Every computer you see — whether a desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone — is made up of two important parts: hardware and software. These two work together like the body and the mind. You can touch one, but you cannot touch the other. Yet without both, a computer cannot function.

For students preparing for computer studies, WAEC CBT, or digital skills training, understanding hardware and software is one of the most important foundations. In this guide, TechWithUncleChuks breaks everything down in the simplest way possible.

What Are the Parts of a Computer?

Computers have two major components:

✅ Hardware – the physical parts you can see and touch

✅ Software – the instructions/programs that tell the hardware what to do

Together, they make the computer useful.

ALSO READ What Is a Computer? A Simple Beginner-Friendly Explanation

Why This Matters

Knowing the difference between hardware and software helps students:

Understand exam questions correctly
Identify computer components during practicals
Troubleshoot common computer problems
Learn how smartphones, tablets, and laptops actually work
Prepare for advanced digital learning, coding, and IT certifications

This is essential for students facing the new WAEC hybrid CBT exams and modern digital classrooms.

Breakdown of Computer Parts

Hardware (The Body of the Computer)

Hardware includes all the physical components you can hold or see. These include:

🔹 Input Devices

Used to “send” information into the computer.
Examples: keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, touchscreen.

🔹 Output Devices

Show results after processing.
Examples: monitor, printer, speakers, projector.

🔹 Storage Devices

Save data permanently or temporarily.
Examples: hard drive (HDD), SSD, memory card, flash drive.

🔹 CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The “brain” of the computer.
It processes instructions and controls operations.

🔹 RAM (Random Access Memory)

Short-term memory.
Stores information the computer is currently using.

🔹 Motherboard

The “nervous system.”
Holds and connects all components to work together.

Software (The Mind of the Computer)

Software is not physical — you cannot touch it, but you can use it.

🔹 System Software

Controls the overall system.
Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android.

🔹 Application Software

Programs you use to perform tasks.
Examples: Word, Excel, WhatsApp, Chrome, games.

Software gives meaning to hardware. Without software, hardware is just an empty machine.

Practical Examples (Nigeria/Africa Context)

In school computer labs, hardware includes the monitors, keyboards, CPUs, and printers.
The exam software used for WAEC or JAMB CBT is application software.
Smartphones used for online learning contain both hardware (touchscreen, camera) and software (apps).
If a system is slow, it could be due to low RAM (hardware issue) or too many programs running (software issue).

ALSO READ Types of Computers: Desktops, Laptops, Tablets, and More (Explained for Beginners)

Students who understand both can solve problems faster.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make

❌ Thinking “the CPU is the monitor”
❌ Believing software is stored inside the keyboard
❌ Thinking RAM is the same as storage
❌ Confusing operating systems with apps
❌ Assuming hardware alone can work without software

Quick Summary

A computer has two main parts: hardware (body) and software (mind).
Hardware = physical components you can touch.
Software = programs and instructions you cannot touch.
Both must work together for the computer to function.

How This Helps with CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)

This lesson supports ITF+ exam objectives including:

Understanding computer components
Knowing the purpose of hardware
Differentiating system software from application software
Basic troubleshooting
Understanding how computers process tasks

Mastering these basics gives students a strong foundation for IT certifications.

FAQ

1. Can a computer work without software?

No. Hardware needs software instructions to function.

2. Is the CPU inside the monitor?

No. The CPU is inside the system unit or built into a laptop motherboard.

3. Is Android a system software?

Yes. Android is an operating system for smartphones and tablets.

4. What’s the difference between RAM and storage?

RAM is temporary memory; storage is permanent memory.

5. Can I touch software?

No. You can only interact with software on the screen.

Conclusion

Understanding hardware and software is one of the first steps to becoming digitally confident. Whether you’re preparing for exams, training for IT certifications, or simply improving your everyday computer skills, this knowledge will make your learning journey easier. Keep exploring and stay curious!