SQA Advanced Higher Computing Science specification (X816 77)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your SQA Advanced Higher Computing Science exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official SQA Advanced Higher Computing Science specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official SQA Advanced Higher Computing Science (X816 77) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official SQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Advanced Higher Computing Science course provides a rigorous and broad exploration of computing technologies through the subject alias Computing Science. It enables learners to develop advanced programming, design, and problem-solving skills and to apply computational thinking across software, database and web development contexts. The course encourages independent learning, research, and critical evaluation of complex computing issues. Candidates learn to understand and communicate advanced computing concepts clearly and to evaluate the social, environmental, and ethical impact of computing technologies. This prepares them for further academic study or careers in the computing sector.Subject content breakdown
Software design and development
- Apply object-oriented programming: classes, objects, inheritance, encapsulation, polymorphism
- Implement data structures: 1-D arrays, 2-D arrays, records, arrays of records, linked lists
- Use standard algorithms: binary search, bubble sort, insertion sort
- Read and write SQL within code; connect programs to databases
- Design using UML: structure diagrams, class diagrams, pseudocode
- Evaluate for maintainability, usability, robustness, and efficiency
Database design and development
- Design relational databases with entity-relationship diagrams and data dictionaries
- Use SQL: DDL (CREATE, DROP), DML (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE), advanced clauses (HAVING, subqueries)
- Implement and validate data types, relationships, and constraints
- Use logical operators: IN, NOT, BETWEEN, EXISTS
- Evaluate solutions for accuracy and purpose
Web design and development
- Design wireframes and low-fidelity prototypes with layout, navigation, and consistency
- Implement websites using HTML, CSS (including responsive media queries), and PHP
- Process form data securely and connect to databases via PHP
- Use sessions and server-side scripting
- Evaluate websites for usability and client-side interaction
Integration
- Apply combined skills across database and web contexts, e.g. designing HTML forms that process SQL queries
- Design and test full-stack solutions integrating server-side processes and data handling
Testing and Evaluation (all areas)
- Conduct integrative, component, final and end-user testing
- Evaluate for fitness for purpose, robustness, and maintainability
Assessment structure
Question Paper
- 55 marks, 2 hours
- Section 1: Software design and development (35 marks, mandatory)
- Section 2 or 3: choose one from Database design and development or Web design and development (20 marks each)
- Mix of short and extended questions, including problem solving, code writing, and system design
- Questions include integrated contexts requiring skills across different areas
Project
- 80 marks, completed independently
- Based on one area (software, database, or web) and must integrate with another
- Stages assessed: analysis (10), design (20), implementation (30), testing (15), evaluation (5)
- Carried out under some supervision, no time limit but suggested 40 hours
Grading
- Total marks from question paper and project used to determine grade (A–D)
Key tips for success
Doing well in your SQA Advanced Higher Computing Science isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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