0984
Types of Software
Software · 4 question types
Exam Frequency Analysis
Past paper frequency (2018 to 2024)
This topic accounts for approximately 3% of your exam marks.
stable
Rare
Stable3%
OS functions and utility software appear occasionally as short definition/example questions.
Application software is software the user chooses to install and run to perform a particular task. Each "app" is designed for one job.
Some common categories:
| Category | Examples (generic, not brand names) |
|---|---|
| Productivity | Word processor, spreadsheet, presentation software, database manager |
| Communication | Email client, web browser, instant messaging app, video-call software |
| Creative | Photo editor, video editor, audio editor, 3D modelling software |
| Entertainment | Video games, media player, streaming app |
| Educational | Maths drill program, language-learning app, encyclopedia |
| Web | Web browser (e.g. for online services), online office tools |
System vs application: a quick test
| Question | If yes... |
|---|---|
| Is it essential to start the computer or to manage its hardware? | System software |
| Does the user choose to install it specifically to do a particular task? | Application software |
| Is its main job to maintain, optimise or protect the computer? | System software (utility) |
| Does it create or edit user content? | Application software |
