Cybersecurity Pre-Test Questions

What does the term “variable” refer to in programming?

• A fixed value

• A container for storing data

• A type of loop

• A function name

Answer explanation

In programming, a "variable" is a container for storing data. It allows you to hold values that can change during the execution of a program, unlike a fixed value which cannot be altered.

(True/False) Python is a compiled language.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False. Python is primarily an interpreted language, meaning it executes code line by line at runtime rather than compiling it into machine code beforehand.

What symbol is used to start a comment in Python?

• # (hash symbol)

• // (double slash)

• /* (slash asterisk)

• -- (double dash)

Answer explanation

In Python, comments are initiated with the # (hash symbol). This symbol indicates that the rest of the line is a comment and will not be executed as code, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

Which of the following is a data type in Python?

• Integer

• Loop

• Print

• Execute

Answer explanation

In Python, 'Integer' is a fundamental data type used to represent whole numbers. The other options, 'Loop', 'Print', and 'Execute', are not data types but rather concepts or functions in programming.

What does the `if` statement do in a program?

• Repeats code

• Defines a function

• Makes decisions

• Declares a variable

Answer explanation

The `if` statement evaluates a condition and executes code based on whether the condition is true or false. This allows the program to make decisions, which is why the correct answer is 'Makes decisions'.

A `while` loop continues until a condition becomes false.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

A `while` loop executes repeatedly as long as its condition is true. It stops when the condition evaluates to false, confirming that the statement is true.

Write a simple Python line that prints “Hello, World!”

• print("Hello, World!")

• echo "Hello, World!"

• printf("Hello, World!")

• System.out.println("Hello, World!");

Answer explanation

The correct choice is print("Hello, World!") because it uses Python's print function to output text. The other options are from different programming languages: echo (PHP), printf (C), and System.out.println (Java).

What does CPU stand for?

Answer explanation

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit, which is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside the system. It is often referred to as the brain of the computer.

RAM is used for long-term data storage.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile memory used for temporary data storage while a computer is running. It does not retain data long-term, which is why the statement is false.

Name one input and one output device.

• Input device: Keyboard (or Mouse) Output device: Monitor (or Printer)

• Input device: Monitor Output device: Keyboard

• Input device: Printer Output device: Mouse

• Input device: Speaker Output device: Scanner

Answer explanation

The correct choice identifies a keyboard or mouse as an input device, which allows users to enter data, and a monitor or printer as an output device, which displays or produces the results of that data.