Download WAEC 2026 Computer Science Syllabus - MYDPORT

WAEC syllabus for Computer Science questions and answers 2026-2027, Computer Science / Studies WAEC Syllabus, Free live WAEC computer Studies Syllabus. Please note that this syllabus is for both internal and external candidates

WAEC 2026 Computer Studies (Essay & Objective) Questions and Answers

The 2026 WAEC Computer Studies Questions and Answers are now available. These solutions are arranged to help candidates understand the concepts and prepare effectively for the exam.

Question 1(a)

(i) Sign in
Signing in refers to the process of accessing a system, platform, or online service using login details such as a username and password. This step grants the user access to personalized content, saved data, and account-specific features.

(ii) Search engine
A search engine is an internet-based tool that allows users to find information online. By typing in keywords or queries, the search engine retrieves and displays relevant results from its database of websites and web pages.

Question 1(bi)

• Figure 1: Random File Access Method

• Figure 2: Sequential File Access Method

Question 1(bii)

Figure 1 (Random File Access)

✅ Advantages (pick one)

• Fast access to records

• Direct retrieval of data

• Efficient for handling large databases

• Allows both random and sequential access

❌ Disadvantages (pick one)

• Can be inefficient for large data sets

• Prone to corruption if not managed properly

• Limited portability across systems

• Complex data structures may be difficult to manage

Figure 2 (Sequential File Access)

✅ Advantages (pick one)

• Simple and easy to implement

• Cost-effective

• Suitable for storing large volumes of data

• Easy to maintain and read sequentially

❌ Disadvantages (pick one)

• Slower access compared to random methods

• Not efficient for frequent random access

• Limited support for multiple users at once

• Difficult to update and insert new data

Question 3

(3ai) File
A file is a collection of related information stored under a single name on a storage medium.

(3aii) Record
A record is a collection of related fields treated as a single unit of information, such as one row in a database table.

(3aiii) Field
A field is the smallest unit of data within a record, representing a single attribute such as a name, ID, or date of birth.

(3bi) Examples of fields in a student’s record

• Student ID number

• Date of birth

• Emergency contact information

(3bii) Editing a student’s record
To update a field, the database is opened and the relevant student record located. The specific field is then edited with the new information, after which the changes are saved to update the record.

(3biii) Examples of database software

• Microsoft Access

• MySQL

Computer Science Past Question for WAEC

WAEC Syllabus for Computer Studies 2026 –– Questions & Answers

COMPUTER STUDIES PREAMBLE: This examination syllabus is derived from the National Curriculum for Senior Secondary School Computer Studies, outlining the course scope for examinations at this level. It emphasizes a conceptual approach, with thematic areas covering:

1. Computer fundamentals and evolution
2. Computer hardware
3. Computer software
4. Basic computer operations
5. Computer applications
6. Managing computer files
7. Developing problem-solving skills
8. Information and communication technology
9. Computer ethics and human issues

Each thematic area is subdivided into concepts. It's important to note that this syllabus complements the teaching syllabus and does not replace it.

Aims and objectives

The objectives of the syllabus aim to assess candidates' understanding, knowledge, and acquisition of:

1. Basic concepts of computers and their operations
2. Manipulative, computational, and problem-solving skills
3. Application of software packages
4. Operation of computer-related simple devices
5. Online skills and their applications
6. Safe attitudes and good practices for effective computer use
7. Potential for further studies in computer-related areas

Examination Scheme

There will be three papers, Papers 1, 2, and 3, all of which are compulsory:

Paper 1:

• 50 multiple-choice objective questions
• Duration: 1 hour
• Marks: 25

Paper 2:

• Five essay questions
• Candidates answer any three
• Duration: 1 hour
• Marks: 30

Paper 3:

• Tests actual practical skills for school candidates and practical work knowledge for private candidates
• Three questions to be answered
• Duration: 2 hours
• Marks: 45

Detailed Computer Science/Studies Syllabus:

TOPIC: COMPUTER EVOLUTION

CONTENT:

(a) Computing Devices I (Pre-computing age - 19th century)

Features, Components, and Uses of Early Computing Devices:

• Abacus
• Slide Rule
• Napier’s Bone
• Pascal’s Calculator
• Leibnitz Multiplier
• Jacquard Loom
• Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine
• Hollerith Census Machine
• Burrough’s Machine

Contribution of Each Founder to Modern Computers:

• Explanation of how each inventor's device contributed to the evolution of modern computers.

Trend of Development in Computing Devices:

• Sequential development from one device to another, showcasing technological advancements over time.

(b) Computing Devices II (20th century to date)

Features, Components, and Uses of Modern Computing Devices:

• ENIAC
• EDVAC
• UNIVAC 1
• Desktop Personal Computers
• Laptop and Notebook Computers
• Palmtop

Sizes and Basic Components in Comparative Form:

• Comparison of sizes and basic components of modern computing devices in a tabular format for clear understanding.

Fundamentals Of Computing

(a) Overview of Computing System

Definition of a Computer:

• Explanation of what constitutes a computer and its primary function.

Two Main Constituents of a Computer:

• Description of computer hardware and computer software as essential components.

Computer Hardware:

• Explanation of physical components of a computer system.

Computer Software:

• Explanation of programs and data that instruct the hardware on what to do.

Classification and Examples of Hardware and Software:

• Categorization of hardware and software components with illustrative examples.

Functional Parts of a Computer:

• Description of key components such as CPU, memory, input/output devices, etc.

Characteristics of Computers:

• Attributes of computers including electronic nature, accuracy, speed, interactivity, etc.

Differences between Hardware and Software:

• Clear distinction between physical components (hardware) and programs/data (software).

(b) Data and Information

Definition and Examples of Data and Information:

• Explanation of raw facts (data) and processed data with context (information).

Differences between Data and Information:

• Clear distinction between unprocessed and processed data, emphasizing their respective roles and significance.

COMPUTER ETHICS AND HUMAN ISSUES

Security and Ethics

1. Sources of Security Breaches:

• Identification and explanation of various sources of security breaches, including viruses, worms, Trojan horses, poor network implementation, lack of ICT policies, carelessness, hackers, spammers, etc.
• Definition and effects of viruses and worms should be elaborated.
• Definition of hackers and spammers should also be provided.

2. Preventive Measures:

• Suggestions for preventive measures such as using antivirus software like Norton, McAfee, Avast, etc.
• Explanation of firewall and its importance.
• Advising caution in sharing vital and personal information online.
• Description of encryption methods to secure data.
• Emphasis on proper network implementation and policies.
• Recommendation to use websites with web certificates.
• Cautionary advice regarding opening email attachments.

3. Legal Issues:

• Discussion of legal issues related to computer ethics, including copyright laws for software.
• Explanation of firewall functionality is necessary.
• Definition of encryption should be provided and elaborated upon.

COPYRIGHT:

• Explanation of copyright as the ownership right to text, images, audio, and video.
• Importance of privacy for audio and video software.
• Discussion of cybercrimes including identity theft, internet fraud, and hacking.

COMPUTER HARDWARE

Input Devices:

• Definition and examples of input devices such as keyboard, mouse, scanner, joystick, light pen, etc.
• Classification of keys on the keyboard into Function, Numeric, Alphabetic, and Cursor keys.
• Explanation of the features, functions, and operation of the mouse.
• Comparison of keyboard, mouse, light pen, and scanner.

Output Devices:

• Definition and examples of output devices including monitor, printer, speaker, and plotter.
• Explanation of the types, features, and uses of output devices.
• Differentiation between input and output devices.
• Comparison of inkjet, laser, and line printers.
• Examples and types of printers and monitors should be provided.