
- D.
Right-Click on Internet Explorer on the Desktop and click on Internet Options
- E.
Hold down the Control and Alt keys and hit the Delete key (Ctl, Alt, Del)
Correct Answer
B. Right-Click on the C drive in My Computer and click on PropertiesExplanation
To quickly check your hard drive for free space, you can right-click on the C drive in My Computer and click on Properties. This option allows you to access the properties of the C drive, which includes information about the total size of the drive and the amount of free space available.Rate this question:
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- 3.
You receive an email from someone in your company’s IT department that you know personally, and it contains an attachment named “speed_update.exe” with instructions for you to open and launch the attached file to update your network card to allow your internet connection to increase in speed. What should you do?
- A.
Save the attached file to your desktop, then double click the file and follow instructions to install it
- B.
Reply to the email, thanking the person who sent it to you, and follow the instructions to install the update
- C.
Forward the email to everyone in your office so that they can also get the increased internet speed from the update
- D.
Report this to your supervisor and do what they tell you to do
Correct Answer
D. Report this to your supervisor and do what they tell you to doExplanation
It is important to exercise caution when receiving email attachments, especially if they are unexpected or come from sources that you know personally. Opening and launching an attachment named "speed_update.exe" can potentially be a security risk, as it could contain malware or viruses. It is always best to report such emails to your supervisor, who can assess the situation and provide guidance on how to proceed safely. Following their instructions ensures that you take the appropriate steps to protect yourself and your company's network.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Why would an organization require all computers have the same version of word processor?
- A.
Ensure documents can be shared throughout the organization
- B.
Saving money by buying multiple licenses and printers for product
- C.
Because they share the spell checker over the network
- D.
Takes less hard disk space on each computer by using one version of software
Correct Answer
A. Ensure documents can be shared throughout the organizationExplanation
An organization would require all computers to have the same version of word processor in order to ensure that documents can be shared throughout the organization. If different versions of the word processor are used, compatibility issues may arise, making it difficult to open, edit, and share documents seamlessly. Having the same version of the word processor ensures that everyone can work with the same features, formatting, and file types, promoting collaboration and efficiency within the organization.Rate this question:
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- 5.
After installing a new video card, the following problems occur: - The computer stops playing audio and video files - You can’t surf the web - Your computer keeps restarting randomly - You see strange characters on your monitor. What is the cause of this problem?
- A.
Your O/S is corrupted
- B.
Hardware conflict or driver problem
- C.
Network is down
- D.
Hard Drive Crashed
Correct Answer
B. Hardware conflict or driver problemExplanation
The correct answer is "Hardware conflict or driver problem." When installing a new video card, it is possible that there may be compatibility issues or conflicts with existing hardware or drivers. This can lead to various problems such as the computer not playing audio and video files, inability to surf the web, random restarts, and strange characters on the monitor. Resolving this issue may require updating drivers, checking for hardware conflicts, or reinstalling the video card properly.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What computer operating system is "open source" and gives programmers ability to change coding in o/s if required?
- A.
PC/ PDA running Palm O/S
- B.
Server running Linux
- C.
PC running Windows 7
- D.
Macintosh OSX
Correct Answer
B. Server running LinuxExplanation
The correct answer is a server running Linux. Linux is an open-source operating system that allows programmers to modify and customize its code according to their requirements. This feature gives developers the flexibility to adapt the operating system to their specific needs and create tailored solutions.Rate this question:
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- 7.
3.2 GHz (gigahertz) is used to rate the speed of the_____________.
- A.
Network Connection
- B.
Processor
- C.
BIOS ROM
- D.
System Board
Correct Answer
B. ProcessorExplanation
The correct answer is Processor. The speed of a processor is typically measured in GHz (gigahertz). This measurement indicates how many cycles the processor can complete in one second, which directly affects the speed and performance of the computer. Therefore, 3.2 GHz is used to rate the speed of the processor.Rate this question:
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- 8.
How can you organize files so they can be easily found and identified?
- A.
Store all files in "My Documents Folder"
- B.
Create and name folders and put related files in those folders
- C.
Store all files created into a single folder
- D.
Use same letters, numbers. and symbols when naming a file
Correct Answer
B. Create and name folders and put related files in those foldersExplanation
Creating and naming folders and putting related files in those folders is an effective way to organize files so they can be easily found and identified. By grouping similar files together in folders, it becomes easier to locate specific files when needed. This method allows for a logical and structured organization system, making it more efficient to navigate through files and reducing the time spent searching for specific documents. Storing all files in a single folder or using the same letters, numbers, and symbols when naming files may lead to a cluttered and disorganized file system, making it difficult to locate and identify specific files.Rate this question:
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- 9.
In the control panel, which option will allow you to find and fix problems with hardware devices installed on your computer?
- A.
Add New Hardware
- B.
System
- C.
Administrative Tools
- D.
Network Connections
Correct Answer
B. SystemExplanation
The option "System" in the control panel will allow you to find and fix problems with hardware devices installed on your computer. This option provides access to various system settings and configurations, including device manager, which allows you to manage and troubleshoot hardware devices.Rate this question:
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- 10.
You would use a word processing application to perform which of the following tasks?
- A.
Forecast annual budgets
- B.
Create a database
- C.
To process words among multiple files on the network simultaneously
- D.
To write a memo
Correct Answer
D. To write a memoExplanation
A word processing application is used to create and edit documents, such as memos, letters, and reports. It provides tools for formatting text, inserting images, and spell checking. It is not used for forecasting budgets or creating databases, as those tasks require specialized software. Processing words among multiple files on the network simultaneously is also not a specific task of a word processing application. Therefore, the correct answer is to write a memo.Rate this question:
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- 11.
When a document is opened from the hard disk, the information making up the file is moved from _______________.
- A.
ROM to RAM
- B.
RAM to Hard Disk
- C.
Hard Disk to Network
- D.
Hard Disk to RAM
Correct Answer
D. Hard Disk to RAMExplanation
When a document is opened from the hard disk, the information making up the file is moved from the storage location on the hard disk to the computer's RAM (Random Access Memory). This is done to ensure faster access to the data while the document is being used or edited. RAM is a volatile memory that allows for quick retrieval and manipulation of data, whereas the hard disk is a non-volatile storage medium that holds data for long-term storage.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Computer Programs used to create and modify video, animations, and music are called _______________.
- A.
Presentation
- B.
ITunes
- C.
Multimedia
- D.
Windows Media Player
Correct Answer
C. MultimediaExplanation
Computer programs used to create and modify video, animations, and music are called multimedia. These programs are specifically designed to handle various types of media files and allow users to edit and manipulate them according to their needs. Multimedia software often includes features such as video editing, audio mixing, and animation tools, making it a comprehensive solution for creating and modifying different forms of digital media content.Rate this question:
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- 13.
You insert a USB jump drive or thumb drive into your computer's USB port. A window pops up on your screen with the contents of the drive displayed. To copy a file from the jump drive to a folder inside your "My Documents" folder you can:
- A.
Right-Click on the file, click on copy, then double-click on My Documents on the desktop and right-click on the folder you want to copy the file to and click on "Paste"
- B.
Right-Click on the file and click on "Move to Desktop"
- C.
Click on Start/Control Panel, and double-click on "Move Files and Folders"
- D.
Right-Click on the file and select "Move Files and Folders"
Correct Answer
A. Right-Click on the file, click on copy, then double-click on My Documents on the desktop and right-click on the folder you want to copy the file to and click on "Paste"Explanation
To copy a file from the jump drive to a folder inside the "My Documents" folder, you need to right-click on the file and select "Copy". Then, you should double-click on the "My Documents" folder on the desktop to open it. Next, right-click on the folder where you want to copy the file to and select "Paste". This method allows you to create a copy of the file in the desired folder without removing it from the jump drive.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Microsoft recently released Windows 7. Before releasing this operating system, software manufacturers provided a pre-released version of the o/s and asked users to try it and report any problems so they can resolve it before the o/s is released. What is the name of this process?
- A.
Re-Programming
- B.
Design and Coding
- C.
Beta Testing
- D.
Debugging
- E.
Pre-Releasing
Correct Answer
C. Beta TestingExplanation
The process described in the question, where software manufacturers release a pre-released version of the operating system to users for testing and feedback, is commonly known as beta testing. Beta testing allows users to try out the software and report any problems or issues they encounter, so that the manufacturers can resolve them before the official release of the operating system. This helps ensure that the final version of the software is stable and free from major bugs or glitches.Rate this question:
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- 15.
__________________ software provides the ability to sort data, create formulas for adding, subtracting, multiplying or dividing numbers in the file and make what-if statements to perform forecasts.
- A.
Database
- B.
Spreadsheet
- C.
Word Processor
- D.
Web Page Design
Correct Answer
B. SpreadsheetExplanation
Spreadsheet software, such as Microsoft Excel, allows users to sort data, perform calculations using formulas, and create what-if scenarios for forecasting. This software is specifically designed for organizing and manipulating numerical data, making it the most suitable option for the given tasks. Databases are used for storing and retrieving large amounts of data, word processors are used for creating and editing text documents, and web page design software is used for creating and editing websites.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What type of software controls & communicates between hardware and software listed here: - device drivers - applications - keyboard - mouse - printer
- A.
Anti-Virus
- B.
Device Manager
- C.
Operating System
- D.
Word Processor
- E.
BIOS
Correct Answer
C. Operating SystemExplanation
The operating system is the software that controls and communicates between the hardware and software listed in the question. It manages the resources of the computer, including the keyboard, mouse, printer, and device drivers. It also provides a platform for applications to run on and ensures that they can communicate with the hardware effectively. The operating system acts as an intermediary between the hardware and software, allowing them to work together seamlessly.Rate this question:
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- 17.
800x600 pixels is used to measure _______________.
- A.
Video Cards
- B.
Network Bandwidth
- C.
Monitor Resolution
- D.
Distance formulas in Spreadsheets
Correct Answer
C. Monitor ResolutionExplanation
The measurement of 800x600 pixels is commonly used to determine the resolution of a monitor. The first number, 800, represents the number of horizontal pixels displayed on the screen, while the second number, 600, represents the number of vertical pixels. This measurement helps to determine the clarity and detail of the images and text displayed on the monitor.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which is an IP address?
- A.
It is a code that is the ID of the network card or device in the computer and can't be changed
- B.
It is the same as a MAC address
- C.
It is a code assigned by a router in DHCP or typed in manually in the network device properties
- D.
It is always 255.255.255.0
Correct Answer
C. It is a code assigned by a router in DHCP or typed in manually in the network device propertiesExplanation
An IP address is a code that is assigned by a router in DHCP or typed in manually in the network device properties. It serves as the identifier of the network card or device in a computer. Unlike a MAC address, an IP address can be changed. The statement "It is always 255.255.255.0" is incorrect as it refers to a subnet mask, not an IP address.Rate this question:
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- 19.
How can you tell at a glance when looking at a list of files in a folder, what version of Microsoft Word the file was saved in?
- A.
By the file prefix
- B.
By the color of the ISOM
- C.
By the file name
- D.
By the file properties
- E.
By the file suffix (if “Hide extensions for known file types” is unchecked in “Folder Options”)
Correct Answer
E. By the file suffix (if “Hide extensions for known file types” is unchecked in “Folder Options”)Explanation
The file suffix is the part of the file name that comes after the period. It typically indicates the file type or format. In the case of Microsoft Word files, the file suffix is ".doc" for files saved in the older Word format and ".docx" for files saved in the newer Word format. By checking the file suffix, you can easily determine the version of Microsoft Word in which the file was saved, provided that the option to hide file extensions is unchecked in the folder settings.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Data is read by PC's in binary form.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
PCs read data in binary form because computers use binary code, which is a system of representing information using only two digits: 0 and 1. This binary code is used to represent all types of data, including text, numbers, images, and videos. Each binary digit, or bit, represents a single on/off state, which can be interpreted by the computer's hardware and software. Therefore, it is true that PCs read data in binary form.Rate this question:
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- 21.
What is RAM?
- A.
Read-Only Memory
- B.
It is the actual unused space on a Hard Drive
- C.
Random Access Memory
- D.
They are Memory Sticks that plug into your Hard Drive and make it faster.
Correct Answer
C. Random Access MemoryExplanation
RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is a type of computer memory that allows data to be accessed randomly, meaning any byte of memory can be accessed without touching the preceding bytes. This makes it faster and more efficient compared to other types of memory. Unlike Read-Only Memory (ROM), RAM is not permanent and is volatile, meaning it loses its data when the computer is turned off. RAM is used by the computer to store data that is actively being used by the CPU, allowing for faster access and processing of information.Rate this question:
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- 22.
You would use database software to perform which of the following tasks?
- A.
Manage company inventory records
- B.
Store useful mathematical formulas
- C.
Create or edit web pages
- D.
Clear Hardware Conflicts
Correct Answer
A. Manage company inventory recordsExplanation
Database software is specifically designed to store, organize, and manage large amounts of data. It allows users to create, edit, and manipulate databases, making it an ideal tool for managing company inventory records. This software enables users to input, update, and retrieve information related to inventory, such as stock levels, product details, and sales records. It also allows for efficient searching, sorting, and reporting of data, making it an essential tool for businesses to track and manage their inventory effectively.Rate this question:
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- 23.
If you wanted to share files and folders across the network, which of these computer systems would be the best choice?
- A.
Macintosh
- B.
Terminal
- C.
Mainframe
- D.
Laptop
- E.
Server
Correct Answer
E. ServerExplanation
A server would be the best choice for sharing files and folders across the network because servers are specifically designed to handle and manage network resources. They have the necessary hardware and software capabilities to provide centralized storage and access control for multiple users. Servers also offer better performance and reliability compared to other computer systems like Macintosh, Terminal, Mainframe, or Laptop, making them ideal for sharing files and folders in a network environment.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Without going through minimizing all the windows on your desktop, what can you click on to instantly bring your desktop to the forefront?
- A.
Click on the Desktop Icon in the System Tray
- B.
Click on Start/Show Desktop
- C.
Click on the Show Desktop Icon in the Quick-Launch Toolbar
- D.
Click on the Escape to Desktop Toolbar
- E.
Hit the Escape key on the keyboard
Correct Answer
C. Click on the Show Desktop Icon in the Quick-Launch ToolbarExplanation
Clicking on the Show Desktop Icon in the Quick-Launch Toolbar instantly brings the desktop to the forefront without minimizing all the windows on the desktop. This icon is specifically designed to provide a quick and convenient way to access the desktop without the need to manually minimize all the open windows. It is usually located in the taskbar or the bottom right corner of the screen, providing easy access to the desktop with just a single click.Rate this question:
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- 25.
In Windows XP, how should you remove a USB device?
- A.
USB devices can be plugged in and unplugged at any time
- B.
USB devices are “Hot Plug and Play” and can be unplugged at any time
- C.
Click on “Safely Remove Hardware” icon in the Quick Launch Toolbar and choose the device you want to remove
- D.
In the System Tray, there is an icon for “Safely Remove Hardware” that should be used for ejecting USB devices.
- E.
There is a “Server Tray” icon that should be used for ejecting USB devices, and it will say “it is now safe to remove the device”.
Correct Answer
D. In the System Tray, there is an icon for “Safely Remove Hardware” that should be used for ejecting USB devices.Explanation
To safely remove a USB device in Windows XP, you should use the icon for "Safely Remove Hardware" in the System Tray. This icon provides a safe way to eject the USB device before physically unplugging it, ensuring that all data transfers are complete and preventing any potential data loss or damage to the device.Rate this question:
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- 26.
If an application you are using becomes locked up and says “Not Responding” in the title bar, you should
- A.
Hold the power button down for 7 seconds and shut off the computer
- B.
Press Control/Alt/Delete simultaneously and bring up the Task Manager and end the application that is not responding.
- C.
Leave that application alone and use another application on the computer that can do the same work.
- D.
Press Control/Alt/Delete simultaneously and launch the Device Manager and end the application that is not responding.
- E.
Right-Click on My Computer and select Task Manager, highlight the program that is not responding and click on “End Program”.
Correct Answer
B. Press Control/Alt/Delete simultaneously and bring up the Task Manager and end the application that is not responding.Explanation
The correct answer is to press Control/Alt/Delete simultaneously and bring up the Task Manager and end the application that is not responding. This is the recommended solution because when an application becomes locked up and says "Not Responding," it means that the application is not functioning properly and is unresponsive. By accessing the Task Manager through the Control/Alt/Delete command, the user can view all running applications and processes and forcefully end the one that is causing the issue. This allows the user to regain control of their computer and continue using other applications.Rate this question:
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- 27.
You have an application that you load on several laptops to be used in the field by different workers. You have a small USB printer for each laptop that gets stored separately. When you prepare these systems to be deployed, you can’t help but pair a computer with a printer that was used on another laptop. When you test the setup, the printer does not print. How can you make the printer work with the laptop you’ve assigned to it?
- A.
Test each printer with the laptop until you find the one that prints, and use that one
- B.
Right-Click on My Computer and get properties, then click on the “Printers & Faxes” tab, and un-install the printer, then re-install it.
- C.
Click on Start/Printers & Faxes or Start/Settings/Printers & Faxes, and find the printer in the list that the status says “Ready”, and remove the printer with the same name that shows “Offline” as the status.
- D.
Unplug the Printer’s USB cable and try it in another USB port on the laptop until you find the one that works.
- E.
The printer uses either a USB 1 or a USB 2 cable and you have the wrong cable. Get a different cable that will work with the printer.
Correct Answer
C. Click on Start/Printers & Faxes or Start/Settings/Printers & Faxes, and find the printer in the list that the status says “Ready”, and remove the printer with the same name that shows “Offline” as the status.Explanation
To make the printer work with the assigned laptop, the user should click on Start/Printers & Faxes or Start/Settings/Printers & Faxes, and locate the printer in the list that has the status "Ready". They should then remove the printer with the same name that shows "Offline" as the status. This will ensure that the printer is properly connected and configured to the laptop, allowing it to print successfully.Rate this question:
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- 28.
You are having issues getting a computer to boot up, and you are asked to boot into safe mode. How do you boot into “Safe Mode”?
- A.
Click on Start/Shut Down, and when the window pops up, click on “Boot in Safe Mode”
- B.
Click on Start/Shut Down, and shut down the computer, then turn it on and hold down the F7 key until it boots into Safe Mode
- C.
Click on Start/Shut Down, and shut the computer down, then turn it on and tap on the F8 key until the Safe Mode screen comes up, then choose from the list of modes to boot into
- D.
Click on Start/Shut Down, and click on “Restart”, then as the computer restarts, hold down the Safe Mode key on the keyboard to bring up the Safe Mode screen, then choose “Boot into Safe Mode”
Correct Answer
C. Click on Start/Shut Down, and shut the computer down, then turn it on and tap on the F8 key until the Safe Mode screen comes up, then choose from the list of modes to boot intoExplanation
To boot into "Safe Mode," you need to click on Start/Shut Down, shut down the computer, and then turn it on. While the computer is starting up, you need to tap on the F8 key until the Safe Mode screen appears. From there, you can choose the mode you want to boot into.Rate this question:
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Mar 05, 2024Quiz Edited by
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May 18, 2011Quiz Created by
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