The Computer Knowledge section is one of the highest-scoring parts of the NABARD Development Assistant (DA) mains exam. Unlike prelims, which are scheduled for 21st February 2026, the mains exam will take place on 12th April 2026. Candidates should start preparing for the mains immediately after prelims and not wait for prelim results, as the computer knowledge section has a fixed syllabus and scoring pattern that can help you achieve maximum marks with strategic preparation. With proper focus, practice, and revision, it is possible to score 40 out of 40 in this section.
NABARD DA Mains Exam Pattern for Computer Knowledge Section
Computer Knowledge is a high-scoring section compared to Reasoning or General Awareness, so it is important to treat it as a major subject and not a side topic. Understanding the NABARD DA Exam Pattern is the first step to effective preparation. In NABARD DA mains:
- Scoring: 1 mark per correct answer, no negative marking
- Number of Questions: 40
- Maximum Marks: 40
- Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
What are the important topics for NABARD DA Computer Knowledge?
To ace the computer knowledge section, candidates must first understand the important topics from which questions are consistently asked. These topics cover fundamentals, software, internet and networking, security, and practical applications like MS Office. A structured approach is necessary to ensure no topic is left untouched.
1. Computer Fundamentals
Understanding the basics of computers is essential, as many questions are asked directly from this topic. This includes the architecture, input/output devices, storage, and generations of computers.
- Types of computers: Analog, Digital, Hybrid
- Computer generations: 1st to 5th, technologies used (Vacuum Tubes, Transistors, ICs, Microprocessors)
- CPU components: ALU, Control Unit, Registers, Cache memory
- Input devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner
- Output devices: Monitor, Printer, Speakers
- Storage devices: RAM, ROM, SSD, HDD, EPROM, Virtual memory
- Units of memory: KB, MB, GB, TB, Bits, Bytes
2. Internet and Networking
Internet and networking concepts are heavily tested in NABARD DA. Candidates should focus on protocols, types of networks, and internet-based technologies.
- Internet basics: URL, browser vs. search engine, Extranet, WWW
- Networking: LAN, WAN, MAN, VPN, Network Topologies (Star, Mesh, Bus)
- Networking devices: Hub, Switch, Router
- Protocols: TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, POP3, IMAP
3. Cyber Security & Malware
Cybersecurity is another high-weightage topic. Questions generally cover virus types, security tools, and prevention measures.
- Types of malware: Virus, Trojan, worm, Spyware
- Security tools: Antivirus, Firewalls, Keyloggers
- Cyber attacks and prevention
4. MS Office & Shortcuts
Practical application questions are frequent from MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Knowing functions, formulas, and shortcuts is crucial.
- Microsoft Word: Menus, Formatting tools, Shortcut keys
- Microsoft Excel: Formulas, Charts, Functions, Data handling
- Microsoft PowerPoint: Slide creation, Animations, Transitions
5. Software & Operating Systems
Software and OS are tested conceptually. Candidates should know categories, functions, and types of operating systems.
- Software types: System software, Application software, Utility software, Firmware
- Open-source vs licensed software
- Operating System: Functions, Types (Batch, Multi-user, Real-time), Process vs Thread, Memory management, File systems, Scheduling
6. Database Management Systems (DBMS)
Database concepts are essential for scoring well. Most questions focus on basic understanding and differences.
- Difference between Data and Information
- DBMS Advantages
- ER Model, Primary & Foreign Keys, Normalization
- SQL Basics
7. Cookies & Email Protocols
Web-related topics like cookies and email protocols are frequently asked.
- HTTP cookies: Session, Persistent, Third-party
- Email components: To, CC, BCC, Attachments
- Protocols: SMTP (Send), IMAP & POP3 (Receive)
- Web email security and spam
How to score 40/40 in NABARD DA Computer Knowledge?
Scoring full marks in computer knowledge is possible if candidates focus on concepts, fixed topics, and exam-oriented practice. Unlike reasoning or English, this section is conceptual and factual, so accurate preparation is key.
- Topic-wise MCQs: Practice multiple-choice questions for each topic. Include explanations for correct and incorrect options.
- One-liner notes: Prepare crisp notes for definitions, protocols, and shortcut keys for quick revision.
- Fixed question areas: Focus more on topics with high probability: networking, Internet, MS Office, cybersecurity, and DBMS.
- Elimination technique: Use this to solve tricky questions by removing irrelevant options.
- Revision: Revise all important formulas, shortcuts, and protocols regularly.
- Mock practice: Attempt full computer mocks to identify weak areas and improve speed.
Last 15-Day Preparation Plan
The final 15 days before the NABARD DA mains should focus on revision and intensive practice to secure 40/40.
- Days 1-5: Revise Computer Fundamentals, Networking, Internet, and Cybersecurity.
- Days 6-8: Revise MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), including all functions, formulas, and shortcut keys.
- Days 9-11: Revise DBMS, Software, and Operating Systems. Practice related MCQs.
- Days 12-13: Revise Cookies, Email Protocols, and Web Security. Prepare one-liner notes for all topics.
- Days 14-15: Take full computer knowledge mocks. Focus on weak areas, apply elimination techniques, and revise one-liners.
NABARD DA Computer Knowledge Notes
To help aspirants score full marks, we have compiled comprehensive NABARD DA Computer Knowledge notes. These notes cover all important topics in detail and are structured for quick revision and practice. Candidates can download FREE topic-wise notes from the links provided below:
| Topics | Free Notes PDF |
| Computer Fundamentals | Download Here |
| Internet & Networking | Download Here |
| Cybersecurity & Malware | Download Here |
| MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) | Download Here |
| DBMS Basics | Download Here |
| Operating System | Download Here |
| Programming Languages | Download Here |
| Software & Types of Software | Download Here |
| Email & Protocols | Download Here |
| Keyboard Shortcuts & Function Keys | Download Here |
| Memory & Storage Units | Download Here |
FAQs
Q1: How many questions are asked from Computer Knowledge in NABARD DA Mains?
A1: The Computer Knowledge section has 40 questions for 40 marks, with 1 mark per question. It is a factual and straightforward section, making it possible to score full marks with proper preparation.
Q2: Which topics are most important for scoring full marks in NABARD DA Computer Knowledge?
A2: High-weightage topics include Computer Fundamentals, Networking & Internet, Cybersecurity & Malware, MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), DBMS basics, and Software & Operating Systems. Prioritizing these topics ensures maximum scoring potential.
Q3: How can I prepare shortcuts and formulas for MS Office efficiently?
A3: Create a one-page sheet for each application. For Word, focus on formatting shortcuts and special keys; for Excel, memorize key formulas and functions; for PowerPoint, note slide creation, view options, and animation shortcuts. Regular revision of these sheets helps retain information.
Q4: What is the best way to revise all topics before the exam?
A4: Use one-liner notes and concept maps for each topic. Focus on definitions, key differences, protocols, and important functions. Practice topic-wise MCQs regularly to reinforce memory and speed.
Q5: Can I score 40/40 in NABARD DA Computer Knowledge if I start preparation after prelims?
A5: Yes, you can. Start early, create notes, practice MCQs daily, focus on fixed high-weightage topics, and revise consistently. The section is factual, not tricky, so smart preparation allows scoring full marks even after prelims.
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