Question

The _____ tells the computer what to do, such as instructing the computer which device to read or send output to.

1) main memory
2) motherboard
3) operating system
4) control unit

Answer 1

The operating system is the component that tells the computer what to do, such as instructing which device to read or send output to. It manages the computer's hardware and software resources and provides services for computer programs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The component that tells the computer what to do, such as instructing the computer which device to read or send output to, is the operating system. The operating system manages the computer's hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It acts as the intermediary between users and the computer hardware, ensuring that all components, including processors, memory, and peripheral devices, work together efficiently. The control unit, which is part of the microprocessor, is also essential as it directs the operations of the processor, but when it comes to overseeing the entire operation and managing myriad devices, the operating system is in charge.