OCR AS Computer Science specification (H046)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your OCR AS Computer 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 OCR AS Computer 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 OCR AS Computer Science (H046) 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 OCR specification PDF.
Specification overview
This AS Level Computer Science course (OCR) introduces learners to fundamental principles and real-world applications of computing. It develops an understanding of systems, problem solving, and programming, encouraging students to analyse, abstract, and innovate. The specification supports logical and mathematical thinking, enabling learners to understand how digital technologies shape modern society, while providing strong preparation for higher education or careers in computing and related fields.Subject content breakdown
Component 01: Computing Principles
- Processor structure: ALU, registers, buses, fetch-decode-execute cycle
- Processor types: CISC, RISC, multicore and parallel systems
- Input/output/storage: RAM, ROM, flash, magnetic, virtual storage
- Operating systems: memory management, interrupts, scheduling
- Software: applications, utilities, open/closed source, translators
- Programming: procedural techniques, file and string handling
- Assembly language using Little Man Computer
- Data exchange: databases, networks, web technologies, compression
- Data representation: binary, hexadecimal, floating point, character sets
- Data structures: arrays, stacks, queues, records, tuples
- Boolean algebra: expressions, K-maps, truth tables, logic diagrams
- Legal/ethical/cultural issues: legislation, AI, surveillance, piracy
Component 02: Algorithms and Problem Solving
- Computational thinking: abstraction, decomposition, logic
- Procedural thinking: inputs, outputs, steps and sub-procedures
- Problem solving strategies and software methodologies
- Programming constructs and modularity
- IDE use and debugging
- Algorithms: bubble/insertion sort, binary/linear search
- Data manipulation with queues and stacks
- Algorithm analysis and comparison
Assessment structure
Component 01: Computing Principles
- Written exam: 1 hour 15 minutes
- 70 marks
- 50% of AS Level
- Includes short, longer, and extended response questions
- Assesses understanding of hardware, software, programming, data, ethics
Component 02: Algorithms and Problem Solving
- Written exam: 1 hour 15 minutes
- 70 marks
- 50% of AS Level
- Mix of practical, logic-based, and evaluative questions
- Synoptic assessment drawing on content from Component 01
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Knowledge and understanding of computing principles
- AO2: Application to analyse computational problems
- AO3: Design and evaluate problem-solving programs
Other Notes
- Linear qualification with no coursework
- No calculators allowed in either exam
- 10% of assessment includes Level 2+ mathematical content (e.g. Boolean logic)
- AS Level graded A–E, results based on combined paper marks
Key tips for success
Doing well in your OCR AS Computer 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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