Understanding Data File Organisation

What is the primary purpose of files in data processing?

• To store data temporarily

• To organise and store data for retrieval and processing

• To delete unnecessary data

• To encrypt data for security

How is a file defined in terms of records and fields?

• A file is a collection of records

• A file is a collection of related records, each containing fields

• A file is a single record with multiple fields

• A file is a collection of unrelated data

What is a fixed-length field?

• A field that can expand or contract in size

• A field with a predetermined size that does not change

• A field that stores variable data types

• A field that is always empty

Which of the following is an example of an appropriate use of variable-length fields?

• Storing fixed-length numerical data

• Storing text data such as names or addresses

• Storing constant values

• Storing binary data

What is the difference between master and transaction files?

• Master files are temporary, transaction files are permanent

• Master files contain historical data, transaction files contain current data

• Master files are updated regularly, transaction files are used for processing changes

• Master files are encrypted, transaction files are not

Which file access method allows for direct retrieval of records without reading through other records?

• Sequential access

• Indexed sequential access

• Direct (random) access

• Serial access

Why is file security important in data processing?

• To reduce the size of files

• To ensure data integrity and prevent unauthorized access

• To make files easier to read

• To increase the speed of data processing

What is data validation?

• The process of checking data for accuracy and completeness

• The process of encrypting data

• The process of deleting duplicate data

• The process of backing up data

Which of the following is a technique for data verification?

• Data encryption

• Double entry

• Data compression

• Data sorting

What is the purpose of archiving files?

• To delete unnecessary files

• To store files that are no longer actively used but may be needed for future reference

• To encrypt files for security

• To increase the speed of data processing