ICSO Computer Olympiad: What Is Really in the Syllabus
ICSO is the least understood of the four SOF olympiads, mostly because school computer syllabi vary so much. The exam syllabus, however, is stable.
Classes 1–5
Parts of a computer, input and output devices, MS Paint, introduction to Windows, MS Word basics, keyboard and mouse skills, and simple internet awareness.
Classes 6–8
MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint in depth, operating system basics, internet and email, HTML fundamentals, flowcharts and algorithms, plus computer security and ethics.
Classes 9–10
Number systems, networking, database concepts, HTML and CSS, programming logic, cyber safety, and emerging technologies such as AI and cloud computing.
How to practise
Because hands-on time at school is limited, question practice matters more here than in any other subject.
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Keep reading
- SOF Olympiad Preparation: A Practical Guide for Parents (Classes 1–10)
How parents can plan SOF IMO, IEO, NSO and ICSO preparation at home — timelines, weekly routines, and how mock tests fit in.
- Olympiad Coaching vs Self-Study: What Actually Improves Your Child's Rank
An honest comparison of olympiad tuition classes and structured self-study at home, with cost, time and outcome trade-offs.
- IMO Maths Olympiad: Class-Wise Strategy for Classes 1 to 10
Section-by-section IMO strategy — logical reasoning, mathematical reasoning, everyday mathematics and the Achievers Section.