Computer Science Mock Interview
Master 25 Computer Science interview questions covering algorithms, data structures, and system design.
Question 20 of 25
What are the differences between primary and secondary memory?
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William Swansen has worked in the employment assistance realm since 2007. He is an author, job search strategist, and career advisor who helps individuals worldwide and in various professions to find their ideal careers.
This technical question is meant to determine your knowledge of the subject and how you use it to perform your job. The best way to prepare for an interview as a computer scientist is to thoroughly understand your profession's technical terms. You should be able to identify, define, and talk about how these items are used. Describing unique uses and innovative ways to employ the concepts will distinguish you from other candidates.
William Swansen has worked in the employment assistance realm since 2007. He is an author, job search strategist, and career advisor who helps individuals worldwide and in various professions to find their ideal careers.
"Primary memory is the main memory used by the CPU in a computer. It consists of ROM and RAM and is stored on integrated circuit chips. Secondary memory refers to storage that is external to the computer's motherboard. Examples of secondary memory include hard drives, DVDs, USB memory sticks, and other devices where memory is stored externally and can be removed from the computer if necessary."
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Anonymous Answer
The primary memory in a computer is found in the CPU, consists of RAM, and is stored in integrated circuit chips. Secondary memory is the memory that is stored externally, through hard drives, DVDs, etc. This memory can be removed from the computer if necessary.
Stephanie's Feedback
This response definitely illustrates your content knowledge, but you may wish to add in a few additional details about your knowledge (or a specific example) to make your answer even stronger and more memorable.
Anonymous Answer
Primary memory is the main internal memory including ROM, RAM, and the microprocessor. Secondary memory is external memory including CDs and thumb drives.
Marcie's Feedback
Great! The interviewer will undoubtedly be pleased by your technical knowledge. To strengthen your reply, can you talk about some other differences (e.g., primary memory is lost during a power outage while secondary data saves the data; one is non-volatile while the other is volatile, etc.) as well?
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