An operating system manages the files stored on a computer.
Explain one purpose of file management in an operating system.
Mark scheme
Award up to two marks for a linked explanation such as:
- Files can be organised into folders/directories (1) so users can find/store files easily (1)
- Files can be located/opened/saved (1) because the operating system keeps track of where each file is stored (1)
- Access permissions can be set on files (1) so only allowed users can read/modify them (1)
- Files can be copied/moved/deleted (1) because the operating system controls where data is written/removed on a storage device (1)
- Free disk space can be monitored/managed (1) so storage does not run out / files are stored efficiently (1)
For both marks, the expansion must follow/associate with the statement.
Do not accept 'manages files' or 'organises files' on its own as it repeats the question.
Allow 'makes it easier to find files' as the linked reason for organising files into folders.
Example answers and how they were marked
File management lets the operating system organise files into folders so that users can find the files they need more easily.
Why: Point (1) for organising files into folders and linked reason (1) for making files easier to find.
It organises files into folders.
Why: Point (1) for organising files into folders; no linked reason.
It manages the files on the computer so the files are managed properly.
Why: Repeats the question; no purpose or linked reason credited.