Process management (running programs) in Intro to Computing - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a process in computing?

A process is a program that is currently running on a computer. It includes the program's code and its current activity, like what it is doing and what data it is using.

beginner

What role does the operating system play in process management?

The operating system manages processes by starting, pausing, and stopping them. It also shares the computer's resources like CPU and memory among all running processes.

beginner

Explain the difference between a program and a process.

A program is a set of instructions saved on disk (like a recipe). A process is what happens when the program is running (like cooking the recipe).

beginner

What happens when a process is 'terminated'?

When a process is terminated, it stops running and the operating system frees up the resources it was using, like memory and CPU time.

intermediate

How does the CPU switch between multiple running processes?

The CPU switches between processes quickly using a method called 'context switching'. It saves the current process's state and loads the next process's state, so it looks like they run at the same time.

What is a process?

A A network connection

B A saved file on the disk

C A type of hardware

D A running program with its current activity

A process is a program that is currently running, including its code and activity.

Which component manages processes on a computer?

A Operating system

B Web browser

C Printer

D File explorer

The operating system manages starting, pausing, and stopping processes.

What does 'context switching' allow the CPU to do?

A Switch between processes quickly

B Save files faster

C Connect to the internet

D Increase screen brightness

Context switching lets the CPU switch between processes so multiple programs can run seemingly at the same time.

What happens when a process is terminated?

A It duplicates itself

B It starts running

C It stops running and frees resources

D It saves data to the cloud

Termination stops the process and releases its resources like memory.

Which of these is NOT part of a process?

A Current activity

B User's personal data files

C Program code

D Data being used

User's personal data files are not part of a process; a process includes code, current activity, and data it uses.

Describe what a process is and how it differs from a program.

Think about the difference between a saved recipe and actually cooking a meal.

Explain how the operating system manages multiple running processes on a computer.

Imagine a chef managing several dishes cooking at once.