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GNDU Question Paper-2024
B.A 1
st
Semester
COMPUTER SCIENCE
(Computer Fundamental & PC Software)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 75
Note: Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section. The
Fifth question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Describe the evolution of programming languages from the first to the fifth generation
of computers. How have these languages evolved to meet the changing needs of
computer systems and users?
2. How communication devices work? What are the advantages of using wireless
communication devices over wired ones?
SECTION-B
3. Explain the role of a monitor as an output device. Explain the concept of resolution in
monitors and how it affects display quality.
4. Define Optical storage. How data can be stored on optical storage device? Name few
optical storage devices.
SECTION-C
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5. (a) What are the key features of modern operating systems like Windows, macOS, and
Linux?
(b) What are the different ways to view files and folders in File Explorer?
6. What is the function of the 'Mail Merge' feature in Microsoft Word? Explain by taking
suitable example.
SECTION-D
7. Explain Normal view, Slide Sorter view, and Slide Show view of a presentation. Discuss
the uses of each view.
8. Define the following in MS-Excel:
(a) Relative and Absolute cell references.
(b) Sorting of data in ascending or descending order.
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GNDU Answer Paper-2024
B.A 1
st
Semester
COMPUTER SCIENCE
(Computer Fundamental & PC Software)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 75
Note: Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section. The
Fifth question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Describe the evolution of programming languages from the first to the fifth generation
of computers. How have these languages evolved to meet the changing needs of
computer systems and users?
Ans: Evolution of Programming Languages: From First to Fifth Generation
A Fresh Beginning
Imagine you are standing at the dawn of the computer age. The room-sized machines hum
loudly, their blinking lights look mysterious, and scientists in white coats feed them
instructions written in long strings of 0s and 1s. This was the beginning of programming—
tedious, mechanical, and far from human-friendly. But just like humans evolved tools to
make life easier, programming languages too evolved, generation by generation, to make
computers more accessible, powerful, and intelligent.
Let’s walk through this fascinating journey, from the first generation to the fifth generation,
and see how each step brought computers closer to human needs.
First Generation Languages (1GL) – The Age of Machine Code
• Time Period: 1940s–1950s
• Nature: Pure machine language, written in binary (0s and 1s).
• How it worked: Every instruction had to be given in the form of binary digits. For
example, 10110000 might mean “add two numbers.”
• Advantages:
o Extremely fast because the computer understood it directly.
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o No need for translators.
• Disadvantages:
o Very difficult for humans to learn and write.
o Debugging errors was a nightmare.
o Programs were long and unreadable.
Story-like view: Imagine trying to write a love letter using only 0s and 1s. That’s how
programmers felt in the first generation—powerful but painfully restricted.
Second Generation Languages (2GL) – The Rise of Assembly
• Time Period: 1950s
• Nature: Assembly language, using mnemonics (short words or symbols) instead of
binary.
• How it worked: Instead of writing 10110000, a programmer could write ADD A, B.
An assembler then converted this into machine code.
• Advantages:
o Easier than binary.
o Programs were shorter and more understandable.
o Debugging became manageable.
• Disadvantages:
o Still machine-dependent (different computers had different assembly codes).
o Required knowledge of hardware.
Story-like view: If the first generation was like speaking in grunts, the second generation
was like inventing a basic alphabet. Programmers could finally “talk” to computers in a
slightly human way.
Third Generation Languages (3GL) – The Era of High-Level Languages
• Time Period: Late 1950s–1970s (and still widely used today).
• Nature: High-level, procedural languages that used English-like words.
• Examples: FORTRAN, COBOL, BASIC, C, Pascal.
• How it worked: Programmers wrote instructions in English-like syntax (e.g., PRINT
"HELLO"). A compiler or interpreter translated this into machine code.
• Advantages:
o Machine-independent (portable across systems).
o Easier to learn and write.
o Programs required fewer lines of code.
o Supported structured programming.
• Disadvantages:
o Slower than machine code (because of translation).
o Still required logical, step-by-step instructions.
Story-like view: This was like moving from telegrams to full sentences. Suddenly, computers
were no longer just for scientists—they became tools for businesses, students, and
hobbyists.
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Fourth Generation Languages (4GL) – The Age of Productivity
• Time Period: 1970s–1990s
• Nature: Non-procedural, problem-oriented languages.
• Examples: SQL, MATLAB, Oracle Reports, FoxPro.
• How it worked: Instead of telling the computer how to do something, programmers
told it what they wanted. For example, in SQL:
sql
SELECT name FROM students WHERE marks > 90;
This retrieves data without writing loops or conditions.
• Advantages:
o Very close to human language.
o Increased productivity—programs could be written quickly.
o Great for database management, report generation, and business
applications.
• Disadvantages:
o Less control over hardware.
o Not suitable for system-level programming.
Story-like view: If 3GLs were like writing essays, 4GLs were like filling out a form—you just
state what you want, and the system does the heavy lifting.
Fifth Generation Languages (5GL) – The Era of Intelligence
• Time Period: 1990s–Present
• Nature: Logic-based, AI-driven languages.
• Examples: Prolog, LISP, Mercury, and modern AI-oriented tools.
• How it works: Instead of giving step-by-step instructions, programmers define
problems and constraints. The computer uses logic and algorithms to find solutions.
• Applications: Artificial Intelligence, Expert Systems, Natural Language Processing,
Robotics.
• Advantages:
o Focus on problem-solving rather than coding details.
o Enables AI, machine learning, and advanced simulations.
• Disadvantages:
o Complex to design.
o Requires powerful hardware.
Story-like view: This is like teaching the computer to “think.” Instead of telling it every step,
you give it the rules, and it figures out the solution—almost like a student solving a puzzle
on their own.
How Programming Languages Evolved to Meet Changing Needs
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1. From Hardware to Humans:
o 1GL and 2GL were machine-focused.
o 3GL onwards, the focus shifted to making life easier for humans.
2. From Complexity to Simplicity:
o Early programmers struggled with binary.
o Today, even school students can write Python code in minutes.
3. From Specific to General:
o Assembly was tied to one machine.
o High-level languages became portable across systems.
4. From Instructions to Intelligence:
o Early languages required step-by-step commands.
o Modern languages allow problem-solving, AI, and automation.
5. From Experts to Everyone:
o In the 1940s, only scientists could program.
o Today, apps, websites, and AI tools are built by millions worldwide.
A Journey in Perspective
Think of programming languages as the evolution of human communication:
• 1GL: Cave drawings (binary grunts).
• 2GL: Alphabets (assembly mnemonics).
• 3GL: Full sentences (high-level languages).
• 4GL: Ready-made forms (non-procedural).
• 5GL: Intelligent conversations (AI-driven).
Each step brought us closer to making computers not just machines, but partners in solving
problems.
Conclusion
The evolution of programming languages from the first to the fifth generation is a story of
progress—from raw binary codes to intelligent systems capable of reasoning. Each
generation arose to meet the changing needs of users: speed, simplicity, portability,
productivity, and intelligence.
Today, when we write a few lines of Python to build a chatbot or use SQL to query millions
of records, we are standing on the shoulders of decades of evolution. The journey from 0s
and 1s to AI-driven problem-solving is not just about technology
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2. How communication devices work? What are the advantages of using wireless
communication devices over wired ones?
Ans: How Communication Devices Work & Why Wireless Feels Like Magic
Imagine you are sitting in a park on a sunny day. You take out your mobile phone, tap a few
times, and suddenly you are talking to your best friend who is sitting miles away. Or maybe
you open your laptop, and in seconds, you are watching a lecture streaming live from
another country.
This feels almost like magic, right? But behind this magic, there is a whole world of
communication devices that silently work together, making sure voices, texts, pictures, and
videos travel safely and quickly from one corner of the world to another.
Let’s understand this step by step, as if we are traveling inside the journey of a message.
The Journey of a Message: How Communication Devices Work
Think about it like a post office system, but much faster.
1. Message Creation
o You type a text on WhatsApp, say “Hi, how are you?” or speak into your
phone.
o The communication device (like your mobile or laptop) first converts your
voice or text into digital signals—basically 0s and 1s (binary code).
2. Encoding and Transmission
o Now, these 0s and 1s can’t just float in the air.
o The device uses its transmitter (radio waves, fiber optics, or electrical signals)
to send this data.
o If wired, it travels through copper wires or optical fibers.
o If wireless, it rides on radio waves in the air, just like music travels in FM
signals.
3. Travel Through a Medium
o Wired communication: The message runs through cables, like water flowing
in pipes.
o Wireless communication: The message flies in the air as invisible
electromagnetic waves, bouncing between towers, satellites, and Wi-Fi
routers.
4. Reception
o The receiver’s device (your friend’s phone, laptop, or radio) catches these
signals.
o It then decodes them back into text, sound, or video.
o Your friend sees your text, or hears your voice exactly the way you sent it.
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And all this happens in fractions of a second. That’s why communication devices feel like
super-fast messengers.
Examples of Communication Devices
• Wired devices: Landline phones, Ethernet-connected computers, intercoms.
• Wireless devices: Mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth earphones, satellites,
walkie-talkies.
Each of these has the same purpose—to transmit and receive information—but they use
different methods (wired or wireless).
Diagram: How Communication Devices Work
Wired vs. Wireless: A Friendly Comparison
To understand why wireless communication feels like the hero of the modern age, let’s
compare it with wired systems.
Wired Communication
• Medium: Cables (copper or optical fiber).
• Example: Landline telephone, desktop computer connected with Ethernet.
• Advantages:
o Stable and less interference.
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o Faster speeds in some cases (like fiber optics).
o Secure, since wires are harder to intercept.
• Limitations:
o Limited mobility—you must sit where the wire reaches.
o Installation and maintenance costs are high.
o Not convenient for outdoor or long-distance use without huge infrastructure.
Wireless Communication
• Medium: Air (radio waves, infrared, microwave).
• Example: Mobile phone, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth headphones.
• Advantages:
1. Mobility & Freedom – You can walk, travel, or sit anywhere and still stay
connected.
2. Easy Installation – No need to drill walls for cables; just set up a router or a
tower.
3. Global Connectivity – With satellites and mobile towers, even remote villages
get connected.
4. Multiple Device Connectivity – One Wi-Fi can connect a phone, laptop, smart
TV, and smartwatch at the same time.
5. Flexibility in Emergencies – During natural disasters, wireless communication
(like radio, mobile networks, or satellite phones) works faster than repairing
broken wires.
• Limitations:
o May face interference from weather or other signals.
o Sometimes slower than high-quality wired networks.
o Slightly less secure, since signals can be intercepted.
Why Wireless Wins in Today’s World
Imagine if we still relied only on wires. Carrying your landline telephone on a bus would be
impossible! Or connecting millions of students to online classes in remote areas would
require kilometers of cable.
Wireless has made:
• Education easier (online learning, digital classrooms).
• Work faster (remote jobs, video conferencing).
• Entertainment accessible (streaming movies on phones).
• Emergency services reliable (ambulance, disaster management).
In short, wireless communication is not just about convenience—it has become a lifeline of
modern society.
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Story to Remember
Think of wired communication as an old train track. It’s strong, reliable, and takes you from
one station to another. But you can only travel where the tracks are built.
Now think of wireless communication as flying with wings. You are free to move
anywhere—city, village, forest, or ocean—and you’ll still stay connected. That’s why the
world today prefers wings over tracks.
Conclusion
Communication devices are the silent magicians of our world. They convert our simple
words, voices, or images into signals, send them across distances—sometimes through
wires, sometimes through the air—and deliver them to the right person within seconds.
While wired devices laid the foundation of connectivity, wireless devices gave us freedom,
speed, and global reach. The advantages of wireless—mobility, flexibility, and easy access—
make it the backbone of modern communication.
So next time you send a WhatsApp message or make a video call, remember: your tiny
device is actually a superhero, turning invisible waves into human connection.
SECTION-B
3. Explain the role of a monitor as an output device. Explain the concept of resolution in
monitors and how it affects display quality.
Ans: The Role of a Monitor as an Output Device and the Concept of Resolution
A Fresh Beginning
Imagine sitting in front of a computer without a monitor. You type something, press a few
keys, maybe even run a program—but you see nothing. It’s like talking to someone who
never replies. That’s when you realize: the monitor is not just a screen, it’s the face of the
computer, the part that communicates with you visually. Without it, the computer is a silent
box of circuits.
From the earliest bulky CRTs to today’s sleek LED and OLED displays, the monitor has always
played the same essential role: to convert the invisible digital signals inside the computer
into visible text, images, and videos that humans can understand.
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The Role of a Monitor as an Output Device
A monitor is classified as an output device because it takes processed data from the
computer and presents it in a human-readable form. Let’s break down its role step by step:
1. The Window to the Digital World
• The CPU processes data, but the monitor shows the results.
• Whether it’s a student writing an essay, a gamer exploring virtual worlds, or a
designer editing images, the monitor is the medium through which they interact with
the computer’s output.
2. Types of Output Displayed
• Text: Documents, emails, coding interfaces.
• Graphics: Images, charts, diagrams.
• Video: Movies, animations, video calls.
• Interactive Interfaces: Buttons, icons, and menus that make computing user-
friendly.
3. How It Works
• The computer’s graphics card converts binary data into signals.
• These signals are sent to the monitor, which lights up pixels on the screen.
• The arrangement of these pixels creates the images we see.
4. Evolution of Monitors
• CRT (Cathode Ray Tube): Heavy, box-like monitors of the past.
• LCD (Liquid Crystal Display): Slimmer, lighter, energy-efficient.
• LED (Light Emitting Diode): Brighter colors, deeper blacks.
• OLED (Organic LED): Superior contrast, ultra-thin, used in high-end displays.
Each stage of evolution made monitors more efficient, portable, and visually appealing.
The Concept of Resolution
Now, let’s talk about resolution, the magic word that decides how sharp and clear your
monitor looks.
1. What is Resolution?
Resolution refers to the number of pixels (tiny dots of light) that make up the display on a
monitor. It is usually expressed as width × height.
• Example: A resolution of 1920 × 1080 means the screen has 1920 pixels horizontally
and 1080 pixels vertically.
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The higher the resolution, the more pixels are packed into the screen, and the sharper the
image appears.
2. Pixels: The Building Blocks of Display
• Think of pixels as tiles in a mosaic.
• The more tiles you use, the more detailed and realistic the picture becomes.
• Fewer tiles mean the picture looks blocky or blurry.
3. Common Resolutions
• HD (1280 × 720): Basic clarity, used in older monitors.
• Full HD (1920 × 1080): Standard for most modern monitors.
• 2K (2560 × 1440): Sharper, often used by gamers and designers.
• 4K (3840 × 2160): Ultra-high clarity, excellent for movies and professional work.
• 8K (7680 × 4320): Cutting-edge, extremely detailed, but requires powerful hardware.
4. How Resolution Affects Display Quality
• Sharpness: Higher resolution means sharper text and images.
• Detail: More pixels allow finer details to be visible.
• Screen Size Factor: Resolution must match screen size.
o A 24-inch monitor with 1080p looks sharp.
o A 55-inch monitor with the same 1080p may look blurry because the pixels
are stretched.
• User Experience:
o Gamers prefer high resolution for immersive graphics.
o Designers need it for precision.
o Everyday users benefit from clearer text and videos.
Resolution vs. Other Display Factors
While resolution is crucial, it works alongside other features:
• Refresh Rate: How many times the screen updates per second (measured in Hz).
Higher refresh rates (120Hz, 144Hz) make motion smoother.
• Color Accuracy: Important for designers and photographers.
• Brightness and Contrast: Affect visibility in different lighting conditions.
So, resolution is one piece of the puzzle, but a very important one.
A Story to Remember It Easily
Imagine two artists painting the same landscape.
• The first artist uses big, chunky brushes. The painting looks rough, with less detail.
• The second artist uses tiny, fine brushes. The painting looks sharp, with every leaf
and ripple visible.
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That’s exactly what resolution does. A low-resolution monitor is like the first artist—
functional but rough. A high-resolution monitor is like the second—detailed and lifelike.
Why Resolution Matters in Everyday Life
• Students: Reading e-books or writing assignments is easier on a sharp screen.
• Gamers: High resolution makes virtual worlds more immersive.
• Designers: Precision in editing images or videos depends on resolution.
• General Users: Even watching a movie feels more enjoyable when the display is
crisp.
Conclusion
The monitor is more than just a screen—it is the storyteller of the computer, translating
invisible codes into visible experiences. As an output device, it plays the vital role of
connecting humans with machines.
Resolution, on the other hand, is the measure of how clearly that story is told. Higher
resolution means sharper, more detailed, and more lifelike images. It transforms the
monitor from a simple display into a window of clarity, creativity, and immersion.
From the bulky CRTs of the past to today’s ultra-thin 4K and 8K displays, monitors have
evolved to meet the changing needs of users—students, professionals, gamers, and
dreamers alike. And at the heart of this evolution lies one simple truth: the clearer we see,
the better we connect with the digital world.
4. Define Optical storage. How data can be stored on optical storage device? Name few
optical storage devices.
Ans: Optical Storage: A Story of Light and Data
Imagine you’re sitting in a dark room with a tiny flashlight. The beam of light shines onto a
shiny disc, and as you move it around, you see bright spots, dim areas, and reflections. Now,
what if I told you that these tiny reflections and dull patches could actually represent your
favourite songs, movies, or even a big software program? That’s the magical world of
optical storage — where information is written and read with the help of light.
1. Definition of Optical Storage
In very simple words:
Optical storage is a type of data storage technology where information is written and read
using a laser beam of light on the surface of a disc-like medium.
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Instead of relying on magnetic fields (like hard drives) or electric signals (like pen drives),
optical storage devices use optics — light and reflection — to store and retrieve data.
2. How Does Optical Storage Work?
Let’s go step by step like a story:
(a) The Disc Surface
An optical disc (like a CD or DVD) looks shiny and smooth, but under a microscope, it is full
of tiny bumps and flat areas arranged in a spiral track from the center to the edge.
• These bumps are called pits.
• The flat areas between pits are called lands.
Think of it like a road that has speed breakers (pits) and flat smooth stretches (lands).
(b) Writing Data (Storing Information)
When we want to store data on an optical disc, a laser beam is used to burn microscopic
pits into the surface of the disc.
• A pit represents binary digit 0.
• A land represents binary digit 1.
And since computers only understand 0s and 1s (binary language), all your files — videos,
songs, documents — are translated into pits and lands.
(c) Reading Data (Retrieving Information)
When you put the disc in a CD/DVD drive, another laser light scans the spiral track.
• When the laser hits a land, it reflects back strongly — meaning 1.
• When the laser hits a pit, the reflection is weaker or scattered — meaning 0.
This way, millions of tiny reflections are converted into binary code, and your computer
rebuilds them into usable files.
So, optical storage is basically a dance between light beams and shiny surfaces, decoding
the hidden message written on a disc.
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3. Step-by-Step Process of Data Storage on Optical Devices
To make it even clearer, let’s break it down:
1. Encoding – Your file (say, a movie) is converted into binary code (0s and 1s).
2. Burning – A laser burns pits into the surface of the disc to represent these binary
codes.
3. Storage – The disc holds the data safely in the form of pits and lands.
4. Reading – Another laser scans the disc; depending on how the light reflects, the
drive converts it back to binary.
5. Decoding – Finally, your computer converts that binary back into sound, video, or
document — something meaningful for you.
4. Types of Optical Storage Devices
Optical storage devices are all around us. Some common ones include:
1. CD (Compact Disc):
o Capacity: Around 700 MB.
o Used for songs, software, and small files.
2. DVD (Digital Versatile Disc):
o Capacity: 4.7 GB (single layer) and 8.5 GB (dual layer).
o Used for movies, games, and larger files.
3. Blu-ray Disc:
o Capacity: 25 GB (single layer) and up to 128 GB in some cases.
o Used for high-definition movies and large data backups.
4. Mini Discs:
o Smaller version of CDs, once popular for music players.
5. Laser Discs (Old technology):
o Large discs used before DVDs came into use.
5. Advantages of Optical Storage
• Portability: Small and easy to carry.
• Durability: Resistant to scratches (to some extent) and unaffected by magnets.
• Cost-effective: Cheap to produce and buy.
• Good for distribution: Music albums, movies, and software were widely shared via
CDs and DVDs.
6. Limitations of Optical Storage
• Lower storage capacity compared to hard drives or flash drives.
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• Slower speed of reading/writing.
• Easily damaged by scratches or exposure to heat.
• Becoming outdated with cloud storage and USB drives taking over.
7. Diagram of Optical Storage
Here’s a simple diagram to help you visualize how data is stored and read:
Or imagine it like this:
• Pits = small holes (scatter light).
• Lands = flat surface (reflect light).
Laser light shines → Reflection is measured → Converted into binary → Rebuilt as your file.
8. Conclusion
So, optical storage is like a library of shiny discs where light plays the role of a reader. Every
pit and land tells a story in the secret language of binary. From the music you love, the
movies you watch, to the games you play — all of them once lived on these small, reflective
discs.
Although newer technologies like pen drives and cloud storage are taking the lead, optical
storage devices like CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs will always hold an important place in the
history of computing and entertainment.
In simple words: Optical storage is a marriage between light and data, where lasers act as
storytellers, reading the invisible marks that bring your digital world to life.
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SECTION-C
5. (a) What are the key features of modern operating systems like Windows, macOS, and
Linux?
(b) What are the different ways to view files and folders in File Explorer?
Ans: (a) Key Features of Modern Operating Systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)
(b) Different Ways to View Files and Folders in File Explorer
A Fresh Beginning
Imagine you’ve just bought a brand-new computer. You open the box, switch it on, and
within seconds, a colourful screen greets you. Icons, menus, and windows appear, inviting
you to explore. You don’t see the millions of electrical signals racing inside the machine—
you see a friendly interface that lets you click, drag, and type.
That magical layer between you and the raw hardware is the Operating System (OS).
Without it, the computer would be nothing more than a silent box of circuits. And just like a
conductor leading an orchestra, the OS ensures that every part of the computer—CPU,
memory, storage, and applications—works in harmony.
Now, let’s explore the three giants of the modern OS world—Windows, macOS, and Linux—
and then step into the everyday world of File Explorer, where we learn how to view and
organize our digital belongings.
Part (a): Key Features of Modern Operating Systems
1. Windows – The Universal Performer
Windows, developed by Microsoft, is the most widely used operating system in the world.
Its strength lies in its versatility and compatibility.
• User-Friendly Interface: The familiar Start Menu, taskbar, and windowed
applications make it easy for beginners and professionals alike.
• Software Compatibility: Almost every major software—whether it’s MS Office,
Photoshop, or high-end games—runs smoothly on Windows.
• Multitasking: Windows allows you to run multiple applications at once, switching
between them effortlessly.
• Security Features: Built-in antivirus (Windows Defender), regular updates, and user
account controls protect against threats.
• Customization: From wallpapers to themes, Windows lets users personalize their
experience.
• Networking and Connectivity: Strong support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cloud
services like OneDrive.
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In short: Windows is like a busy marketplace—open to everyone, full of options, and always
buzzing with activity.
2. macOS – The Artist’s Choice
macOS, created by Apple, is known for its elegance, stability, and seamless integration with
Apple devices.
• Sleek Design: The interface is clean, minimalistic, and visually appealing.
• Integration with Apple Ecosystem: macOS works hand-in-hand with iPhones, iPads,
and Apple Watches. Features like AirDrop and Handoff make sharing effortless.
• Security and Privacy: macOS is built on a UNIX foundation, making it highly secure.
Apple also emphasizes user privacy.
• Performance and Stability: Rarely crashes, optimized for Apple hardware.
• Creative Tools: Popular among designers, video editors, and musicians because of
software like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro.
• Regular Updates: Apple provides free, regular updates that enhance both features
and security.
In short: macOS is like a luxury studio—polished, reliable, and perfect for those who value
creativity and design.
3. Linux – The Power of Freedom
Linux is open-source, meaning anyone can use, modify, and distribute it. It’s the favorite of
programmers, developers, and tech enthusiasts.
• Open Source: Free to use, with countless distributions (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian,
etc.).
• Customization: Users can change almost everything—from the desktop environment
to the kernel itself.
• Security: Less prone to viruses due to strong permissions and frequent updates.
• Performance: Runs efficiently even on older hardware.
• Variety of Interfaces: Desktop environments like GNOME, KDE, and Xfce give users
different looks and feels.
• Community Support: A global community of developers constantly improves Linux.
In short: Linux is like a workshop—flexible, powerful, and open to anyone who wants to
build and experiment.
Comparing the Three
• Windows: Best for general users, gamers, and businesses.
• macOS: Best for creative professionals and Apple users.
• Linux: Best for developers, tech enthusiasts, and those who love customization.
Together, these three operating systems show how technology adapts to different needs—
whether it’s ease of use, creativity, or freedom.
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Part (b): Different Ways to View Files and Folders in File Explorer
Now, let’s step into the everyday world of File Explorer in Windows. Think of File Explorer as
your digital cupboard—a place where all your documents, pictures, music, and videos are
stored. Just like in a real cupboard, you can arrange your belongings in different ways
depending on what you want to see.
Here are the main ways to view files and folders:
1. Extra Large Icons / Large Icons / Medium Icons / Small Icons
• These views show files and folders as icons of different sizes.
• Best for: Pictures, videos, or when you want a quick visual preview.
• Example: Looking at a photo album—you can see thumbnails of each picture.
2. List View
• Displays files in a simple list with small icons.
• Best for: Quick scanning when you don’t need details.
• Example: Like flipping through a list of book titles without reading summaries.
3. Details View
• Shows files with columns like Name, Date Modified, Type, and Size.
• Best for: Sorting and organizing files.
• Example: Perfect for students managing assignments—you can sort by date to find
the latest file.
4. Tiles View
• Displays medium-sized icons with extra information (file type, size).
• Best for: A balance between visuals and details.
5. Content View
• Shows files with a small preview and some details.
• Best for: Documents or text files where you want a sneak peek of the content.
Why These Views Matter
Different views in File Explorer are like different ways of arranging your study table:
• Sometimes you want everything neatly listed (Details).
• Sometimes you want to see the covers of your books (Large Icons).
• Sometimes you just want a quick glance at what’s inside (Content).
By switching views, you make your digital life more organized and efficient.
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Conclusion
Modern operating systems—Windows, macOS, and Linux—are like three different worlds,
each designed to meet the needs of different users. Windows offers universality and
compatibility, macOS offers elegance and creativity, and Linux offers freedom and control.
Together, they show how far technology has come in making computers not just machines,
but companions in work, study, and creativity.
On the other hand, File Explorer reminds us that even in this digital age, organization
matters. Just as we arrange our physical belongings in cupboards and shelves, we arrange
our digital files in different views—icons, lists, details—depending on our needs.
So, whether you’re a student writing assignments, a designer editing videos, or a gamer
exploring virtual worlds, remember this: the operating system is your stage, and File
Explorer is your organizer. Together, they make the computer not just a machine, but a
partner in your journey of learning and creativity.
6. What is the function of the 'Mail Merge' feature in Microsoft Word? Explain by taking
suitable example.
Ans: The Function of Mail Merge in Microsoft Word (Explained Like a Story)
A Different Beginning
Imagine this: You are the class representative, and your teacher gives you a task. She says—
"We need to send out 100 invitation letters to the parents of students for the Annual Day
program. Each letter should have the parent’s name, their child’s name, and roll number.
The content of the letter is the same, but the names and details must be different."
Now, what would you do?
Would you copy-paste the same letter 100 times and then change the names one by one?
That sounds like a nightmare, doesn’t it?
This is exactly where Mail Merge in Microsoft Word comes to the rescue. It’s like your
personal assistant who says, “Don’t worry! I’ll prepare all 100 letters for you in just a few
clicks.”
What is Mail Merge?
Mail Merge is a special feature in Microsoft Word that allows us to create multiple
personalized documents (like letters, invitations, certificates, envelopes, or emails) by
combining two things:
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1. Main Document (Template) – The general content that stays the same for everyone.
2. Data Source – A list that contains variable details (like names, addresses, roll
numbers, phone numbers, etc.).
When these two are merged, Word automatically produces individual copies of the
document with unique details for each recipient.
Example Story – Invitation Letters for Parents
Let’s go back to our Annual Day invitation example.
Main Document (Template Letter)
In Word, you type a simple letter like this:
Dear <Parent Name>,
We are pleased to invite you to the Annual Day function of ourschool.
Your child, <Student Name> (Roll No: <Roll Number>), has been selected
to participate in the cultural program.
Date: 20th October 2025
Venue: School Auditorium
Time: 5:00 PM
We look forward to your presence.
Sincerely,
Principal
Notice the parts in < >. These are not actual names but placeholders where real data will
come from.
2. Data Source (Excel Sheet or Word Table)
You prepare a list of parents in Excel or directly inside Word:
Parent Name
Student Name
Roll Number
Mr. Sharma
Rohan
101
Mrs. Gupta
Anjali
102
Mr. Singh
Arjun
103
3. Merging the Two
With Mail Merge, Microsoft Word takes the template and the data source, and
creates personalized letters:
Letter 1:
Dear Mr. Sharma,
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We are pleased to invite you to the Annual Day function of our
school. Your child, Rohan (Roll No: 101), has been selected...
Letter 2:
Dear Mrs. Gupta,
We are pleased to invite you to the Annual Day function of our
school. Your child, Anjali (Roll No: 102), has been selected...
Letter 3:
Dear Mr. Singh,
We are pleased to invite you to the Annual Day function of our
school. Your child, Arjun (Roll No: 103), has been selected...
And so on, until every parent has their own personalized invitation letter.
Real-Life Uses of Mail Merge
Mail Merge is not just for school letters. It is widely used in offices, businesses, and
institutions. Some practical uses include:
1. Invitation Letters – For weddings, functions, or school events.
2. Certificates – Printing certificates with different student names.
3. Salary Slips – Each employee gets the same format slip but with their own figures.
4. Mailing Labels – Printing address labels on envelopes.
5. Marketing Emails – Sending promotional emails with each customer’s name.
Steps of Mail Merge (Simplified)
Let’s break down the process into easy steps:
1. Open Word and go to the Mailings tab.
2. Select Start Mail Merge → Choose the type (letters, labels, envelopes, or email).
3. Choose Select Recipients → Either create a new list or use an existing Excel sheet.
4. Insert Merge Fields (like Name, Roll No, Address) at the right places in your
template.
5. Click Preview Results to check how the letters will look.
6. Finally, click Finish & Merge → Your personalized letters are ready!
Why is Mail Merge Important?
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• Saves Time – Instead of writing 100 letters, you prepare just one template and one
list.
• Avoids Mistakes – Reduces human errors like typing the wrong name or roll number.
• Looks Professional – Each document is neatly personalized.
• Versatile – Works for letters, emails, labels, envelopes, and even certificates.
Mail Merge is Like a Master Chef
Think of it like cooking in bulk. Suppose you are a chef making 100 plates of biryani.
• The Main Document is the big pot of biryani (the base recipe is the same).
• The Data Source is the different names written on each plate.
• When you serve, each person gets the same biryani but with their own name on the
plate.
That’s exactly what Mail Merge does—it takes one base and adds personalization for each
recipient.
Final Words
So, to answer the question:
The function of the Mail Merge feature in Microsoft Word is to create multiple
personalized documents (like letters, invitations, or labels) by combining a common
template with a list of variable details such as names, addresses, or roll numbers.
It is like a magical shortcut that saves time, ensures accuracy, and makes your work look
professional.
In simple terms: One letter + One list = Many personalized letters.
And just like that, you (as the class representative) impress your teacher by delivering 100
unique invitation letters in minutes—thanks to Mail Merge!
SECTION-D
7. Explain Normal view, Slide Sorter view, and Slide Show view of a presentation. Discuss
the uses of each view.
Ans: A Fresh Beginning
Imagine you are preparing for an important class presentation. You’ve gathered your ideas,
chosen your images, and now you open PowerPoint. The moment the software loads,
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you’re not just staring at a blank screen—you’re stepping into a workspace designed to help
you create, organize, and finally deliver your story.
But here’s the secret: PowerPoint doesn’t give you just one way to look at your slides. It
gives you different “views,” each like a different lens on the same presentation. Some views
help you create, some help you organize, and some help you perform. Among these, three
stand out as the most important: Normal View, Slide Sorter View, and Slide Show View.
Let’s walk through each of these views as if we’re exploring three different stages of a
journey: the workshop, the planning table, and the grand stage.
1. Normal View – The Workshop of Creation
Normal View is the default view you see when you first open PowerPoint. Think of it as your
workshop, where all the crafting and building of slides happens.
Features of Normal View
• Slide Pane (Center): Shows the current slide you are working on. This is your canvas
where you add text, images, charts, and animations.
• Thumbnails Pane (Left): Displays miniature versions of all your slides in sequence.
You can click any thumbnail to jump to that slide.
• Notes Pane (Bottom): A space to write speaker notes that only you can see during
the presentation.
Uses of Normal View
• Creating Content: This is where you type your text, insert pictures, and design
layouts.
• Editing Slides: You can make changes to fonts, colors, and backgrounds.
• Adding Notes: Perfect for preparing cues or reminders for your speech.
• Navigating Easily: The thumbnails on the left let you move quickly between slides.
Analogy: Imagine you are an artist in a studio. The big canvas in front of you is the current
slide, the sketches pinned on the wall are the thumbnails, and the notebook on your desk is
the notes pane. Everything you need to create is right here.
2. Slide Sorter View – The Planning Table
Once you’ve created your slides, the next challenge is arranging them in the right order.
That’s where Slide Sorter View comes in. It’s like laying out all your slides on a big table so
you can see the entire presentation at once.
Features of Slide Sorter View
• Thumbnail Display: All slides appear as small thumbnails arranged in rows.
• Drag-and-Drop: You can click and drag slides to reorder them.
• Sections: You can group slides into sections for better organization.
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• Zoom Control: Adjust the zoom to see more or fewer slides at once.
Uses of Slide Sorter View
• Reordering Slides: If you feel Slide 5 should come before Slide 3, just drag it.
• Checking Flow: You can see if your story flows logically from beginning to end.
• Deleting or Duplicating Slides: Easy to remove unnecessary slides or copy important
ones.
• Timing and Transitions: You can apply transitions to multiple slides at once.
Analogy: Think of Slide Sorter View as a director arranging scenes of a movie. Instead of
looking at one scene at a time, you spread out all the scenes on a storyboard to check the
sequence and rhythm of the story.
3. Slide Show View – The Grand Stage
Finally, after creating and arranging, comes the moment of truth: presenting. Slide Show
View is the mode where your slides take over the entire screen, just as your audience will
see them.
Features of Slide Show View
• Full-Screen Display: Slides appear one at a time, covering the entire screen.
• Navigation Tools: Use arrow keys, mouse clicks, or presenter remotes to move
forward or backward.
• Animations and Transitions: All effects play exactly as you designed them.
• Presenter View (Optional): If you have two screens, one shows the slides for the
audience, while the other shows your notes and upcoming slides for you.
Uses of Slide Show View
• Delivering the Presentation: This is the actual performance mode.
• Practicing: You can rehearse your timing, check animations, and refine delivery.
• Audience Engagement: The full-screen mode removes distractions, focusing
attention on your message.
Analogy: Slide Show View is like stepping onto a stage in front of an audience. The lights
dim, the curtain rises, and all eyes are on your slides. This is where your preparation pays
off.
Comparing the Three Views
To make it crystal clear, let’s compare them side by side:
View
Purpose
Best For
Analogy
Normal
View
Creating and editing
slides
Adding text, images, notes
Artist’s workshop
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Slide Sorter
View
Organizing and
sequencing slides
Reordering, checking flow,
transitions
Director’s
storyboard table
Slide Show
View
Presenting to the
audience
Delivering and rehearsing
the presentation
Performer on stage
Why These Views Matter
Each view is like a different stage in the life of a presentation:
• Normal View helps you build.
• Slide Sorter View helps you organize.
• Slide Show View helps you perform.
Skipping any of these would be like skipping a step in cooking: you can’t serve a dish without
preparing the ingredients, arranging them, and finally presenting it beautifully.
A Walkthrough Example
Let’s say you’re preparing a presentation on “The Importance of Renewable Energy.”
1. In Normal View:
o You create slides with titles like “Solar Power,” “Wind Energy,” and
“Hydropower.”
o You add images of solar panels and write notes like “Explain how solar cells
work.”
2. In Slide Sorter View:
o You realize “Hydropower” should come before “Wind Energy” for better
flow.
o You drag the slides to rearrange them.
o You apply the same transition effect to all slides for consistency.
3. In Slide Show View:
o You practice your delivery, clicking through slides as if in front of an audience.
o You check that animations appear at the right time.
o Finally, you present confidently, knowing your slides are in perfect order.
Conclusion
Normal View, Slide Sorter View, and Slide Show View are not just technical features—they
are stages in the storytelling journey of a presentation. Normal View is where ideas are born
and shaped. Slide Sorter View is where those ideas are arranged into a logical sequence.
Slide Show View is where the story comes alive before an audience.
Together, they transform a simple set of slides into a powerful tool of communication. By
mastering these views, you don’t just learn PowerPoint—you learn how to think like a
creator, a planner, and a performer.
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So, the next time you open PowerPoint, remember: you’re not just clicking through menus.
You’re stepping into a studio, a planning room, and a stage—all in one. And each view is
there to help you shine.
8. Define the following in MS-Excel:
(a) Relative and Absolute cell references.
(b) Sorting of data in ascending or descending order.
Ans: A Fresh Beginning
Imagine you are a student preparing for an exam. Your teacher gives you a huge notebook
full of numbers, marks, and details of all the students in your class. She asks you to calculate
totals, averages, and arrange the list of students in order.
Now, doing this manually would take hours, maybe even days. But when you have MS-Excel,
this task becomes as easy as a few clicks. However, to truly use Excel like a smart assistant,
you must understand two very important concepts:
1. Relative and Absolute Cell References
2. Sorting Data in Ascending or Descending Order
Let’s learn these concepts in the most simple way possible.
(a) Relative and Absolute Cell References
Think of Excel as a large city, and every cell is like a house. Each house has its unique
address—for example, B2, C3, A5. When we write a formula in Excel, we are telling Excel to
“go to that house and bring the value.”
But the real magic happens when we copy formulas across multiple cells. That’s where
Relative and Absolute references step in.
1. Relative Cell Reference
Definition:
A relative reference means the cell reference changes automatically when you copy the
formula to another cell.
Story Example:
Suppose you are in House B2, and you say, “Go one house to the left and add its value.” If
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you move down to House B3, Excel will still follow your instruction: “Go one house to the
left from here.”
In Excel terms:
• If you type =A2+10 in B2, and copy it to B3, it will become =A3+10.
• The formula “adjusts” itself based on where it moves.
Diagram for Relative Reference:
A
B
5
=A1+10 → 15
6
=A2+10 → 16
7
=A3+10 → 17
Here, the formula in Column B keeps changing according to the row—it’s “relative.”
2. Absolute Cell Reference
Definition:
An absolute reference means the cell reference does not change when you copy the
formula. You “lock” the cell address by using the $ sign (like $A$1).
Story Example:
Imagine you always want to buy chocolates from the shop at House A1, no matter where
you are in the city. Even if you move to House B2, B3, or Z100, you’ll always run back to the
shop at A1.
In Excel terms:
• If you type =$A$1+10 in B2, and copy it to B3, it will still remain =$A$1+10.
• The reference is “locked.”
Diagram for Absolute Reference:
A
B
5
=$A$1+10 → 15
6
=$A$1+10 → 15
7
=$A$1+10 → 15
Here, no matter how many times you copy, the formula always uses A1.
Quick Difference Between Relative and Absolute
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Feature
Relative Reference
(A1)
Absolute Reference ($A$1)
Changes when
copied?
Yes
No
Flexible or Fixed?
Flexible
Fixed
Useful for…
Repeated calculations
Constant values like tax rates, interest,
etc.
Why Are They Important?
• Relative references save time when doing the same type of calculation for many
rows.
• Absolute references are useful when you always want to use a fixed number or cell
(like GST rate, marks weightage, interest rate, etc.).
Together, they make Excel extremely powerful and smart.
(b) Sorting Data in Ascending or Descending Order
Now let’s move to the second part. Sorting is like arranging books on a shelf—either from
smallest to largest (ascending) or largest to smallest (descending).
Definition:
Sorting in Excel means rearranging data in a particular order—alphabetical (A–Z or Z–A),
numerical (smallest to largest or largest to smallest), or even by date.
1. Ascending Order
• Smallest to Largest (numbers).
• A to Z (text).
• Oldest to Newest (dates).
Story Example:
Think of your class roll numbers. If the teacher wants the attendance register arranged from
Roll No. 1 to Roll No. 50, she’s asking you to sort in ascending order.
Diagram Example (Ascending):
Name
Marks
Riya
45
Arjun
55
Meena
70
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Kabir
80
Sorted in ascending order by Marks:
Name
Marks
Riya
45
Arjun
55
Meena
70
Kabir
80
2. Descending Order
• Largest to Smallest (numbers).
• Z to A (text).
• Newest to Oldest (dates).
Story Example:
Now imagine the teacher wants to reward the toppers. She’ll ask you to sort the marks from
highest to lowest.
Diagram Example (Descending):
Name
Marks
Kabir
80
Meena
70
Arjun
55
Riya
45
Steps to Sort Data in Excel
1. Select the column or range of data.
2. Go to the Data tab.
3. Choose Sort A to Z (Ascending) or Sort Z to A (Descending).
That’s it—Excel arranges the data instantly!
Why Is Sorting Useful?
• Helps teachers arrange marks list easily.
• Businesses can arrange sales records (highest to lowest).
• Students can organize expenses from smallest to biggest.
• Saves time and brings clarity in analyzing data.
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Wrapping Up the Story
So, let’s quickly remember our journey:
• Relative references are like giving flexible directions—“go one step left from here.”
• Absolute references are like giving fixed directions—“always go to House A1.”
• Sorting is like arranging books, clothes, or roll numbers—either from smallest to
largest (ascending) or largest to smallest (descending).
Excel is not just a boring table software—it’s like a magical city where numbers dance
according to your instructions. Once you understand these two concepts, you can calculate
and arrange data like a pro!
“This paper has been carefully prepared for educational purposes. If you notice any mistakes or
have suggestions, feel free to share your feedback.”
