TutorSyntax — Learn. Practise. Build.
TutorSyntax • Free revision resources

AQA 7517 A-level Computer Science Revision Guide

AQA A-level revision benefits from combining code practice with precise theory explanations. The two assessed papers reward different skills, and both draw on wider Computer Science understanding.

Assessment structure

At A-level, AQA 7517 Paper 1 is an on-screen programming examination testing programming, data structures, algorithms, theory of computation and problem-solving. Paper 2 is a written examination testing topics such as data representation, systems, networks, databases, Big Data and functional programming. Each paper is worth 40%; the NEA project is worth 20%.

Paper 1: programming and problem solving

  1. Write, test and debug modular programs.
  2. Understand data-structure interfaces and operations.
  3. Trace and justify algorithms, including their complexity.
  4. Reason about computational problems and theory of computation.
  5. Practise using your centre’s supported programming language and the appropriate exam environment.

Try without notes: Explain the difference between linear and binary search for a large dataset. 4 marks

Check an example answer and feedback

Linear search can examine elements sequentially and does not require the data to be sorted. Binary search repeatedly halves the search interval but relies on sorted order; its logarithmic comparison count is usually advantageous for large sorted collections.

Paper 2: explanation and application

  1. Represent data and perform relevant calculations.
  2. Compare processor, memory and system design choices.
  3. Explain networking and data-communication mechanisms.
  4. Write SQL and interpret relational databases.
  5. Apply consequences of computing to realistic scenarios.

Alternate knowledge retrieval with longer explanations and short calculations; answering only MCQs is unlikely to provide enough extended practice.

Keep the NEA separate

The practical project requires independent analysis, development, testing, evaluation and documentation. Use our programming resources to improve general skills, but follow your school’s rules for NEA work and the examination board’s authenticity requirements.

Related: AQA topic order, A-level Python and written question practice.

Official specification

AQA A-level 7517 specification at a glance. Confirm the current course details and programming language with your centre.

Continue learning

Choose your examination specification, practise a question and check your answer. Revisit weaker topics after a few days.

Revision Hub →Exam Practice →Python courses →

Independently written TutorSyntax content; not endorsed by OCR or AQA. Always check your school’s specification and mock coverage.