specification overview
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) is a single-tier linear qualification with two 1h 45m written papers. Paper 1 (Computer Systems) covers data representation, networks, hardware and software; Paper 2 (Algorithms, Programming and Logic) tests problem-solving with CIE pseudo-code. Each paper is 75 marks, worth 50%.
subject content
1. Data representation
Paper 1- Number systems (binary, denary, hexadecimal)
- Text, sound, images, data storage, compression
2. Data transmission
Paper 1- Serial vs parallel, simplex/half-duplex/duplex
- Error detection (parity, checksums), USB, encryption
3. Hardware
Paper 1- Computer architecture (Von Neumann, fetch-execute)
- Input, output, secondary storage devices, embedded systems
4. Software
Paper 1- System software, application software, programming languages
- Compilers, interpreters, IDEs
5. The Internet and its uses
Paper 1- Internet vs WWW, URLs, HTTP/HTTPS, cookies
- Digital currency, cyber security threats and mitigations
6. Automated and emerging technologies
Paper 1- Automated systems, robotics, artificial intelligence
- Impacts on society
7. Algorithm design and problem-solving
Paper 2- Structure diagrams, flowcharts, pseudo-code
- Trace tables, standard algorithms (sort, search, totalling, counting)
8. Programming
Paper 2- Sequence, selection, iteration; data types; procedures/functions
- Arrays (1D, 2D), string handling, file handling
9. Databases
Paper 2- Single-table databases; the terms record, field, primary key
- SQL SELECT, FROM, WHERE, ORDER BY
10. Boolean logic
Paper 2- AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, XOR gates
- Truth tables and logic circuits
assessment structure
| Paper | What's assessed | Length | Marks | Weight | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (Computer Systems) | Data representation, transmission, hardware, software, Internet, emerging tech | 1h 45m | 75 | 50% | Short-answer and structured questions |
| Paper 2 (Algorithms, Programming and Logic) | Algorithm design, programming, databases, Boolean logic | 1h 45m | 75 | 50% | Short-answer, code writing/tracing, algorithm design, logic gates |
Paper 2 mostly uses CIE pseudo-code for coding answers. In the final 15-mark unseen scenario question, candidates may write their solution in pseudo-code OR one high-level language (Python, Java or Visual Basic). Solutions in any other language are not credited.
assessment objectives
| AO | What it means | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of computer science. | 40% |
| AO2 | Apply knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of computer science to a given context, including the analysis and design of computational or programming problems. | 40% |
| AO3 | Provide solutions to problems by evaluating computer systems, making reasoned judgements and presenting conclusions. | 20% |
key tips for success
Master CIE pseudo-code
Paper 2 uses Cambridge's own pseudo-code standard. Learn the syntax (variable declaration, FOR loops, IF-THEN-ELSE, procedures/functions) from the syllabus appendix.
Practise trace tables
Every Paper 2 has code tracing. Step through code line by line and track every variable in a table.
Learn number system conversion cold
Paper 1 tests binary, denary and hexadecimal conversion plus binary arithmetic. Drill until fast.
Draw logic circuits from truth tables
Paper 2 Boolean logic can ask you to combine AND/OR/NOT/XOR gates to match a truth table. Practise sketching.
Learn SQL basics
SELECT, FROM, WHERE, ORDER BY on single-table databases. Practise reading table outputs and writing queries.
Watch pacing on Paper 2
Paper 2 has both theory and code writing. Split your time (roughly 50/50) and don't get stuck on one long code question.
Where to next
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