IGCSE 0478 Programming Notes
1. Programming Fundamentals
• Variables & Constants: Understand how to declare and use variables and constants to
store data.
• Data Types: Familiarize yourself with common data types such as integer, real, Boolean,
and string.
• Operators: Learn about arithmetic (e.g., +, -, *, /), relational (e.g., ==, !=, >, <), and
logical operators (e.g., AND, OR, NOT).
2. Control Structures
• Sequence: Executing statements in order.
• Selection: Using IF...THEN...ELSE statements to make decisions.
• Iteration: Implementing loops using FOR, WHILE, and REPEAT...UNTIL.
3. Data Structures
• Arrays: Learn how to declare, initialize, and manipulate arrays.
• Records: Understand how to group related data using records.
4. Procedures and Functions
• Procedures: Subprograms that perform tasks without returning a value.
• Functions: Subprograms that return a value.
• Parameters: Differentiate between passing parameters by value and by reference.
5. File Handling
• Opening and Closing Files: Learn how to open files for reading or writing and close them
after operations.
• Reading and Writing: Understand how to read from and write to text files.
6. Error Handling and Testing
• Types of Errors: Identify syntax, runtime, and logic errors.
• Testing: Develop test plans and use trace tables to debug programs.
Recommended Study Resources
1. ZNotes – IGCSE Computer Science (0478)
o Offers concise, exam-focused notes covering both theory and programming
aspects.
o Includes pseudocode examples and algorithm explanations.
o Access here: ZNotes IGCSE Computer Science(StudyLast)
2. StudyLast – Comprehensive Exam Notes
o Provides a 103-page document covering both Theory A and Programming B
papers.
o Includes detailed explanations and examples.
o Preview and purchase here: StudyLast IGCSE Computer Science Notes(StudyLast)
3. SmartNotesOnline – Revision Notes
o Covers topics from theory to program solving in a concise format.
o Useful for quick revisions.
o Access here: SmartNotesOnline IGCSE CS Notes(Studocu)
Visual Learning Resources
• IGCSE Computer Science 0478 | Ultimate Guide: A comprehensive video covering key
programming concepts.
o Watch here: YouTube Video
• Chapter 8: Programming Activities: Detailed walkthroughs of programming activities
from the syllabus.
o Watch here: YouTube Video
Practice Makes Perfect
To reinforce your understanding, consider practicing with past papers and sample questions.
The Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) syllabus provides a range of practice materials
that can help you apply the concepts you've learned.(StudyLast)
