Edexcel IGCSE ICT specification (4IT1)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE ICT 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 Edexcel IGCSE ICT 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 IGCSE ICT (4IT1) 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
The Edexcel International GCSE in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equips students with essential knowledge and practical skills to succeed in an increasingly digital world. The course introduces learners to how digital technologies affect individuals, organisations, and society. Students explore emerging technologies, responsible use of ICT, and the application of digital tools across a variety of contexts. The qualification promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and safe digital practice, while supporting future progression to A Level ICT, Computing, or related vocational pathways:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
Topic 1: Digital Devices
- Types of devices (e.g. PCs, tablets, smartphones, consoles, navigation aids).
- Key features: portability, performance, connectivity, media support.
- System vs application software; licensing; updates.
- Peripherals: input/output/storage devices; RAM/ROM; processors.
- Configuring ICT systems for specific needs including accessibility.
Topic 2: Connectivity
- Digital communication types: satellite, wired, wireless (e.g. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
- Factors: speed, volume, bandwidth, latency, mobile/cellular networks.
- Network requirements: IP/MAC, routers, browsers, ISPs, filters.
- Benefits of LANs and client-server models.
- Network security: log-ins, encryption, VPNs, backups.
Topic 3: Operating Online
- Risks: malware, phishing, data theft; protection methods.
- Impact on individuals: work practices, health, access, social effects.
- Organisational and societal impacts: global communication, inequality.
- Online communities: VLEs, forums, wikis, blogs, cyber safety.
- Legal issues: data protection, copyright, monitoring, sustainability.
Topic 4: Online Goods and Services
- Services: e-commerce, banking, e-learning, entertainment, auctions.
- Impacts on lifestyle, behaviour, business practices.
- Transactional data, cookies, marketing, personalisation.
- Online vs local services; cloud vs local software.
Topic 5: Applying ICT
- Effective use of software: word processing, databases, spreadsheets, presentations, web design, graphics.
- Using and formatting data (text, images, numbers).
- Producing purpose-fit digital outputs.
- Reviewing, evaluating, and improving outcomes.
Topic 6: Software Skills
- Specific functional skills:
- Word processing: mail merge, layout, integration.
- Database: input/search/sort/query, reports.
- Spreadsheet: formulae, functions (e.g. IF, VLOOKUP), charts.
- Web authoring: templates, formatting, HTML.
- Presentation: master slides, effects, printing.
- Graphics: creating/editing bitmap/vector images.
- File management: saving, naming, structuring:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Written Paper (4IT1/01)
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes; Marks: 100; Weighting: 50%
- Format: Mix of multiple-choice, short-answer and long-answer questions.
- Content assessed: Topics 1–4 (Digital Devices, Connectivity, Operating Online, Online Goods & Services).
Paper 2: Practical Paper (4IT1/02)
- Duration: 3 hours (includes printing time); Marks: 100; Weighting: 50%
- Format: Scenario-based tasks using software applications.
- Content assessed: Topics 1–6 (including Applying ICT and Software Skills).
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Knowledge and understanding – 25–27%
- AO2: Application of knowledge and ICT skills – 46–52%
- AO3: Analysis and evaluation – 24–26%
Grading
- Total qualification mark = 200; final grade 9–1.
- First certification: 2019; all units taken at end of course (linear).
- Practical paper scheduled within a defined June window:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE ICT 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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