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IT basics · Lesson 1 of 6 · About 10 minutes

What the computer parts do

Study the required lesson, then use the four questions to check your understanding.

Required ITForMe lesson

The processor (CPU) executes instructions. RAM holds data that programs are using now. Ordinary RAM loses its contents when power is removed.

Storage, such as an SSD or hard drive, keeps files after shutdown. Opening a file loads data into RAM; editing it there does not necessarily change the saved file.

Save a document to write the latest changes to storage. Unsaved changes can be lost when an application closes or the computer loses power. Some apps save automatically, but check their saved status rather than assuming they do.

Example: You save a report, type another paragraph, then lose power before saving again. The saved report remains on the drive. The latest paragraph may be missing because its changes were still in memory.

Check your understanding

Choose one answer for each question. Feedback appears after submission.

1. An application calculates totals from a spreadsheet. Which component executes its instructions?
2. A running application needs a place for its current working data. Which component normally provides that space?
3. A saved photograph is still available after the computer has been shut down overnight. Where was its file retained?
4. You saved a document, edited it again, then lost power. The application has no automatic saving. What should you expect when reopening it?

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