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Computer Fundamentals and History PYQs – Computer, SSC & Railway

32 Computer Fundamentals and History (Computer) questions asked in recent SSC and Railway exams, newest first, with exam, date & shift, answers and solutions.

📚 32 questionsSSC 0 · Railway 32
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 20 June 2026 Shift 2 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q1. A computer’s characteristic of Accuracy means it can produce precise and correct results as long as the ___________________________ is/are correct.

  1. (a) speed of the processor
  2. (b) input data and instructions
  3. (c) size of the system’s RAM
  4. (d) resolution of the display screen
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) input data and instructions

Topic: Computer Fundamentals - Accuracy
Accuracyis a fundamental characteristic of computers that refers to their ability to produce error-free and precise results.
Key Point: Computer accuracy depends on the quality ofinput data and instructionsprovided to it.
Principle:GIGO (Garbage In, Garbage Out)- If input is correct, output will be accurate; if input is wrong, output will be wrong.
Speed, RAM size, and display resolution do not affect the correctness of results.
Answer: Option 2 → input data and instructions
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 18 June 2026 Shift 1 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q2. Which statement is True or False regarding a computer's characteristics?(i) Accuracy guarantees zero errors in output, even with flawed input.(ii) No IQ means a computer cannot perform tasks without explicit instructions from the user or programmer.

  1. (a) (i) False, (ii) True
  2. (b) (i) True, (ii) False
  3. (c) (i) True, (ii) True
  4. (d) (i) False, (ii) False
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) (i) False, (ii) True

Computer Characteristics Analysis
Statement (i): Accuracy guarantees zero errors in output, even with flawed input
This isFalse.
Accuracy means computer processes data correctly as per instructions.
However, principle:GIGO (Garbage In, Garbage Out)
If input is flawed/incorrect, output will also be incorrect.
Accuracy ≠ Intelligence to detect wrong input.
Statement (ii): No IQ means computer cannot perform tasks without explicit instructions
This isTrue.
Computer haszero IQ (Intelligence Quotient).
It cannot think, decide, or work independently.
Requires step-by-step instructions (program) from user/programmer.
Answer: Option 1 → (i) False, (ii) True

Q3. Which statement is True or False about the first and second generations of computers?(i) The First Generation used Vacuum Tubes, which were bulky and heat-generating.(ii) The Transistor, which defined the Second Generation, made computers larger, slower, and more expensive.

  1. (a) (i) True, (ii) True
  2. (b) (i) False, (ii) False
  3. (c) (i) False, (ii) True
  4. (d) (i) True, (ii) False
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) (i) True, (ii) False

Computer Generations - Key Facts:
Statement (i):First Generation (1940s-1950s)
UsedVacuum Tubesas main component
Characteristics: Bulky, generated excessive heat, consumed high power
Statement (i) is TRUE ✓
Statement (ii):Second Generation (1950s-1960s)
UsedTransistorsreplacing vacuum tubes
Characteristics: Smaller size, faster speed, less heat, lower cost
Transistors made computerssmaller, faster, and cheaper
Statement (ii) is FALSE ✗(opposite is true)
Answer: Option 4 → (i) True, (ii) False
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 17 June 2026 Shift 1 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q4. The statement "A computer can work tirelessly and consistently for long periods without losing concentration" represents which characteristics of the computer?

  1. (a) Diligence
  2. (b) Speed
  3. (c) Accuracy
  4. (d) Versatility
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Diligence

Topic:Characteristics of Computer
Diligence:Ability to work continuously without fatigue, boredom, or loss of concentration.
Speed:Performs millions of operations per second.
Accuracy:Produces error-free results if input is correct.
Versatility:Can perform multiple different tasks.
The statement describes tireless and consistent work without losing concentration.
Answer: Option 1 → Diligence

Q5. As computer generations progressed, which of the following has been a trend that is generally true?

  1. (a) Computers stopped using electricity
  2. (b) Computers became smaller and faster
  3. (c) Computers became larger and slower
  4. (d) Computers lost memory capacity
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Computers became smaller and faster

Topic: Computer Generations
Evolution Trend:
1st Gen (1940s): Vacuum tubes - room-sized, slow
2nd Gen (1950s): Transistors - smaller, faster
3rd Gen (1960s): ICs - compact, more efficient
4th Gen (1970s): Microprocessors - personal computers
5th Gen (Present): AI, quantum - ultra-fast, portable
Key Trend:Size ↓, Speed ↑, Memory ↑, Cost ↓
Answer: Option 2 → Computers became smaller and faster
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 15 June 2026 Shift 1 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q6. Which characteristic enables a computer to start and complete tasks automatically without human intervention once programmed?

  1. (a) Accuracy
  2. (b) Portability
  3. (c) Automation
  4. (d) Diligence
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Automation

Computer Characteristics
Automation:Ability to perform tasks automatically
without human intervention once programmed.
Other options:
Accuracy → Error-free calculations
Portability → Easy to carry/move
Diligence → Work without fatigue
Answer: Option 3 → Automation

Q7. Which computer application enables real-time inventory tracking using automated identification?

  1. (a) OCR-based text editing
  2. (b) Presentation software
  3. (c) RFID-driven supply chain systems
  4. (d) Email-based notification
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) RFID-driven supply chain systems

Real-time Inventory Tracking
Requirement: Automated identification + real-time tracking
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)
Uses radio waves to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects
Enables instant inventory updates without manual scanning
Widely used in supply chain and warehouse management
Other options:
OCR - Text recognition, not inventory tracking
Presentation software - For creating slides
Email - Communication tool, not tracking system
Answer: Option 3 → RFID-driven supply chain systems
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 14 June 2026 Shift 1 · History of computers and pioneers

Q8. Which computing pioneer is credited with the concept of the "stored program architecture" (where both program instructions and data are held in the same memory), a design that forms the basis of nearly all modern computers?

  1. (a) Alan Turing
  2. (b) Charles Babbage
  3. (c) John von Neumann
  4. (d) Blaise Pascal
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) John von Neumann

Topic: Computer Architecture History
Stored Program Concept:Instructions and data stored in same memory.
John von Neumann (1945):Proposed von Neumann architecture in EDVAC report.
Key Feature:Single memory for both program and data, sequential execution.
Other Pioneers:
• Alan Turing: Theoretical computing, Turing machine
• Charles Babbage: Analytical Engine (mechanical)
• Blaise Pascal: Pascaline (mechanical calculator)
Answer: Option 3 → John von Neumann
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 14 June 2026 Shift 2 · History of computers and pioneers

Q9. Which of the following machines was designed by Charles Babbage?

  1. (a) Atanasoff–Berry Computer
  2. (b) UNIVAC
  3. (c) Analytical Engine
  4. (d) ENIAC
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Analytical Engine

Topic: History of Computers
Charles Babbage(1791-1871) is known as the 'Father of Computers'.
He designed theAnalytical Enginein 1837, the first general-purpose mechanical computer.
Other machines: ABC (Atanasoff), UNIVAC & ENIAC (1940s-50s electronic computers).
Answer: Option 3 → Analytical Engine
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 13 June 2026 Shift 2 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q10. A computer lab server handles login requests from many students at the same time without confusion. Which characteristic does this scenario mainly highlight?

  1. (a) Lack of memory
  2. (b) Versatility only
  3. (c) Multitasking and reliability
  4. (d) Portability
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Multitasking and reliability

Topic: Computer Characteristics
Scenario Analysis:
Server handles multiple login requests simultaneously
No confusion = processes run without errors
Key Characteristics:
Multitasking:Handling many requests at same time
Reliability:Working without confusion/errors
Other options don't fit:
Memory/Versatility/Portability not relevant here
Answer: Option 3 → Multitasking and reliability

Q11. In which field are computers used for tasks like weather forecasting, simulation, and research?

  1. (a) Entertainment
  2. (b) Agriculture
  3. (c) Sports Training
  4. (d) Space and Meteorology
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Space and Meteorology

Topic: Computer Applications
Weather forecasting requires complex atmospheric modeling and data analysis.
Simulation and research involve processing vast amounts of scientific data.
Space exploration and meteorology heavily rely on supercomputers for predictions.
Key Applications:
• Weather prediction models and climate simulation
• Satellite data processing for meteorological analysis
• Space mission calculations and trajectory planning
Answer: Option 4 → Space and Meteorology

Q12. Which computer application category is most crucial for designing complex physical objects like cars, buildings, and machinery before they are built?

  1. (a) Presentation Software
  2. (b) Data Management Systems
  3. (c) Simulation Software
  4. (d) Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

Topic: Computer Applications
Computer-Aided Design (CAD)is specialized software used for creating precise 2D/3D models of physical objects.
Key applications: Architecture (buildings), Automotive (cars), Mechanical engineering (machinery), Product design.
CAD allows engineers and designers to visualize, test, and modify designs digitally before physical construction.
Other options: Presentation software (slides), Data management (databases), Simulation (testing scenarios) - not for design creation.
Answer: Option 4 → Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 8 May 2026 Shift 2 · History of computers and pioneers

Q13. Which of the following was the first electro-mechanical computer?

  1. (a) EDVAC
  2. (b) Mark I
  3. (c) UNIVAC
  4. (d) ENIAC
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Mark I

Topic:History of Computers
Mark I (IBM ASCC)was the first electro-mechanical computer.
Developed by Howard Aiken and IBM in 1944.
Used electro-mechanical relays and switches.
Other Options:
ENIAC (1945) - First electronic computer (vacuum tubes)
EDVAC (1949) - Electronic stored-program computer
UNIVAC (1951) - First commercial computer
Answer: Option 2 → Mark I

Q14. Movie studios use powerful computers to create special effects and animations. This is an application of computers in:

  1. (a) Accounting
  2. (b) Entertainment
  3. (c) Banking
  4. (d) Scientific research only
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Entertainment

Topic:Computer Applications
Movie studios use computers for special effects and animations.
This falls underEntertainment Industryapplications.
Other entertainment uses: video games, music production, digital art.
Answer: Option 2 → Entertainment
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 2 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q15. Which of the following characteristics represents the ability of a computer to work continuously without fatigue?

  1. (a) Diligence
  2. (b) Accuracy
  3. (c) Versatility
  4. (d) Speed
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Diligence

Computer Characteristics
Diligence:Ability to work continuously without fatigue, boredom, or loss of concentration.
Accuracy:Performs calculations with high precision.
Versatility:Can perform different types of tasks.
Speed:Processes data at very high speed.
The characteristic of working tirelessly without fatigue isDiligence.
Answer: Option 1 → Diligence
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 3 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q16. Which characteristic of computers enables them to perform various tasks such as calculations, graphics, and communication?

  1. (a) Speed
  2. (b) Versatility
  3. (c) Automation
  4. (d) Accuracy
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Versatility

Topic:Computer Characteristics
Versatilitymeans ability to perform different types of tasks.
Computers can handle calculations, graphics, communication,
data processing, multimedia, gaming, etc.
Other options:
Speed → Fast processing
Automation → Self-operating capability
Accuracy → Error-free results
Answer: Option 2 → Versatility
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 24 March 2026 Shift 1 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q17. The term GIGO (Garbage In Garbage Out) is most closely related to which computer characteristic?

  1. (a) No Heuristics
  2. (b) Diligence
  3. (c) Storage Capacity
  4. (d) Accuracy
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Accuracy

Topic: Computer Fundamentals - GIGO Principle
GIGO (Garbage In Garbage Out)means if incorrect or poor quality data is input into a computer, the output will also be incorrect or meaningless.
This principle is directly related toAccuracy- computers process data with precision, but accuracy of output depends entirely on accuracy of input data.
Computer cannot judge quality of input; it processes whatever data is given with 100% precision.
Answer: Option 4 → Accuracy
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 24 March 2026 Shift 2 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q18. Which characteristic of a computer ensures that identical input and instructions always produce the same output?

  1. (a) Mobility
  2. (b) Flexibility
  3. (c) Consistency
  4. (d) Expansion
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Consistency

Topic: Computer Characteristics
Consistencymeans a computer always produces the same output for identical input and instructions.
This reliability is a fundamental characteristic that distinguishes computers from humans.
Other options:
• Mobility → portability of device
• Flexibility → ability to perform various tasks
• Expansion → ability to add hardware/software
Answer: Option 3 → Consistency
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 24 March 2026 Shift 2 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q19. A computer performs millions of calculations in a fraction of a second. Which characteristic is primarily demonstrated here?

  1. (a) Storage
  2. (b) Speed
  3. (c) Versatility
  4. (d) Accuracy
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Speed

Characteristic: Speed
Speed refers to the ability of a computer to perform operations extremely fast.
Modern computers can execute millions to billions of instructions per second (MIPS/BIPS).
Performing millions of calculations in a fraction of a second directly demonstrates processing speed.
Answer: Option 2 → Speed

Q20. In the field of e-commerce and financial trading, which application of computers is essential for analyzing massive volumes of rapidly changing market data and detecting complex patterns to inform investment decisions?

  1. (a) Inventory Management Systems
  2. (b) Data Encryption and Security Software
  3. (c) Real-time Predictive Analytics
  4. (d) Word Processing and Desktop Publishing
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Real-time Predictive Analytics

Topic:Computer Applications in E-commerce & Financial Trading
Question asks: Application for analyzing massive volumes of rapidly
changing market data and detecting complex patterns for investments.
Key Requirements:
• Massive data volumes → Big Data processing
• Rapidly changing → Real-time analysis needed
• Pattern detection → Predictive algorithms
• Investment decisions → Forecasting & analytics
Real-time Predictive Analyticsuses machine learning and statistical
models to process streaming market data, identify trends, and predict
future movements for informed trading decisions.
Answer: Option 3 → Real-time Predictive Analytics
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 22 March 2026 Shift 1 · History of computers and pioneers

Q21. Who is widely regarded as the ‘Father of Computers’ for designing the first mechanical computing device?

  1. (a) Blaise Pascal
  2. (b) Alan Turing
  3. (c) John von Neumann
  4. (d) Charles Babbage
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Charles Babbage

Topic: History of Computers
Charles Babbage(1791-1871) designed theAnalytical Engine, the first mechanical general-purpose computing device.
He is called the'Father of Computers'for his pioneering work in mechanical computation.
Other contributors: Blaise Pascal (mechanical calculator), Alan Turing (theoretical computer science), John von Neumann (computer architecture).
Answer: Option 4 → Charles Babbage

Q22. The fourth generation of computers marked the use of integrated circuits and compact computing. This generation began with the invention of which key component?

  1. (a) Transistor Device Unit
  2. (b) Microprocessor Chip
  3. (c) Tabulating Machine Device
  4. (d) ENIAC Computer System
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Microprocessor Chip

Topic:Computer Generations
Fourth Generation (1971-Present):
Marked byVLSI (Very Large Scale Integration)technology.
Key Component:Microprocessor Chip
Intel 4004 (1971) was the first microprocessor.
Integrated thousands of transistors on a single chip.
Features: Compact size, high speed, low cost, reliability.
Answer: Option 2 → Microprocessor Chip
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 18 March 2026 Shift 1 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q23. Unlike humans, a computer does not feel tired or bored while repeating the same task all day. This shows which characteristic?

  1. (a) Speed
  2. (b) Versatility
  3. (c) Intelligence
  4. (d) Diligence
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Diligence

Diligencemeans the ability to work continuously without getting tired, bored, or losing concentration.
Computers can perform repetitive tasks for hours without any decrease in accuracy or efficiency.
Unlike humans who experience fatigue and boredom, computers maintain consistent performance.
Answer: Option 4 → Diligence

Q24. Which of the following demonstrates the use of computers in scientific research?

  1. (a) Online shopping
  2. (b) Ticket reservation
  3. (c) Word processing
  4. (d) Simulation of experiments
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Simulation of experiments

Scientific research requires complex calculations,
modeling, and testing hypotheses without physical risks.
Simulation of experimentsallows scientists to:
- Model complex phenomena (weather, molecular structures)
- Test dangerous scenarios safely (nuclear reactions)
- Analyze large datasets and predict outcomes
Other options are commercial/office applications,
not scientific research tools.
Answer: Option 4 → Simulation of experiments
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 18 March 2026 Shift 3 · History of computers and pioneers

Q25. In which year was the world’s first commercial microprocessor, the Intel 4004, launched?

  1. (a) 1985
  2. (b) 1960
  3. (c) 1945
  4. (d) 1971
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 1971

Intel 4004 was the world's first commercial microprocessor.
It was a 4-bit CPU designed by Federico Faggin, Ted Hoff, and Stanley Mazor.
Launched in November 1971 by Intel Corporation.
Answer: Option 4 → 1971

Q26. Which sector uses computers for online transactions, payroll processing, inventory control, and data analysis?

  1. (a) Manufacturing Plants
  2. (b) Service Industry
  3. (c) Business and Commerce
  4. (d) Research
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Business and Commerce

Online transactions require digital payment systems.
Payroll processing needs automated salary calculations.
Inventory control tracks stock electronically.
Data analysis uses computational tools for insights.
All these are core business operations in commerce.
Manufacturing uses computers but focuses on production.
Service industry uses computers but for service delivery.
Answer: Option 3 → Business and Commerce

Q27. Which major technological advancement characterizes the fourth generation of computers?

  1. (a) Integrated circuits
  2. (b) Vacuum tubes
  3. (c) Microprocessors
  4. (d) Transistors
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Microprocessors

Generation 1 (1940s-50s): Vacuum tubes
Generation 2 (1950s-60s): Transistors
Generation 3 (1960s-70s): Integrated circuits (ICs)
Generation 4 (1970s-80s): Microprocessors (Intel 4004 onwards)
Microprocessors: Complete CPU on a single chip
Led to personal computers and modern computing
Answer: Option 3 → Microprocessors
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 16 March 2026 Shift 2 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q28. A major characteristic of computer systems is Diligence. Which of the following scenarios primarily highlights a limitation of the computer system that is not overcome by its diligence?

  1. (a) A computer is used to book flights in the morning and write code in the afternoon.
  2. (b) A computer continues processing data for 72 hours straight without any loss of attention.
  3. (c) A computer generates incorrect output because the initial data entered was flawed.
  4. (d) A computer performs trillions of calculations a second, much faster than any human.
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) A computer generates incorrect output because the initial data entered was flawed.

Tier 1 → Cabinet Ministers:
Most senior; head important ministries; attend Cabinet meetings.
Tier 2 → Ministers of State (MoS):
Can be attached to a Cabinet Minister or given independent charge.
Do not routinely attend Cabinet meetings.
Tier 3 → Deputy Ministers:
Assist Cabinet Ministers or Ministers of State.
No independent charge.
Note: There is NO post called 'Deputy Prime Minister' in Constitution
(though it has been used historically in a non-constitutional sense).
Answer: Option 3 → Cabinet Ministers – Ministers of State – Deputy Ministers

Q29. Preparation of report cards, maintaining student records, and creating question papers are actions that are mainly related to which area of computer application?

  1. (a) Space research
  2. (b) Business marketing
  3. (c) Education administration
  4. (d) Automobile control
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Education administration

Report cards, student records, question papers → EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION.
Computer applications by domain:
• Education Admin → student databases, exam software, result processing.
• Business Marketing → CRM, ad platforms, analytics.
• Space Research → simulation, satellite data processing.
• Automobile Control → embedded systems, diagnostics.
Answer: Option 3 → Education administration
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 16 March 2026 Shift 3 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q30. Which characteristic of a computer system enables it to perform extremely complex calculations within seconds?

  1. (a) Automation
  2. (b) Speed
  3. (c) Versatility
  4. (d) Accuracy
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Speed

Performing extremely complex calculations within seconds = SPEED.
Key computer characteristics:
• Speed → Millions of calculations per second.
• Accuracy → Virtually error-free (mistakes are from input, not the machine).
• Diligence → Works tirelessly without drop in performance.
• Versatility → Handles diverse tasks.
• Automation → Executes tasks automatically once programmed.
Answer: Option 2 → Speed

Q31. Which computer application is mainly used for booking railway tickets and flight reservations?

  1. (a) Reservation System
  2. (b) Communication
  3. (c) Banking
  4. (d) Education
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Reservation System

Booking railway tickets and flight reservations is handled by
RESERVATION SYSTEMS (also called Booking/Online Ticketing Systems).
Examples:
• IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) — railway tickets.
• Airlines use Computerised Reservation Systems (CRS/GDS).
Why NOT others:
• Banking → financial transactions.
• Education → student records.
• Communication → emails, messaging.
Answer: Option 1 → Reservation System
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 11 August 2025 Shift 2 · Introduction and characteristics of computers

Q32. A computer system mainly includes which three components?

  1. (a) Monitor, USB, Light
  2. (b) Mouse, CPU, Mobile
  3. (c) Input, Processing, Output
  4. (d) CPU, Scanner, Air Conditioner
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Input, Processing, Output

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