CBSE Class 10 Employability Skills Unit 3 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Skills MCQs with Answers (2026–27)
Class 10 · Artificial Intelligence
Are you preparing for the CBSE Class 10 Employability Skills Examination (2026–27)? This article provides the 30 most important Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) from Unit 3 – Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Skills, strictly based on the latest CBSE curriculum.
These MCQs are carefully designed for board examinations, periodic tests, pre-board examinations, school assessments, revision, and competency-based learning. Each question is accompanied by the correct answer, detailed explanation, and reasons why the remaining options are incorrect, enabling students to build strong conceptual understanding instead of rote memorization.
? Topics Covered
- Introduction to Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Computer Hardware and Software
- Operating System (OS)
- BIOS and Computer Booting Process
- Keyboard and Mouse Operations
- File Extensions and File Management
- Folders and Storage Devices
- Keyboard Shortcut Keys
- Computer Maintenance
- Data Backup
- Improving Computer Performance
- Cyber Safety and Security
- Identity Theft
- Software Piracy
- Computer Viruses and Malware
- Strong Passwords
- Secure Websites (HTTPS)
- Firewall and Encryption
- Safe Internet Practices
? Exam Tip: The CBSE board now emphasizes competency-based and application-oriented questions. Students should understand practical computer usage, cyber safety, maintenance practices, and real-life ICT applications rather than memorizing definitions.
CBSE Class 10 Employability Skills Unit 3 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Skills MCQs with Answers
Q1. ICT stands for Information and Communication __________.
A. Technology
B. Terminology
C. Technical
D. Training
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: A. Technology
Explanation: ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology. It includes the use of computers, the Internet, communication devices, and digital technologies to collect, store, process, and share information.
Why other options are incorrect:
- B. Terminology refers to technical vocabulary.
- C. Technical is an adjective, not the correct expansion.
- D. Training relates to learning and education.
Q2. Which of the following is an example of computer hardware?
A. Operating System
B. Keyboard
C. Web Browser
D. Games
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Keyboard
Explanation: Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer that can be seen and touched, such as the keyboard, monitor, mouse, CPU, and printer.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. An Operating System is system software.
- C. A web browser is application software.
- D. Games are software applications.
Q3. Which software starts automatically when a computer is switched on and displays the desktop?
A. Application Software
B. BIOS
C. Operating System
D. Device Driver
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: C. Operating System
Explanation: The Operating System (OS) manages the computer's hardware and software resources and starts automatically after the boot process.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Application software works only after the OS loads.
- B. BIOS performs the initial hardware check before loading the OS.
- D. Device drivers help hardware communicate with the OS.
Q4. Which of the following is a popular mobile operating system?
A. Ubuntu
B. Microsoft Windows
C. macOS
D. Android
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: D. Android
Explanation: Android is one of the world's most widely used mobile operating systems for smartphones and tablets.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Ubuntu is mainly used on computers and servers.
- B. Windows is primarily a desktop operating system.
- C. macOS is designed for Apple computers.
Q5. Which program performs a self-test before the Operating System loads?
A. BIOS
B. CPU
C. RAM
D. Notepad
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: A. BIOS
Explanation: BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) performs the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to check whether hardware components are working properly before loading the Operating System.
Why other options are incorrect:
- B. CPU executes instructions but does not perform POST independently.
- C. RAM stores temporary data.
- D. Notepad is a text editor.
Q6. Which key is used to move the cursor to the next line or confirm commands?
A. Shift
B. Caps Lock
C. Enter
D. Tab
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: C. Enter
Explanation: The Enter key is used to start a new line in documents and to execute commands in many applications.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Shift is used to type uppercase letters or special symbols.
- B. Caps Lock enables continuous uppercase typing.
- D. Tab moves the cursor to the next tab position.
Q7. Which of the following are navigation keys on a keyboard?
A. F1–F12 keys
B. Arrow keys, Home and End keys
C. Delete and Backspace keys
D. Ctrl, Alt and Shift keys
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Arrow keys, Home and End keys
Explanation: Navigation keys help users move through documents and webpages quickly. These include Arrow keys, Home, End, Page Up, and Page Down.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. These are function keys.
- C. Delete and Backspace edit text rather than navigate.
- D. Ctrl, Alt, and Shift are modifier keys.
Q8. Scenario: You move the mouse pointer over a file without clicking to see its details. This action is called:
A. Selecting
B. Double-clicking
C. Drag and Drop
D. Hovering
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: D. Hovering
Explanation: Hovering means placing the mouse pointer over an item without clicking. It often displays additional information such as file size, date, or description.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Selecting requires clicking.
- B. Double-clicking opens files or programs.
- C. Drag and Drop moves items from one location to another.
Q9. What happens when you double-click a file?
A. The file gets selected.
B. The file opens.
C. The file is moved.
D. The file is deleted.
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. The file opens.
Explanation: Double-clicking the left mouse button quickly is the standard method for opening files, folders, and applications.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. A single click selects a file.
- C. Moving requires drag-and-drop or Cut-Paste.
- D. Double-clicking never deletes a file.
Q10. Which type of file is usually identified by the extension .jpg?
A. Text File
B. Image File
C. Audio File
D. Spreadsheet
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Image File
Explanation: The .jpg (or .jpeg) extension represents image files commonly used for photographs and digital pictures.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Text files usually have the extension .txt.
- C. Audio files commonly use .mp3 or .wav.
- D. Spreadsheet files usually have extensions such as .xls or .xlsx.
Q11. A location on a computer where a group of related files can be stored is called a:
A. Folder
B. Drive
C. Extension
D. Shortcut
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: A. Folder
Explanation: A folder is used to organize and store related files in one place, making them easier to locate and manage.
Why other options are incorrect:
- B. A drive is a storage device or partition that contains folders and files.
- C. A file extension identifies the type of a file.
- D. A shortcut is a link to a file or program, not a storage location.
Q12. Scenario: You want to move a file from one folder to another. Which keyboard shortcut sequence should you use?
A. Ctrl + C, then Ctrl + V
B. Ctrl + X, then Ctrl + V
C. Ctrl + S, then Ctrl + X
D. Ctrl + Z, then Ctrl + V
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Ctrl + X, then Ctrl + V
Explanation: Ctrl + X cuts (moves) the selected file, and Ctrl + V pastes it into the new location.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Ctrl + C copies the file instead of moving it.
- C. Ctrl + S saves a file.
- D. Ctrl + Z undoes the previous action.
Q13. Which shortcut key is used to undo the last action?
A. Ctrl + Y
B. Ctrl + S
C. Ctrl + Z
D. Ctrl + A
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: C. Ctrl + Z
Explanation: Ctrl + Z is the standard keyboard shortcut for undoing the most recent action in most applications.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Ctrl + Y usually performs Redo.
- B. Ctrl + S saves a document.
- D. Ctrl + A selects all content.
Q14. What is the recommended way to clean a computer keyboard?
A. Wipe it with a very wet sponge.
B. Use a soft brush to remove dust and crumbs.
C. Spray water directly onto the keys.
D. Shake it vigorously until the keys come out.
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Use a soft brush to remove dust and crumbs.
Explanation: A soft brush safely removes dust and small particles without damaging the keyboard.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Excess water can damage electronic components.
- C. Never spray liquids directly on electronic devices.
- D. Shaking the keyboard forcefully may damage it.
Q15. Leaving a device connected to the charger after it reaches 100% may:
A. Increase battery life
B. Improve performance
C. Overheat the battery
D. Delete stored files
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: C. Overheat the battery
Explanation: Keeping a battery connected to the charger for long periods after it is fully charged may generate excess heat and reduce battery life.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Overcharging does not increase battery life.
- B. Charging longer does not improve computer performance.
- D. Charging has no relation to deleting files.
Q16. Why should you avoid running too many programs simultaneously?
A. It permanently fills the hard disk.
B. It can slow down the computer or even cause it to crash.
C. It deletes browser history.
D. It damages the monitor.
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. It can slow down the computer or even cause it to crash.
Explanation: Running many applications at once consumes RAM and processor resources, making the computer slow and sometimes unstable.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Running programs does not permanently fill the hard disk.
- C. Browser history is unrelated.
- D. It does not physically damage the monitor.
Q17. Backing up data means saving important information on:
A. The same folder on the computer
B. A notebook
C. A different storage device like a CD, DVD, or external hard disk
D. The Recycle Bin
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: C. A different storage device like a CD, DVD, or external hard disk
Explanation: A backup is a duplicate copy of important data stored separately so it can be restored if the original data is lost.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Saving in the same location does not protect against system failure.
- B. A notebook cannot store digital files.
- D. Files in the Recycle Bin may be deleted permanently.
Q18. Which activity is generally included in a weekly computer maintenance schedule?
A. Cleaning the email inbox
B. Updating the operating system
C. Sorting household waste
D. Backing up important data
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: D. Backing up important data
Explanation: Creating regular backups protects valuable data from accidental deletion, hardware failure, or malware attacks.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Inbox cleaning is usually a daily task.
- B. Operating system updates are performed whenever updates are available.
- C. This is unrelated to computer maintenance.
Q19. Which action can improve the performance of a slow computer?
A. Installing more games
B. Removing unnecessary files using Disk Cleanup software
C. Never shutting down the computer
D. Changing the desktop wallpaper
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Removing unnecessary files using Disk Cleanup software
Explanation: Deleting temporary files and unnecessary data frees storage space and improves overall computer performance.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Installing more software usually consumes additional storage.
- C. Computers should be restarted regularly.
- D. Wallpaper has almost no effect on system performance.
Q20. What is Identity Theft?
A. Physically stealing someone's laptop
B. Stealing someone's personal information to pretend to be that person
C. Using pirated software
D. Forgetting your own password
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Stealing someone's personal information to pretend to be that person
Explanation: Identity theft occurs when criminals obtain another person's personal information and misuse it for fraud or other illegal activities.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. This is physical theft, not identity theft.
- C. This refers to software piracy.
- D. Forgetting a password is unrelated to identity theft.
MCQs 21–30
Q21. Using or distributing unauthorized copies of computer software is known as:
A. Data Encryption
B. Identity Theft
C. Spamming
D. Software Piracy
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: D. Software Piracy
Explanation: Software piracy means copying, installing, sharing, or using software without obtaining a valid license from its owner.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Data encryption protects information by converting it into coded form.
- B. Identity theft involves stealing someone's personal information.
- C. Spamming refers to sending unwanted emails.
Q22. Which type of malware can replicate itself and spread throughout a computer or network?
A. Worm
B. Trojan Horse
C. Spam
D. Online Predator
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: A. Worm
Explanation: A worm is a self-replicating malware that spreads automatically across computers and networks without user intervention.
Why other options are incorrect:
- B. A Trojan Horse disguises itself as legitimate software but does not self-replicate.
- C. Spam consists of unwanted emails, not malware.
- D. An online predator is a person, not a computer virus.
Q23. Malware that disguises itself as a useful program but secretly damages the computer is called:
A. Worm
B. Firewall
C. Trojan Horse
D. Antivirus
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: C. Trojan Horse
Explanation: A Trojan Horse appears to be a genuine application but performs harmful activities after being installed.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Worms spread automatically rather than hiding as useful software.
- B. A firewall protects the computer from unauthorized access.
- C. ✔ Correct Answer.
- D. Antivirus software detects and removes malware.
Q24. Individuals who misuse the Internet to trap or exploit others, especially children, are known as:
A. Software Pirates
B. Online Predators
C. Scammers
D. Hackers
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Online Predators
Explanation: Online predators misuse social media, games, and chat platforms to manipulate or exploit vulnerable users.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Software pirates illegally copy software.
- C. Scammers mainly deceive people for money or personal information.
- D. Hackers attempt unauthorized access to systems but are different from online predators.
Q25. Which of the following represents a strong password?
A. 12345678
B. password
C. Rahul123
D. R@hul#2026
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: D. R@hul#2026
Explanation: A strong password contains uppercase/lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, making it difficult to guess or crack.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. It is too simple and commonly used.
- B. "password" is one of the weakest passwords.
- C. It lacks special characters and is easier to guess.
Q26. Which sign indicates that a website is secure for online payments?
A. Colourful webpage design
B. Many advertisements
C. Recommendation from a friend
D. Address starts with https:// and displays a lock icon
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: D. Address starts with https:// and displays a lock icon
Explanation: Websites using HTTPS encrypt data transmitted between the user and the website, making online transactions safer.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Attractive design does not indicate security.
- B. Advertisements have no relation to website security.
- C. Recommendations alone cannot guarantee security.
Q27. Unwanted commercial or advertising emails are called:
A. SPAM
B. Scams
C. Trojans
D. Piracy
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: A. SPAM
Explanation: Spam emails are unsolicited messages sent in bulk, usually for advertising or fraudulent purposes.
Why other options are incorrect:
- B. Scams are fraudulent attempts to steal money or information.
- C. Trojans are a type of malware.
- D. Piracy refers to unauthorized copying of software.
Q28. Which security tool monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic to protect a computer?
A. Login ID
B. Firewall
C. Disk Cleanup
D. Backup Software
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Firewall
Explanation: A firewall filters network traffic and blocks unauthorized or potentially harmful connections.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. A Login ID identifies a user but does not monitor network traffic.
- C. Disk Cleanup removes unnecessary files.
- D. Backup software creates copies of data.
Q29. The process of converting readable data into coded form to prevent unauthorized access is called:
A. Decryption
B. Spamming
C. Encryption
D. Backup
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: C. Encryption
Explanation: Encryption converts data into unreadable code so that only authorized users with the correct key can access it.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. Decryption converts encrypted data back into readable form.
- B. Spamming refers to sending unwanted emails.
- D. Backup means creating duplicate copies of data.
Q30. Assertion (A): It is important to log out of your computer after completing your work.
Reason (R): Logging out prevents unauthorized users from accessing or modifying your information.
A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
C. A is true, but R is false.
D. A is false, but R is true.
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Explanation: Logging out secures your account by preventing unauthorized users from accessing personal files, emails, and confidential information.
Why other options are incorrect:
- B. The reason directly explains why logging out is important.
- C. The reason is true.
- D. Both statements are correct.
? Quick Revision
- ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology.
- Hardware refers to physical computer components, while Software consists of programs.
- BIOS performs the Power-On Self-Test (POST) before loading the Operating System.
- Ctrl + X moves files, Ctrl + C copies files, Ctrl + V pastes, and Ctrl + Z undoes the previous action.
- Regular computer maintenance, backups, and disk cleanup improve performance.
- Identity Theft, Software Piracy, Worms, and Trojan Horses are common cyber threats.
- Always use strong passwords containing letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Look for HTTPS and the ? lock icon before entering personal or financial information online.
- Firewalls protect computers by monitoring network traffic.
- Encryption secures sensitive information by converting it into coded data.
? Exam Tip
For the CBSE Class 10 Employability Skills Examination, focus on understanding practical computer operations, keyboard shortcuts, file management, cyber safety, malware, passwords, firewalls, encryption, and computer maintenance. CBSE frequently asks application-based, competency-based, and real-life scenario questions from this unit, so practice concepts along with their practical uses.