IB Computer Science Topics: Full List

IB Computer Science (first assessment 2027) splits its topics into two themes: concepts of computer science (Theme A) and computational thinking and problem-solving (Theme B). Theme A topics focus on how computing systems work, while Theme B topics look at how to use computing systems to solve real-world problems.

This article includes an official and complete breakdown of Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) IB Computer Science. We’ve summarised the subject content to show you what you need to know, and how you can use topic lists for effective revision.

Key Takeaways

• IB Computer Science topics are split across two themes: Theme A (concepts of computer science) and Theme B (computational thinking and problem-solving)

• SL and HL share the same topics, but HL has one additional topic – abstract data types – and additional questions on object-oriented programming

• Use topic lists to create a revision plan and organise your notes

Why It's Important to Know Your Exam Board

Unlike many other qualifications, IB Computer Science is not offered by different exam boards; instead, all students follow the same IB Diploma Programme curriculum.

Though you don’t need to worry about different exam boards, you should still be familiar with how your course content is organised. Knowing your exact IB Computer Science topics means you can create a focused revision plan that avoids content you won’t be tested on. You also won’t be caught out by unexpected questions in the exam.

IB Computer Science Topics

IB Computer Science consists of two themes, both of which are divided into sub-themes:

Theme A: Concepts of computer science

A.1 Computer fundamentals – basic computer system operations
A.2 Networks – different types of connected computers
A.3 Databases – organised data collections
A.4 Machine learning – a field of study in artificial intelligence

Theme B: Computational thinking and problem-solving

B.1 Computational thinking – problem-solving techniques
B.2 Programming –  creating sequences of instructions
B.3 Object-oriented programming (OOP) – a software design approach that organises code around objects
B.4 Abstract data types (HL only) – a mathematical model for data types

You’ll also need to learn a case study, develop a computational solution and work on a collaborative sciences project. For more information, see the subject brief (opens in a new tab). 

The table below shows which themes and content come up in each assessment: 

How to Use Topic Lists for Revision

Create a revision plan

Print or write out the topics for each theme into a checklist. Use the traffic light system (opens in a new tab) to prioritise weaker areas, and tick each area off as you revise. Seeing progress is really motivating, and it stops you from accidentally skipping anything important.

Focus on key concepts

The IB Computer Science topic list contains subject-specific terminology and concepts, including networks, machine learning and OOP. One of the proven tactics for revising IB Computer Science is to focus on understanding each key concept.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to revise all IB Computer Science topics for the exam?

Yes, as all sub-themes for Theme A and Theme B are potential topics for their respective papers.

How do I know which topics I struggle with most?

Complete past paper questions and check how you did against the mark scheme. You can then use the traffic light system to prioritise revising whichever areas you scored lowest in.

You could also try using the Feynman Technique, which allows you to practise explaining concepts to people who are unfamiliar with IB Computer Science. If you’re struggling to explain a concept in your own words or to get across an idea, you should focus on filling in the gaps in your knowledge and understanding of that concept first.

Do all topics come up in every exam paper?

No. Paper 1 covers Theme A and the case study, and Paper 2 is on Theme B.

The practical assessment requires you to use the concepts, skills and tools you’ve acquired throughout the course.

Final Thoughts

Using topic lists to structure your IB Computer Science revision means you'll know exactly what to study, and how to allocate your time between each area.

Bookmark or print this page, and use it as your roadmap. Work through each topic, tick it off as you go, practise answering past paper questions, and persevere to improve your knowledge and skills for the exams.

References

• How to Use the Traffic Light System to Improve Your Marks (opens in a new tab)

• IB Computer Science (opens in a new tab)