Edexcel GCSE Computer Science specification (1CP2)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel GCSE 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.
Examiner-written revision resources that improve your grades 2x
- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
- Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel GCSE 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 Edexcel GCSE Computer Science (1CP2) 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 Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
This GCSE Computer Science specification is designed to inspire and engage students by recognising the evolving nature of the subject and its foundational principles. The qualification provides students with a strong grounding in computational thinking, algorithms, data representation, and the use of programming languages. It supports a wide range of teaching approaches by allowing flexibility in programming language choice (Python, VB.NET or C#), and is accessible to learners of all abilities. The aim is to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for progression to A-level, further education or employment. The specification places emphasis on clarity in exam structure and supports learning through dedicated resources, training, and professional development.Subject content breakdown
3.1 Fundamentals of algorithms
- Understand algorithms, decomposition, abstraction
- Represent algorithms via pseudo-code, code or flowcharts
- Analyse algorithm purpose using trace tables
- Compare time efficiency of algorithms
- Understand and contrast linear vs binary search
- Understand and compare merge sort vs bubble sort
3.2 Programming
- Understand and use data types: integer, real, Boolean, character, string
- Use programming constructs: variables, constants, assignment, iteration, selection, subroutines
- Apply arithmetic, relational and Boolean operations
- Use data structures: 1D/2D arrays, records
- Handle input/output, string manipulation, random number generation
- Develop structured programs using subroutines with parameters, return values, and local variables
- Validate/authenticate inputs; understand test data types and error types
3.3 Fundamentals of data representation
- Use binary, decimal and hexadecimal number bases
- Convert between bases and perform binary arithmetic and shifts
- Understand character encoding (ASCII, Unicode)
- Represent images (pixels, colour depth, bitmap size) and sound (sampling rate, resolution)
- Understand data compression (Huffman coding, RLE) and calculate file sizes
3.4 Computer systems
- Understand hardware vs software, Boolean logic (truth tables, logic gates, expressions)
- Distinguish system vs application software; explain operating system roles
- Explain low-level vs high-level languages and translators (interpreter, compiler, assembler)
- Understand Von Neumann architecture and components (CPU, memory, buses)
- Compare RAM, ROM, cache, registers, secondary storage types, and cloud storage
- Know embedded vs non-embedded systems
3.5 Fundamentals of computer networks
- Define networks (PAN, LAN, WAN) and wired/wireless differences
- Describe star and bus topologies
- Explain network protocols (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, TCP/IP suite, email protocols)
- Understand network security methods (encryption, firewalls, authentication)
- Explain TCP/IP model and protocol layers
3.6 Cyber security
- Define cyber security and key threats (malware, social engineering, phishing, etc.)
- Explain penetration testing (internal/external)
- Identify security measures (biometrics, CAPTCHA, updates)
3.7 Relational databases and SQL
- Understand tables, records, fields, primary/foreign keys
- Write SQL commands: SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE with WHERE, ORDER BY
3.8 Ethical, legal and environmental impacts
- Discuss impacts of digital tech on society (privacy, security, hacking, autonomous tech)
- Understand societal and governmental perspectives on digital surveillance and data access
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Computational thinking and programming skills
- Assesses content from sections 3.1 and 3.2
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 90 marks
- 50% of GCSE
- Question types: multiple choice, short and long answers focused on programming, algorithms, and computational thinking
Paper 2: Computing concepts
- Assesses content from sections 3.3 to 3.8
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 90 marks
- 50% of GCSE
- Question types: multiple choice, short and long answers, extended responses including SQL programming and theoretical concepts
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel GCSE 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.
Share this article