Edexcel (Pearson) · GCSE · 1CP2
Edexcel GCSE Computer Science past papers (1CP2)
Free guide to the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science 1CP2 past papers. Paper 1 (Principles), Paper 2 (Application) and how to prepare for both.
Go to official Edexcel past papers →Paper structure
Paper 1 — Principles of computer science
Written paper. Covers the theory: computational thinking, data, computers, networks and issues.
Paper 2 — Application of computational thinking
Written paper focused on problem solving with programming in Python or C# reference language.
Topics that come up most
- Computational thinking
- Data
- Computers
- Networks
- Issues and impact
- Problem solving with programming
Tutor's revision tips
- 1
Practise the 'given a scenario, design a solution' Paper 2 questions weekly — they carry the biggest marks.
- 2
Learn to trace pseudocode line by line on paper; Edexcel expects a table showing variable values at each step.
- 3
Don't skip the 'issues and impact' section. It's low-hanging marks if you memorise a few real-world examples (e.g. GDPR, digital divide).
Where to download the papers
All past papers, mark schemes and examiner reports for this specification are published free of charge by Edexcel (Pearson) on their official assessment page. Always download the latest version — older papers may reference retired content.
Official Edexcel assessment resources →Other GCSE boards
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