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How to Write the “Why Computer Science?” Essay

What’s covered:, what is the purpose of the “why computer science” essay, elements of a good computer science essay, computer science essay example, where to get your essay edited.

You will encounter many essay prompts as you start applying to schools, but if you are intent on majoring in computer science or a related field, you will come across the “ Why Computer Science? ” essay archetype. It’s important that you know the importance behind this prompt and what constitutes a good response in order to make your essay stand out.

For more information on writing essays, check out CollegeVine’s extensive essay guides that include everything from general tips, to essay examples, to essay breakdowns that will help you write the essays for over 100 schools.

Colleges ask you to write a “ Why Computer Science? ” essay so you may communicate your passion for computer science, and demonstrate how it aligns with your personal and professional goals. Admissions committees want to see that you have a deep interest and commitment to the field, and that you have a vision for how a degree in computer science will propel your future aspirations.

The essay provides an opportunity to distinguish yourself from other applicants. It’s your chance to showcase your understanding of the discipline, your experiences that sparked or deepened your interest in the field, and your ambitions for future study and career. You can detail how a computer science degree will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to make a meaningful contribution in this rapidly evolving field.

A well-crafted “ Why Computer Science? ” essay not only convinces the admissions committee of your enthusiasm and commitment to computer science, but also provides a glimpse of your ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively—essential skills for a  computer scientist.

The essay also gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of the specific computer science program at the college or university you are applying to. You can discuss how the program’s resources, faculty, curriculum, and culture align with your academic interests and career goals. A strong “ Why Computer Science? ” essay shows that you have done your research, and that you are applying to the program not just because you want to study computer science, but because you believe that this particular program is the best fit for you.

Writing an effective “ Why Computer Science ?” essay often requires a blend of two popular college essay archetypes: “ Why This Major? ” and “ Why This College? “.

Explain “Why This Major?”

The “ Why This Major? ” essay is an opportunity for you to dig deep into your motivations and passions for studying Computer Science. It’s about sharing your ‘origin story’ of how your interest in Computer Science took root and blossomed. This part of your essay could recount an early experience with coding, a compelling Computer Science class you took, or a personal project that sparked your fascination.

What was the journey that led you to this major? Was it a particular incident, or did your interest evolve over time? Did you participate in related activities, like coding clubs, online courses, hackathons, or internships?

Importantly, this essay should also shed light on your future aspirations. How does your interest in Computer Science connect to your career goals? What kind of problems do you hope to solve with your degree?

The key for a strong “ Why This Major? ” essay is to make the reader understand your connection to the subject. This is done through explaining your fascination and love for computer science. What emotions do you feel when you are coding? How does it make you feel when you figure out the solution after hours of trying? What aspects of your personality shine when you are coding? 

By addressing these questions, you can effectively demonstrate a deep, personal, and genuine connection with the major.

Emphasize “Why This College?”

The “ Why This College? ” component of the essay demonstrates your understanding of the specific university and its Computer Science program. This is where you show that you’ve done your homework about the college, and you know what resources it has to support your academic journey.

What unique opportunities does the university offer for Computer Science students? Are there particular courses, professors, research opportunities, or clubs that align with your interests? Perhaps there’s a study abroad program or an industry partnership that could give you a unique learning experience. Maybe the university has a particular teaching methodology that resonates with you.

Also, think about the larger university community. What aspects of the campus culture, community, location, or extracurricular opportunities enhance your interest in this college? Remember, this is not about general praises but about specific features that align with your goals. How will these resources and opportunities help you explore your interests further and achieve your career goals? How does the university’s vision and mission resonate with your own values and career aspirations?

It’s important when discussing the school’s resources that you always draw a connection between the opportunity and yourself. For example, don’t tell us you want to work with X professor because of their work pioneering regenerative AI. Go a step further and say because of your goal to develop AI surgeons for remote communities, learning how to strengthen AI feedback loops from X professor would bring you one step closer to achieving your dream.

By articulating your thoughts on these aspects, you demonstrate a strong alignment between the college and your academic goals, enhancing your appeal as a prospective student.

Demonstrate a Deep Understanding of Computer Science

As with a traditional “ Why This Major? ” essay, you must exhibit a deep and clear understanding of computer science. Discuss specific areas within the field that pique your interest and why. This could range from artificial intelligence to software development, or from data science to cybersecurity. 

What’s important is to not just boast and say “ I have a strong grasp on cybersecurity ”, but instead use your knowledge to show your readers your passion: “ After being bombarded with cyber attack after cyber attack, I explained to my grandparents the concept of end-to-end encryption and how phishing was not the same as a peaceful afternoon on a lake. ”

Make it Fun!

Students make the mistake of thinking their college essays have to be serious and hyper-professional. While you don’t want to be throwing around slang and want to present yourself in a positive light, you shouldn’t feel like you’re not allowed to have fun with your essay. Let your personality shine and crack a few jokes.

You can, and should, also get creative with your essay. A great way to do this in a computer science essay is to incorporate lines of code or write the essay like you are writing out code. 

Now we will go over a real “ Why Computer Science? ” essay a student submitted and explore what the essay did well, and where there is room for improvement.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized.

I held my breath and hit RUN. Yes! A plump white cat jumped out and began to catch the falling pizzas. Although my Fat Cat project seems simple now, it was the beginning of an enthusiastic passion for computer science. Four years and thousands of hours of programming later, that passion has grown into an intense desire to explore how computer science can serve society. Every day, surrounded by technology that can recognize my face and recommend scarily-specific ads, I’m reminded of Uncle Ben’s advice to a young Spiderman: “with great power comes great responsibility”. Likewise, the need to ensure digital equality has skyrocketed with AI’s far-reaching presence in society; and I believe that digital fairness starts with equality in education.

The unique use of threads at the College of Computing perfectly matches my interests in AI and its potential use in education; the path of combined threads on Intelligence and People gives me the rare opportunity to delve deep into both areas. I’m particularly intrigued by the rich sets of both knowledge-based and data-driven intelligence courses, as I believe AI should not only show correlation of events, but also provide insight for why they occur.

In my four years as an enthusiastic online English tutor, I’ve worked hard to help students overcome both financial and technological obstacles in hopes of bringing quality education to people from diverse backgrounds. For this reason, I’m extremely excited by the many courses in the People thread that focus on education and human-centered technology. I’d love to explore how to integrate AI technology into the teaching process to make education more available, affordable, and effective for people everywhere. And with the innumerable opportunities that Georgia Tech has to offer, I know that I will be able to go further here than anywhere else.

What the Essay Did Well 

This essay perfectly accomplishes the two key parts of a “ Why Computer Science? ” essay: answering “ Why This Major? ” and “ Why This College? ”. Not to mention, we get a lot of insight into this student and what they care about beyond computer science, and a fun hook at the beginning.

Starting with the “ Why This Major? ” aspect of the response, this essay demonstrates what got the student into computer science, why they are passionate about the subject, and what their goals are. They show us their introduction to the world of CS with an engaging hook: “I held my breath and hit RUN. Yes! A plump white cat jumped out and began to catch the falling pizzas. ” We then see this is a core passion because they spent “ Four years and thousands of hours ,” coding.

The student shows us why they care about AI with the sentence, “ Every day, surrounded by technology that can recognize my face and recommend scarily-specific ads ,” which makes the topic personal by demonstrating their fear at AI’s capabilities. But, rather than let panic overwhelm them, the student calls upon Spiderman and tells us their goal of establishing digital equality through education. This provides a great basis for the rest of the essay, as it thoroughly explains the students motivations and goals, and demonstrates their appreciation for interdisciplinary topics.

Then, the essay shifts into answering “ Why This College? ”, which it does very well by honing in on a unique facet of Georgia Tech’s College of Computing: threads. This is a great example of how to provide depth to the school resources you mention. The student describes the two threads and not only why the combination is important to them, but how their previous experiences (i.e. online English tutor) correlate to the values of the thread: “ For this reason, I’m extremely excited by the many courses in the People thread that focus on education and human-centered technology. ”

What Could Be Improved

This essay does a good job covering the basics of the prompt, but it could be elevated with more nuance and detail. The biggest thing missing from this essay is a strong core to tie everything together. What do we mean by that? We want to see a common theme, anecdote, or motivation that is weaved throughout the entire essay to connect everything. Take the Spiderman quote for example. If this was expanded, it could have been the perfect core for this essay.

Underlying this student’s interest in AI is a passion for social justice, so they could have used the quote about power and responsibility to talk about existing injustices with AI and how once they have the power to create AI they will act responsibly and help affected communities. They are clearly passionate about equality of education, but there is a disconnect between education and AI that comes from a lack of detail. To strengthen the core of the essay, this student needs to include real-world examples of how AI is fostering inequities in education. This takes their essay from theoretical to practical.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a novice trying your hand at college application essays, the review and editing process is crucial. A fresh set of eyes can provide valuable insights into the clarity, coherence, and impact of your writing. Our free Peer Essay Review tool offers a unique platform to get your essay reviewed by another student. Peer reviews can often uncover gaps, provide new insights or enhance the clarity of your essay, making your arguments more compelling. The best part? You can return the favor by reviewing other students’ essays, which is a great way to hone your own writing and critical thinking skills.

For a more professional touch, consider getting your essay reviewed by a college admissions expert . CollegeVine advisors have years of experience helping students refine their writing and successfully apply to top-tier schools. They can provide specific advice on how to showcase your strengths, address any weaknesses, and generally present yourself in the best possible light.

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Computer Science Personal Statement (Guide + Examples!)

Applying to study computer science can be quite a complicated programs. There are so many programs out there with so many application requirements. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

Table of Contents

What Is a computer science personal statement?

In this statement, you’ll need to talk about your motivation for wanting to study computer science, as well as your skills and experience . This is your chance to sell yourself to the admissions committee and demonstrate why you’re the perfect candidate for their program.

Anatomy of a personal statement

1. introduction, 2. your motivation for wanting to study computer science, 3. your skills and experience.

In this section, you’ll need to talk about your skills and experience . What computer science-related courses have you taken? Do you have any industry experience? This is your chance to show the admissions committee that you have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in their program.

4. Conclusion

Who reads my computer science personal statement, how long should my computer science personal statement be.

Your computer science personal statement should be between 500 and 1000 words . This is enough space for you to introduce yourself, talk about your motivation for wanting to study computer science, and discuss your skills and experience.

What should I include in my computer science personal statement?

Your personal statement may also include other information that you feel is important for the admissions committee to know about you. However, make sure that whatever you include is relevant to computer science and will help you stand out as a strong candidate.

What should I not write in my computer science personal statement?

An exception to this is if you’re including information about extenuating circumstances that have impacted your academic performance, in which case you should briefly explain how these circumstances have affected you and why you’re still a strong candidate for their program.

Tips on writing a top-notch computer science personal statement

First, start by brainstorming a list of your computer science-related experiences, skills, and accomplishments . This will give you a good starting point for your personal statement and help you determine what information is most relevant to include.

Computer science personal statement examples

“I have been programming since I was 12 years old, and ever since then I have been fascinated by the possibilities that computer science offers. I am motivated by the idea of being able to create something from scratch and see it come to life, and I know that computer science will allow me to do just that. In addition, I have experience in working with code from different languages, which has taught me how to think critically and solve problems. My skills in critical thinking and problem solving are essential for studying computer science, as they will allow me to tackle complex challenges head-on.

Last year, I also had the opportunity to intern at Lyft, where I worked on a team that developed a new feature for the Lyft app. This experience was invaluable, as it gave me insights into the inner workings of one of the world’s most successful companies. It also showed me how computer science can be used to solve real-world problems.

I am a computer science major at *NAME* University. I have taken several computer science courses and have gotten exceptional grades. My favorite course so far has been Introduction to Algorithms, for which I worked as a teaching assistant during my third year. I also competed in the Association for Computing Machinery International Collegiate Programming Contest, and our team placed in the top 100 out of 6,000 teams worldwide. This experience showed me that I have the ability to solve complex problems and work well under pressure.

I am applying to your program specifically because I believe that it will allow me to further develop my skills in computer science. I am looking forward to taking classes from renowned professors and working with other talented students. I believe that your program will provide me with the skills and knowledge that I need to become a successful computer scientist.”

One of my biggest accomplishments in the field of computer science so far has been developing a computer program that can generate 3D models of human faces. This program has the potential to be used in a variety of applications, such as video game development, computer-aided design, and even law enforcement. I am currently working on submitting this program to a computer science conference for publication.

I believe that my passion for computer science, as well as my experience in the field, makes me an ideal candidate for a graduate program in computer science. I am excited to continue learning and expanding my skills in computer science so that I can make an impact in this field. For this reason, I am excited to submit an early decision application to your computer science graduate program.”

What should I do after I have my first draft?

2. Proofread and edit it : This step is crucial. A well-written and error-free computer science personal statement will make you look more professional and competent. Use spell check and grammar check , and then have someone else proofread it for you.

5. Modify personal statement for each program : Don’t just submit the same computer science personal statement to every program you apply to. Tailor it to each individual program, highlighting why you’re a good fit for that specific school.

Elmar Mammadov is a software developer, tech startup founder, and computer science career specialist. He is the founder of CS Careerline and a true career changer who has previously pursued careers in medicine and neuroscience.

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Computer Science Personal Statement Examples

What is a computer science personal statement?

Your application form features your grades, but the UCAS personal statement is an opportunity to sell youself to the university.

This means you need to include your skills, goals and suitability for the course when drafting a computer science undergraduate or postgraduate personal statement.

Make sure you convey your talents for programming and why you are committed to this course. Read through some of our computer science personal statement examples to see what makes a good and successful statement.

How do I write a computer science personal statement?

When it comes down to how to start a personal statement, don’t tie yourself in knots. Why do you want to study computer science? Personal statements should answer this question, so open with your motivation during your introduction.

Your computer science personal statement should be easy to read, explaining why you have chosen this course and how you intend to work hard to achieve your goals. Give your computer science personal statemen to others to proofread, and ensure the language is concise, makes sense, and is grammatically correct. Don't just rely on a spellchecker for your final draft - read it through yourself, and check for errors thoroughly.

What should I include in my computer science personal statement?

• What subject areas do you enjoy that will support your application? For example, you might pick a topic from your mathematics A level that particularly interests and talk about why you find it fascinating.
• Remember that you can only write one personal statement, so it needs to be suitable for all the universities you are planning on applying to. 
• Talk about your hobbies and extracurricular activities, and how they are relevant - what have you learned from them? Have they inspired you to do anything else? For example, have you built a computer from scratch, or built a new app or website? Are you able to code? If so, what languages can you code in and how did you learn?
• If you’re applying for a postgraduate course, you may want to talk about higher level skills you possess such as innovation, and the results of your final year undergraduate project. 
• Think about your wider reading, e.g. newspapers, magazines, journals, etc. What recent developments interest you, and why are they exciting? Remember, your computer science personal statement needs to stand out from the crowd, so make it as relevant as possible, while giving it your own, unique voice.

How do I write my computer science personal statement introduction?

Try to start your computer science personal statement with a paragraph that will immediately grab the reader's attention. For example, you might relate a story about an experience with computer science when you were a child, such as a birthday present or a day trip with your family. You might also choose to open your statement by talking about one or two aspects of computer science that fascinate you, and why you find them interesting.

For example, this candidate talks about Linux and how they overcame the challenges of using this operating system:

"My views about computing changed considerably when I heard about Linux. In the late nineties it was a newer operating system and tasks like installing and configuring were considered to be quite challenging in India. However, I was intrigued by this challenge and without any formal training I was able to independently install this system. This was due to the sound knowledge I had acquired through reading a vast range of technical books. My fascination towards the evolving IT industry has been growing ever since. "

Not only does this pick out something specific from the world of computing, but shows the reader that the applicant had the persistence and ambition to figure out how to install and use the operating system using textbooks, which is the sort of student they are looking to engage on their course.

Another example is the following candidate, who chose to open their statement by recounting the time they built their first computer:

"Building my first computer was an experience I will never forget. Looking over what seemed to be a city of silicone, I marveled at how elegantly the components were arranged on the motherboard. Yet I did not feel fully satisfied, as I knew there was a whole other world of computing, which could only be explored by completing a degree in computer science.

Studying A Level mathematics has taught me that there are countless methods of approaching a problem and I have also found this to be true of programming."

Again, the student has picked out something specific and told a story, which helps to engage the reader straight away and tells them how interested they are in computing. They then go on to relate their current studies to the course, which is another strength of the opening of this statement.

Hopefully these two examples show how you might put together your own unique opening for your computer science statement, but if you're still struggling, take a look at the rest of our example personal statements .

How do I write a conclusion for my computer science personal statement?

We suggest rounding off your statement with a paragraph about your extracurricular activities and hobbies, and how they relate to your course. For example:

"I also participated at a first-aid national contest organized by the Red Cross Romania, which gave me the opportunity to be the leader of a rescue team. This helped me understand better how to face critical situations and improve my leadership skills.

I often think that computer science will give me the chance to reach higher peaks, and I really consider that it has already helped me see life in a different way. Programming gave me the chance to help many children with special needs, to meet interesting people, to discover a new world. That is exactly why I would like to study and follow a career in this field."

Further resources

For more help and advice on what to write in your computer science personal statement, please see:

• Personal Statement Editing Services
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• The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
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Computer Science Essay Topics

Unleash Your Creativity with 160+ Computer Science Essay Topics

12 min read

Published on: May 5, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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One of the biggest challenges students face when it comes to writing an essay is choosing the right topic. 

This is especially true for computer science students, who often struggle to find a topic that is relevant to the subject.

That's where our blog comes in!

We have crafted a list of over 160 computer science essay topics to help students find inspiration. Whether you're looking to write an impressive essay or simply looking for topic suggestions, we have got you covered.

So, let's get started!

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Computer Science Essay - Overview

A computer science essay is a written piece that explores various topics related to computer science. These include technical and complex topics, like software development and artificial intelligence. They can also explore more general topics, like the history and future of technology.

In most cases, computer science essays are written by students as part of their coursework or academic assignments.

Computer science essays can take many forms, such as research papers, argumentative essays, or even creative writing pieces. 

Regardless of the format, a well-written computer science essay should be informative, engaging, and well-supported by evidence and research.

Now that we understand the purpose of it, let's explore some of the most popular and interesting topics within this field. 

In the following sections, we will dive into over 160 computer science essay topics to inspire your next writing project.

Computer Science Essay Topics For High School Students

• How Artificial Intelligence is Revolutionizing the Gaming Industry
• The Ethics of Autonomous Vehicles: Who is Responsible for Accidents?
• The Role of Computer Science in Modern Healthcare
• The Benefits and Drawbacks of Artificial Intelligence
• The Future of Cybersecurity: Challenges and Opportunities
• How Virtual Reality is Changing the Way We Learn
• The Ethics of Autonomous Vehicles
• The Role of Big Data in Modern Business
• The Pros and Cons of Cloud Computing
• The Implications of Blockchain Technology

Computer Science Essay Topics For Middle School Students

• How Computers Work: An Introduction to Hardware and Software
• The Evolution of Video Games: From Pong to Virtual Reality
• Internet Safety: Tips for Staying Safe Online
• How Search Engines Work: Understanding Google and Bing
• Coding Basics: An Introduction to HTML and CSS
• The Future of Technology: What Will We See in the Next 10 Years?
• The Power of Social Media: How it Impacts Our Lives
• The Ethics of Technology: The Pros and Cons of Social Media
• The Science of Cryptography: How Messages are Secured
• Robots and Artificial Intelligence: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Computer Science Essay Topics For College Students

• The Role of Machine Learning in Business
• Cybersecurity and Data Privacy in the Digital Age
• The Impact of Social Media on Political Campaigns
• The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Systems
• The Future of Cloud Computing and Cloud Storage
• The Use of Blockchain Technology in Financial Services
• The Integration of IoT in Smart Homes and Smart Cities
• The Advancements and Challenges of Quantum Computing
• The Pros and Cons of Open Source Software
• The Impact of Technology on the Job Market: Opportunities and Threats

Computer Science Essay Topics For University Students

• The Application of Machine Learning and Deep Learning in Natural Language Processing
• The Future of Quantum Computing: Challenges and Prospects
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Labor Market: An Empirical Study
• The Ethical Implications of Autonomous Systems and Robotics
• The Role of Data Science in Financial Risk Management
• Blockchain and Smart Contracts: Applications and Limitations
• The Security Challenges of Cloud Computing: A Comparative Analysis
• The Prospects of Cognitive Computing and its Implications for Business Intelligence
• The Integration of IoT and Edge Computing in Smart City Development
• The Relationship between Cybersecurity and National Security: A Theoretical and Empirical Study.

 Research Paper Topics in Computer Science

• Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity: Advancements and Limitations
• Social Media and Mental Health: Implications for Research and Practice
• Blockchain Implementation in Supply Chain Management: A Comparative Study
• Natural Language Processing: Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions
• Edge Computing in IoT: Opportunities and Challenges
• Data Analytics in Healthcare Decision Making: An Empirical Study
• Virtual Reality in Education and Training: Opportunities and Challenges
• Cloud Computing in Developing Countries: Opportunities and Challenges
• Security Risks of Smart Homes and IoT Devices: A Comparative Analysis
• Artificial Intelligence and the Legal Profession: Challenges and Opportunities

Computer Science Essay Topics On Emerging Technologies

• 5G Networks: Trends, Applications, and Challenges
• Augmented Reality in Marketing and Advertising: Opportunities and Challenges
• Quantum Computing in Drug Discovery: A Review of Current Research
• Autonomous Vehicles: Advancements and Challenges in Implementation
• Synthetic Biology: Current Developments and Future Prospects
• Brain-Computer Interfaces: Opportunities and Challenges in Implementation
• Robotics in Healthcare: Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions
• Wearable Technology: Applications and Limitations in Healthcare
• Virtual Assistants: Opportunities and Limitations in Daily Life
• Biometric Authentication: Advancements and Challenges in Implementation

Computer Science Essay Topics On Solving Problems

• Using Artificial Intelligence to solve traffic congestion problems
• Implementing Machine Learning to predict and prevent cyber-attacks
• Developing a Computer Vision system to detect early-stage skin cancer
• Using Data Analytics to improve energy efficiency in buildings
• Implementing an IoT-based solution for monitoring and reducing air pollution
• Developing a software system for optimizing supply chain management
• Using Blockchain to secure and manage digital identities
• Implementing a Smart Grid system for energy distribution and management
• Developing a mobile application for emergency response and disaster management
• Using Robotics to automate and optimize warehouse operations.

Computer Science Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the development of autonomous weapons be banned?
• Is social media addiction a mental health disorder?
• Should governments regulate the use of artificial intelligence in decision-making?
• Is online privacy a fundamental human right?
• Should companies be held liable for data breaches?
• Is net neutrality necessary for a free and open internet?
• Should software piracy be treated as a criminal offense?
• Should online hate speech be regulated by law?
• Is open-source software better than proprietary software?
• Should governments use surveillance technology to prevent crime?

Computer Science Persuasive Essay Topics

• Should coding be a mandatory subject in schools?
• Is artificial intelligence a threat to human jobs?
• Should the use of drones for commercial purposes be regulated?
• Is encryption important for online security?
• Should governments provide free Wi-Fi in public spaces?
• Is cyberbullying a serious problem in schools?
• Should social media platforms regulate hate speech?
• Is online voting a viable option for elections?
• Should algorithms be used in decision-making processes in the criminal justice system?
• Should governments invest in space exploration and colonization?

 Current Hot Topics in Computer Science

• The ethical implications of facial recognition technology
• The role of blockchain in data security and privacy
• The future of quantum computing and its potential applications
• The challenges and opportunities of implementing machine learning in healthcare
• The impact of big data on business operations and decision-making
• The potential of augmented and virtual reality in education and training
• The role of computer science in addressing climate change and sustainability
• The social and cultural implications of social media algorithms
• The intersection of computer science and neuroscience in developing artificial intelligence

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Controversial Topics in Computer Science

• The ethics of Artificial Intelligence
• The dark side of the Internet
• The impact of social media on mental health
• The role of technology in political campaigns
• The ethics of autonomous vehicles
• The responsibility of tech companies in preventing cyberbullying
• The use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement
• The impact of automation on employment
• The future of privacy in a digital world
• The dangers of deep face technology

Good Essay Topics on Computer Science and Systems

• The history of computers and computing
• The impact of computers on society
• The evolution of computer hardware and software
• The role of computers in education
• The future of quantum computing
• The impact of computers on the music industry
• The use of computers in medicine and healthcare
• The role of computers in space exploration
• The impact of video games on cognitive development
• The benefits and drawbacks of cloud computing

Simple & Easy Computers Essay Topics

• How to choose the right computer for your needs
• The basics of computer hardware and software
• The importance of computer maintenance and upkeep
• How to troubleshoot common computer problems
• The role of computers in modern business
• The impact of computers on communication
• How to protect your computer from viruses and malware
• The basics of computer programming
• How to improve your computer skills
• The benefits of using a computer for personal finance management.

Computer Science Extended Essay Topics

• The impact of Artificial Intelligence on the job market
• The development of a smart home system using IoT
• The use of Blockchain in supply chain management
• The future of quantum computing in cryptography
• Developing an AI-based chatbot for customer service
• The use of Machine Learning for credit scoring
• The development of an autonomous drone delivery system
• The role of Big Data in predicting and preventing natural disasters
• The potential of Robotics in agriculture
• The impact of 5G on the Internet of Things

Long Essay Topics In Computer Science

• The ethical implications of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• Exploring the potential of quantum computing and its impact on cryptography.
• The use of big data in healthcare: Opportunities and challenges.
• The future of autonomous vehicles and their impact on transportation and society.
• The role of blockchain technology in securing digital transactions and information.
• The impact of social media and algorithms on the spread of misinformation.
• The ethics of cybersecurity and the role of governments in protecting citizens online.
• The potential of virtual reality and augmented reality in education and training.
• The impact of cloud computing on business and IT infrastructure.
• The challenges and opportunities of developing sustainable computing technologies

Most Interesting Computers Topics

• The rise of artificial intelligence in information technology: opportunities and challenges.
• The evolution of programming languages and their impact on software development.
• The future of pursuing computer science education: online learning vs traditional classroom.
• The impact of virtualization on computer systems and their scalability.
• Cybersecurity threats in information technology: prevention and mitigation strategies.
• An analysis of the most popular programming languages and their advantages and disadvantages.
• The role of cloud computing in the digital transformation of businesses.
• Emerging trends in pursuing computer science education: personalized learning and adaptive assessments.
• Developing secure computer systems for critical infrastructure: challenges and solutions.
• The potential of quantum computing in revolutionizing information technology and programming languages.

How To Choose The Right Computer Science Essay Topic

Choosing the right computer science essay topic can be a challenging task. Here are some tips to help you select the best topic for your essay:

• Consider your Interests

Choose a topic that you are genuinely interested in. This will help you to stay motivated and engaged throughout the writing process.

• Do your Research

Spend some time researching different computer science topics to identify areas that interest you and have plenty of research material available.

• Narrow Down Your Focus

Once you have a list of potential topics, narrow down your focus to a specific aspect or issue within that topic.

• Consider the Audience

Think about who your audience is and choose a topic that is relevant to their interests or needs.

• Evaluate The Scope Of The Topic

Make sure that the topic you choose is not too broad or too narrow. You want to have enough material to write a comprehensive essay, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming.

Take some time to brainstorm different ideas and write them down. This can help you to identify patterns or themes that you can use to develop your topic.

• Consult With Your Instructor

If you're struggling to come up with a topic, consider consulting with your instructor or a tutor. They can provide you with guidance and feedback to help you choose the right topic.

Tips To Write An Effective Computer Science Essay

Writing an effective computer science essay requires careful planning and execution. Here are some tips to help you write a great essay:

• Start with a clear thesis statement: Your thesis statement should be concise and clearly state the purpose of your essay.
• Use evidence to support your arguments: Use credible sources to back up your arguments. Also, make sure to properly cite your sources.
• Write in a clear and concise manner: Use simple and straightforward language to convey your ideas. Avoid using technical jargon that your audience may not understand.
• Use diagrams and visual aids: If appropriate, use diagrams and visual aids to help illustrate your ideas. This will make your essay look more engaging.
• Organize your essay effectively: Use clear and logical headings and subheadings to organize your essay and make it easy to follow.
• Proofread and edit: Before submitting, make sure to carefully proofread your essay to ensure that it is free of errors.
• Seek feedback: Get feedback from others, to help you identify areas where you can improve your writing.

By following these tips, you can write an effective computer science essay that engages your audience and effectively communicates your ideas.

In conclusion, computer science is a vast and exciting field that offers a wide range of essay topics for students. 

Whether you're writing about emerging technologies, or hot topics in computer science, there are plenty of options to choose from.

To choose the right topic for your essay, consider your interests, the assignment requirements, and the audience you are writing for. Once you have a topic in mind, follow the tips we've outlined to write an effective essay that engages your audience.

If you're struggling to write your computer science essay, consider hiring our professional essay writing - CollegeEssay.org. 

We offer a range of services, including essay writing, editing, and proofreading, to help students achieve their academic goals.

With our essay writer AI , you can take your writing to the next level and succeed in your studies. 

So why wait? Visit our computer science essay writing service and see how we can help you!

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how to write a 'why computer science major' essay.

Hi everyone, I need to write an essay about why I want to major in computer science for my college applications. I'm having trouble articulating my reasons. Does anyone have advice on how to write a strong essay for this topic? Thanks a ton!

Hi there! Writing a strong essay for the 'Why Computer Science Major' topic is about showcasing your passion for the subject and how it connects to your future goals. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling essay:

1. Start with a personal anecdote: Begin your essay with a personal story or experience that piqued your interest in computer science. This will make your essay engaging and show how your passion has developed over time.

2. Explain your genuine interest in the subject: Discuss specific aspects of computer science that interest you, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or software development. Don't be afraid to dive into the technicalities, as it shows your depth of understanding and engagement with the subject.

3. Highlight relevant experiences: Showcase any experiences you've had that relate to computer science, such as coding projects, internships, or participation in hackathons. This demonstrates that you've taken the initiative to explore the subject beyond schoolwork.

4. Discuss your future goals: Explain how a computer science degree will help you achieve your career goals. This could range from developing new software that has a social impact, to working in the field of cybersecurity or AI research.

5. Show your familiarity with the college's program: Research the college's computer science program and mention specific aspects that appeal to you, such as faculty members, research opportunities, or unique courses offered. This shows that you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in attending that particular school.

6. Conclude with a clear, concise statement: Sum up your main reasons for pursuing a computer science major and how the college's program will help you achieve your goals.

Click here to learn more: https://blog.collegevine.com/why-computer-science-essay/

Remember to be genuine and passionate in your essay. If you follow these tips and convey your enthusiasm for computer science, you'll be on your way to crafting a strong essay for your college applications. Good luck!

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Personal statement advice: computer science

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What to include in your computer science statement

• A strong opening: explain succinctly where your enthusiasm for computer science comes from, and why – but avoid the temptation to begin with a potted history describing when you got your first computer!
• How you're engaged with the subject: talk about what’s inspiring you or motivating you to study it, whether it’s a relevant book or news articles you’ve read, or maybe a bit of programming you've done.
• An understanding of what's involved: tutors love to read statements where your enthusiasm for the subject comes across, alongside a clear sense that you understand what computer science as a discipline is all about. Don't actually tell them what it is – they know that already. Show them that you know.
• Your personal goals: what are you hoping to achieve by studying this subject for the next three to four years?
• Show you're a team player: according to the engineering and computer science department at Durham University, 'try to write about how you work with others. Have you been part of a team or led a team? Have you had to organise something complex such as an event, a play or a football league?'

Computer science personal statement pitfalls

• Not standing out: Professor Lowe from the University of Oxford says that lots of the personal statements he sees 'are similar, bland, impersonal and don’t stand out – so make it personal, specific, and concrete'.
• Using clichés: avoid phrases such as 'computers are important in the modern world' or just saying 'I’m fascinated by artificial intelligence' without explaining why.
• Quoting Wikipedia: 'We already know what computer science is so we don’t need a Wikipedia definition. We’re interested in your understanding of it and your desire to learn', Robert Zimmer from Goldsmiths adds.

Engagement with the subject

Admissions tutors at University of Portsmouth and University of Warwick both agreed that clichés like ‘I want to do computing because it’s the future’ or opening lines like ‘I got my first computer when I was three’ are a big turn-off.

However, they do like to see evidence of your most recent engagement with the subject, or something current that’s inspired you. In fact, the kind of statement that would really hit the mark would include your reflections on some or all of the following:

• a programme you wrote or side project you've been working on
• an internship or some relevant work experience you did
• how your studies or wider reading have boosted your understanding or sparked your curiosity
• your opinions on a key topic such as data privacy
• any extracurricular interests that have given you relevant transferable skills
• an area or module you're particularly looking forward to studying. Something along those lines should engage the tutor reading your statement

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Application Instructions: Writing a Strong Personal Statement

——— this content was revised june, 2024 ———————————.

As part of your admissions application to a Penn Engineering Online degree program, you’ll need to write a personal statement—an essay designed to help us get to know the real person behind your grades and test scores. A strong personal statement can tip the scales in your favor, so we encourage you to give it your best effort.

What is the personal statement?

The personal statement is a 1,000-1,500 word essay that answers the following questions for your selected program. We encourage you to include detailed, specific examples from your academic, research or industry work if possible.

• What makes you interested in this degree program?
• How will you benefit from the program?
• Why will you succeed in the program?
• How will you contribute to the community?
• How do you plan to incorporate an average of 15 hours per week per course of studies into your lifestyle?
• Please describe your career goals and how the curriculum will help to achieve them.
• For MCIT Online applicants only : Given that the program is designed for people without a CS background, if you feel that your resume could be perceived as overqualified, please explain why MCIT Online is right for you.

Reapplicants:

If you have already applied to a Penn Engineering Online degree program in the past, please address this additional required question in your personal statement essay (250 words): 

• Please discuss any updates to your candidacy since you last applied (e.g., changes in your professional life, additional coursework, extracurricular/volunteer engagements). If after reading our online materials you think your application may have been perceived as overqualified, please explain why this program is right for you.

How can I make my personal statement stand out?

Write authentically, from the heart. Express your passion for computer science and explain why you are a good fit for the program. We won’t have the opportunity to interview you, so the personal statement is your chance to showcase your strengths and explain discrepancies.

• Address potential weaknesses in your application. Are there gaps or inconsistent grades in your academic history, particularly in quantitative ability ? Use the personal statement to provide context—and to give examples of how you will do better. It’s also an opportunity to explain why you’re a good fit for the program even if you appear to be overqualified.
• Read the questions carefully. A personal statement that doesn’t fully address the questions could hurt your chances of admittance.
• Explain how you will manage your time during the program. Each course requires a commitment of about 15-18 hours a week . How will you juggle that with your other commitments, especially if you are currently enrolled in another degree program?
• Share your accomplishments. Have you done any online learning or taken additional coursework to prepare for the program?  The personal statement is an opportunity to highlight those achievements.
• Get a second opinion. Once you’ve written a draft, ask someone who knows you well to read it. An extra set of eyes is essential to help you avoid typos and make a clear and compelling case for your candidacy.

Get more tips on letters of recommendation by watching our Application Guide or by browsing our collection of recent Admissions Webinar Recordings . You can find additional support by exploring our comprehensive FAQs . You can also contact us at any time to connect directly with our team for support as you work on assembling your application — we’d love to hear from you!

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Essay Samples on Computer Science

Computer science is a rapidly evolving field that is transforming the world as we know it. As a student, writing a computer science essay is an excellent opportunity to showcase your knowledge and passion for the subject. It is essential to choose a relevant and engaging topic for your essay, such as the latest trends and innovations in computer science or the impact of computer science on society.

Some computer science essay topics to consider include the role of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity, the ethical implications of big data, or the future of quantum computing. These topics are highly relevant and offer plenty of opportunities for research and analysis.

It is important to note that computer science essays require a clear and concise writing style. Avoid technical jargon that may confuse your reader, and instead, focus on conveying your ideas in a way that is easy to understand. Use clear examples and analogies to help your reader grasp complex concepts.

When writing computer science essays, it is crucial to include examples to illustrate your points effectively. You can look for computer science essay examples online to gain inspiration and ideas for your essay. Essay examples at WritingBros can help you understand the structure and format of an excellent computer science essay and provide you with ideas for your research.

Computer Science Career Goals

Computer science career goals form the foundation of individuals' aspirations to explore, innovate, and create in the realm of technology. In a world characterized by rapid technological advancements, computer scientists play a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape and driving transformative change. This essay...

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The Development of Minecraft Game and The Science in It

Minecraft is undoubtedly one of the most influential video games of all time. Created by a Swedish game developer, Markus 'Notch' Persson, and released by Mojang back in 2011, Minecraft already surpassed a million purchases within the first month of its beta phase gaining its...

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The Integrality of Computer Technology in the Wal-Mart Corporation

Walmart corporation is an American worldwide retail company that works a chain of hypermarkets, discounted retail chains, and supermarkets. Decision making is one of the most critical activities in any organization. Walmart handles their decision making process like any other big corporation by following a...

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The Sociology of Human Relations in The Imitation Game

Friendship is one of the most important and valuable things in our lives. It lets us measure a person. Companionship is essential for the psychological wellbeing of every person. All relationships are formed through the mutual regard of individuals with affection, trust, and respect. The...

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The Key Achievements of Alan Turing: The Father of Modern Computers

Introduction In this report, I am aiming to highlight the key achievements of Alan Turing, and how his work innovated computing. I will be looking into what impact Turing’s Bombe had on what computers are like today, and how it got ‘the ball rolling’ for...

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Alan Turing: The Father of Modern Computer Science

The computers today are extremely advanced. They have progressed far faster than scientists years ago would have even dreamed. A lot of the things that Science Fiction movies used as gags that seemed impossible back when they were created are now realities. Just look at...

How Scholaships Benefit the Self-Confidence of Students

As an international graduate student pursuing Computer Science at Texas A&M University-Commerce, I am submitting a scholarship application for “____” For me, this scholarship is especially important as it embodies the qualities I believe I exhibit as a person and as a student. The cost...

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Advantages And Disadvantages Of DeepFake Technology

DeepFake is a technology which has been around for past few years. It is a video editing technology based on complex Deep Learning computer algorithms and Artificial Intelligence (A. I. ). Basically, it uses algorithms to mark points on a human face which can be...

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Computer Science – An Area To Realise My Potential

The catalyst for my my interest in computer science was found back in year nine, when I discovered Apple’s Swift programming language and the iOS development frameworks. Armed with these, I devoured hours upon hours of lectures and programming talks and undertook multiple personal projects....

• Personal Growth and Development

Human Computer Interaction: Brain Computing Interface

INTRODUCTION Brain Computer Interface (BCI) technology is a powerful communication tool between users and systems. It does not require any external devices or muscle intervention to issue commands and complete the interaction. The research community has initially developed BCIs with biomedical applications in mind, leading...

• Artificial Intelligence

Ice Hockey and Computer Science: My Diverging Passions

When people think of me they think of a hockey player: an athletic, aggressive kid who is always out on pond somewhere in the Canadian wilderness. They would never think of me as someone who likes to sit at a desk and write software, and...

An Expanded Definition Of Wikipedia

Starting from the year 2001 on January 15th, the world came to know about a web-based tool sophisticated enough to have knowledge of anything in the world. This same website would soon become an unreliable source for research. Founded by Jimmy Wales to support his...

History Of The Invention Of Computers

As Charles Babbage quotes ‘At each increase of knowledge, as well as on the contrivance of every new tool, human labour becomes abridged’. As Charles quoted that new things are achieved by new knowledge or thoughts, I will have to talk about people who were...

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History Of The Personal Computer (PC) And Its Effect On Modern Society

This paper analyzes the events that led up to the germination of the Personal Computer (PC). This paper also explores how the Personal Computer has affected our modern society, science, as well as technology. Aside from that, the paper describes the main parts of the...

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How To Succeed As A Solo Librarian

Almost 50 librarians from education, legal, university colleges, industry and government libraries took part in our Melbourne National Liberty User Group Conference and Masterclass in late August with some taking the opportunity to visit the MCC library. They all had a great time and we...

My Motivation To Take The Master's Program In Data Science / Computer Science

Someone once said, “Other people know who you are by what you have achieved, but you know yourself by what you are capable of doing”. If I was to introduce myself to one, I would call myself a strong, independent and adaptable woman. My life...

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The Origin Of The Artificial Intelligence

Abstract From remote times, the history of the human being is developed by a successive chain of steps and sometimes jumps, until the relative sophistication of the modern brain and its culture. The historical origin of the Artificial Intelligence is usually established at Darmouth Conference...

Becoming A Computer Scientist – My American Dream

Many individuals would agree that the world’s not fair and it’s never going to be. Whether someone expects or believes that they’ll achieve their American Dream, there are times where the chances of getting to that point are slim. However, I believe that the American...

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My Motivation To Take A Masters Course In Computer Science

“Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.” — Albert Einstein During the carefree days of my early childhood I was fond of watching television. We had a Solitaire television set, those with wooden shutters encompassing the television body. In an untoward...

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My Motivation To Study Computer Science And Mathematics At University

To me, Maths is one of the most fascinating subjects. I enjoy it as it requires a high level of rigor, clear logical flow, and requires me to critically analyze all statements, even my own. Calculus and sequences, in particular, interest me due to the...

The Techniques For Provisioning Components Of Component-Based Software Development

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Methods In A Software Development Project

Neither agile nor plan-driven processes/methods provide a silver bullet. Future trends are toward application developments that need both agile and plan-driven. There is more risk to select either plan driven or agile approach, to have mixture of matching practices from both approaches is of better...

The Development Of IT And Society

IT stands for 'Information Technology'. Those two words, according to Harvard Business Review, were first used in an article published in 1958 by Harold J. Leavitt and Thomas L.Whisler. Words, which were used became now widespread around the world. Mainly because IT is undoubtedly one...

Malicious Website Collection System Using Machine Learning

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Ubiquitous Computing & Transportation Industries

Introduction The definition of phrase “ubiquitous computing” means a concept in software engineering and computer science where computing is made to appear anytime and everywhere. In a simple sentence, it means that everything that we used or face everyday will sort of computer system. The...

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Best topics on Computer Science

1. Computer Science Career Goals

2. The Development of Minecraft Game and The Science in It

3. The Integrality of Computer Technology in the Wal-Mart Corporation

4. The Sociology of Human Relations in The Imitation Game

5. The Key Achievements of Alan Turing: The Father of Modern Computers

6. Alan Turing: The Father of Modern Computer Science

7. How Scholaships Benefit the Self-Confidence of Students

8. Advantages And Disadvantages Of DeepFake Technology

9. Computer Science – An Area To Realise My Potential

10. Human Computer Interaction: Brain Computing Interface

11. Ice Hockey and Computer Science: My Diverging Passions

12. An Expanded Definition Of Wikipedia

13. History Of The Invention Of Computers

14. History Of The Personal Computer (PC) And Its Effect On Modern Society

15. How To Succeed As A Solo Librarian

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How to write a compelling statement of purpose for graduate school.

A statement of purpose (SOP) is a critical component of most graduate school applications, and are often required for various types of graduate level programs, including Graduate Certificates and Master’s Degrees .

An SOP offers you the opportunity to showcase your motivations, qualifications, and aspirations to a school’s Office of Admissions. Crafting an effective SOP requires careful planning and attention to detail. Whether you're applying to Stanford or any other institution, here's a guide on how to write a standout statement of purpose that shows how your goals align with the program's expectations.

Understanding the Prompt

A prompt's comprehensive nature offers you the chance to provide a holistic view of your journey, motivations, and aspirations. Be sure to check the websites of any programs you’re applying to, as they often have additional information or suggested frameworks to get you started.

Stanford Master’s Degree

If you are applying to a Stanford master’s degree program , the recommended maximum length for your SOP is 1,000 words and the prompt for the statement of purpose emphasizes several key elements:

• Reasons for applying
• Preparation for the field of study
• Research interests
• Future career plans
• Relevant aspects of your background

Stanford Graduate Certificate

If you are applying to take individual graduate courses or pursue a graduate certificate through Stanford Online, the prompt contains less elements than for the master’s program. This statement of purpose should be brief, as you’re limited to 4000 characters. You should summarize:

• Specific course work on your transcript that meets the course and or certificate prerequisites
• Relevant aspects of your professional experience

Tips for Writing your Statement of Purpose

After you fully understand the prompt for the program you’re applying to, use these tips to guide your writing:

• Be Concise and Focused Most institutions have maximum lengths for words or characters. With limited space, it's important to be concise and focused. Use each word purposefully to convey your message. Ensure that every paragraph adds value and contributes to your overall narrative.
• Start Strong Your opening should be attention-grabbing. Consider sharing a personal anecdote, a relevant quote, or a thought-provoking question that sets the tone for your SOP. Engaging the reader from the beginning can make your statement more memorable.
• Address the Prompt Thoroughly Cover each aspect of the prompt thoroughly, addressing your reasons for applying, your background preparation, your research interests, and your future career plans. Use specific examples to illustrate your points. For instance, if you're applying to a computer science program, discuss projects, coursework, or experiences that highlight your passion and readiness for further study in this field.
• Showcase Fit with the Program Demonstrate a clear understanding of the program you're applying to and explain why it's an ideal fit for your academic and career goals. Highlight specific courses, professors, research opportunities, or unique features of the program that attracted you. This showcases your commitment to the program and demonstrates that you've done your research. You may consider including reasons your presence will benefit the program as your uniqueness may help set you apart from other applicants.
• Highlight Research Interests Discuss your research interests in detail. Explain how your past experiences have shaped your interests and how the program's resources can help you further develop them. Share any relevant research projects you've been a part of and explain their impact on your academic journey. If your program includes a capstone, you may want to include more actionable, compelling examples.
• Connect to Your Future Career Articulate your future career plans and explain how the program will prepare you for success. Whether you plan to pursue academia, industry, or another path, convey how the skills and knowledge gained from the program will contribute to your career trajectory.
• Weave in Personal Background Share aspects of your personal background that are relevant to your journey. This could include challenges you've overcome, experiences that have shaped your perspective, or unique qualities that set you apart. Ensure that these details contribute to your overall narrative and that adding them showcases your qualifications.
• Edit and Proofread After writing your SOP, review it meticulously for grammar, punctuation, and clarity. Typos and errors can detract from the impact of your statement. Consider seeking feedback from mentors, professors, or peers to ensure your SOP effectively conveys your message.
• Tailor for Specific Programs If you're applying to multiple programs, make sure to customize each SOP to align with the specific program's offerings and requirements. Avoid using a generic SOP for all applications, this tends to be very noticeable to admissions.
• Seek Inspiration from Examples If you’re applying to a Stanford Master’s program, the Stanford Graduate Admissions website provides specific guidance on the statement of purpose. Review your program’s recommendations and, if available, consider reading sample SOPs from successful applicants to gather inspiration and insights.

Writing a compelling statement of purpose for graduate school requires thoughtful reflection, careful planning, and clear communication. By addressing the prompt comprehensively, showcasing your fit with the program, and demonstrating your passion and readiness, you can craft an SOP that stands out and may even increase your chances of admission to your desired program. Although it’s far from the only criteria that will be considered in the admissions process, your SOP is your chance to tell your unique story and show why you are a perfect candidate for graduate study. We hope you find this guide useful as you write your statement of purpose, please know that following this guide does not guarantee your admission to any program.

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Writing for Computer Science

• © 2014
• Latest edition
• Justin Zobel 0

University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia

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• Extensive guidance on writing and presentation skills for researchers and practitioners in the field of Computer Science
• A comprehensive introduction to research methods and scientific writing for computer scientists
• An overview of the skills that a student needs to become an effective researcher
• Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

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About this book

All researchers need to write or speak about their work, and to have research  that is worth presenting. Based on the author's decades of experience as a researcher and advisor, this third edition provides detailed guidance on writing and presentations and a comprehensive introduction to research methods, the how-to of being a successful scientist. 

Topics include:

·         Development of ideas into research questions;

·         How to find, read, evaluate and referee other research;

·         Design and evaluation of experiments and appropriate use of statistics;

·         Ethics, the principles of science and examples of science gone wrong.

Much of the book is a step-by-step guide to effective communication, with advice on:

 ·         Writing style and editing;

·         Figures, graphs and tables;

·         Mathematics and algorithms;

·         Literature reviews and referees’ reports;

·         Structuring of arguments and results into papers and theses;

·         Writing of other professional documents;

·         Presentation of talks and posters.

Written in an accessible style and including handy checklists and exercises, Writing for Computer Science is not only an introduction to the doing and describing of research, but is a valuable reference for working scientists in the computing and mathematical sciences.

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Computer science: Subject, fundamental research problems, methodology, structure, and applied problems

Seventy Years of Computer Science

The Mathematical Origins of Modern Computing

• Effective Communication
• Organization
• Presentation of Ideas
• Scientific Research
• Writing Style

Table of contents (17 chapters)

Front matter, introduction.

Justin Zobel

Getting Started

Reading and reviewing, hypotheses, questions, and evidence, writing a paper, style specifics, punctuation, mathematics, graphs, figures, and tables, other professional writing, experimentation, statistical principles, presentations, back matter.

“This is a comprehensive guide on research methods and how to produce a scientific publication detailing one’s research in computer science … . a must-read for those doing research in CS and related fields. It will greatly benefit anyone who is involved in any kind of scientific research, as the examples are only from the CS field. Students, researchers, scientists, and other academicians involved in scientific research will improve both their research methods and writing by reading this book.” (Alexis Leon, Computing Reviews, July, 2015)

Authors and Affiliations

About the author.

Justin Zobel is Head of the University of Melbourne's Department of Computing & Information Systems. He received his PhD from the University of Melbourne and for many years was based at RMIT University, where he led the Search Engine group. As a researcher, Professor Zobel is best known for his role in the development of algorithms for efficient web search. His current research areas include search, measurement and evaluation, bioinformatics, fundamental algorithms and data structures and compression. He is an author of around 200 papers, has written three texts on postgraduate study and research methods and is an associate editor of ACM Transactions on Information Systems, Information Processing & Management, and Information Retrieval.

Bibliographic Information

Book Title : Writing for Computer Science

Authors : Justin Zobel

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-6639-9

Publisher : Springer London

eBook Packages : Computer Science , Computer Science (R0)

Copyright Information : Springer-Verlag London 2014

Softcover ISBN : 978-1-4471-6638-2 Published: 17 February 2015

eBook ISBN : 978-1-4471-6639-9 Published: 09 February 2015

Edition Number : 3

Number of Pages : XIII, 284

Number of Illustrations : 28 b/w illustrations

Topics : Popular Computer Science , Computer Science, general

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Essays on Computer Science

What is your computer science essay about? Regardless of your topic, there are informative samples of essays below you can find helpful. Computer science studies methods of accumulation, transmission, and processing of information using computers, and human activity associated with it. Some essays on computer science study its history. It is known that computer science was acknowledged as such in the XX century, in association with the development of computer technology, but its concept emerged in the 60s in France. People write computer science essays to underline the development and purpose of computer science, which is often called “informatics”. This term was formed by combining French words “information” and “automation”. Currently, computer science and its practical uses are becoming a driving force of scientific and technological progress and development of society. Compare our computer science essay samples to your essay to find any points that may need correcting or clarifying.

The Benefits of Studying Computer Science at Webster University The choice to study computer science at Webster University is motivated by its core strengths and unique culture, which include: trans-world research, tacit skills and knowledge, innovation, global alliance, education, and the sharing of resources. These strengths enable the students at Webster...

The selected article is titled “As Twitter's Algorithm Evolves, is it Time to Update Your Tweet Marketing Tactics?” The article was written by Andrew Hutchinson and published on the Social Media Today website on 17 September 2017. In the article, it is pointed out that if one has noticed a...

In the recent times In the recent times, there has been a lot of automation as well as computerization of processes in industries, businesses, and lifestyles of people. Therefore, computer-related careers have become very marketable. Computer science is one of those disciplines that put people on the path to becoming the...

Words: 1523

Greetings! I pray you are doing well as I write this. I am writing to suggest Mark Messay Ellis for the University of Texas (UT), Austin, Texas, Computer Science Course. I am more than 99% certain that he possesses the knowledge, experience, and skills required to follow the aforementioned course, and...

A geometrical method of multiplying two vectors is the cross product. The symbol "" designates this as a three-dimensional product method. This product technique has a wide range of uses in physics, engineering, and computer science. Dot and cross products have some similarities because they both use a three-dimensional method,...

Words: 2565

A computer and computer software are a symbol-manipulation machine that has been programmed. It has a large storage capacity and responds to a collection of instructions in a predictable manner (Ling ll look at how to figure out which is the best deal between a laptop and a desktop...

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The advancement in computational power, particularly among computers, logical programmable units, communications link and networking, artificial intelligence, and robotics, has provided the world with a more efficient and faster way to improve the way we interact, whether by communications or performing complex tasks such as scientific computations, simulations, and even...

Words: 3037

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Labor Market Humans have proved over time to be imaginative and inventive enough to influence developments that were previously just imagined. Today, we have accepted technology as a part of our everyday lives and it does too much for us to make our lives easier....

Computers in Early Childhood Education Computers surround the young children in the community, homes and early childhood schooling programs. Therefore teachers need to build laptop literacy at this very early age. Facilitating young children to have the knowledge and improvement in computers plays an integral phase in their educational careers. Careful...

Why I Chose to Pursue Computer Science and Astronomy Every person has different motivations for pursuing a specific desire or goal; in my case, both goals need focus. For a long time, I have wished to major in computer science and astronomy in order to help realize my childhood dreams and...

All is now possible and available thanks to the technological revolution. Most citizens consider computer science to be the pinnacle of living around machines. However, it has less to do with computing and much to do with what computers can do and how they can help the human race communicate themselves. I...

The introduction of the Internet signaled the beginning of a new age of how humans perform their business. Technology advancements have allowed a person in the Arctic to video chat with a colleague in the most distant region of the African continent. Furthermore, large amounts of data can be stored...

Words: 4952

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Extended Essay

Extended Essays in Computer Science are not easy to do. Computer Science is counted as an experimental science by the IB and thus requires you to do some kind of experiment in the realm of computer science and then report your findings.

As so few students attempt a CS EE every year, coming up with a ‘good’ CS EE topic will be half your struggle.

IB guidance on EEs

General IB Extended Essay

Specific IB EE Guidance on Computer Science

Topic guidance for Computer Science

EE mark scheme (new)

EE mark scheme guidance

EE mark scheme guidance (specifically for Computer Science)

RPPF form (must be included in final submission)

Examples of Topics 

Below are some examples of what topics our students have been doing recently (including the grade they received from the IB). Obviously, you cannot take any of these topics as it would flag as cheating; they are posted to give you an idea of the TYPE of topic that gets a good grade.

Past essays  

Because of plagiarism concerns, we cannot share any essays from past students on this site, but you are welcome to visit LD Anderson’s CS EE world site:  CS EE World

Home › Study Tips › How To Write a College Essay and Help Your Application Stand Out

How To Write a College Essay and Help Your Application Stand Out

• Published June 24, 2024

The college application essay is a pivotal component of your application package. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase your individuality and stand out from the sea of applicants. While admissions committees place significant weight on grades and test scores, the essay allows you to demonstrate your writing skills and convey your personal story. This guide will provide you with top tips to craft a compelling college essay that resonates with admissions officers.

Write About Something That Is Important to You

Choosing a topic that is authentic and meaningful to you is crucial. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so writing about something genuinely important to you will make your essay more engaging and memorable. Think about your passions, significant experiences, or values that define who you are. Avoid topics that you think will simply impress the committee and focus on what truly matters to you. For instance, instead of writing about a generic achievement, you might write about a personal challenge you’ve overcome, explaining how it has shaped your perspective and aspirations.

Read our article 9 Tips to Writing an Academic Essay  

Grab the Reader’s Attention from the Start

The opening of your essay is your first chance to capture the reader’s attention. A compelling introduction sets the tone for the rest of the essay. Consider starting with a vivid anecdote, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question. The goal is to pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. For example, a captivating story from your childhood or a defining moment can serve as a powerful hook.

Focus on Deeper Themes and Take the Chance to Reflect

Your essay should delve into deeper themes and provide personal reflections. This is your opportunity to take control of your narrative and showcase your unique perspective. Rather than just recounting events, explain their significance and how they have influenced your thoughts, actions, and goals. Reflecting on your experiences allows you to demonstrate critical thinking and self-awareness, qualities that colleges value. Highlighting the lessons learned from these experiences can make your essay more profound and relatable.

Avoid Clichés

Avoiding clichés is a crucial aspect of writing your essay. Clichés can make your essay seem unoriginal and uninspired, which is not the impression you want to leave on the admissions committee. Common clichés include overused quotes, predictable stories, and generic statements. Strive to present your experiences and insights in a fresh and personal way. This will make your essay stand out and feel more genuine. Personal anecdotes and unique perspectives are more likely to leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee, thereby increasing your chances of admission.

Prepare Early and Work on Several Drafts

Starting early gives you ample time to brainstorm, write, and revise your essay. Don’t expect to get it perfect on the first try. Write multiple drafts, each time refining your ideas, structure, and language. This process allows you to improve your essay’s clarity and impact. Consistent revision helps you polish your essay to meet the highest standards.

Discover these expert’s tips for improving your writing skills 

Get Someone to Check Your Application

Having someone else review your essay can provide valuable feedback. Choose people who are familiar with the college application process, such as teachers, mentors, or family members. They can offer insights on how to improve your essay and catch any errors you might have missed. Incorporating constructive criticism will enhance the overall quality of your essay.

Avoid Items That Are Not Part of the College Application

Stay focused on the content that is relevant to your application. Avoid including extraneous information or going off on tangents. Stick to the guidelines provided by the college and ensure that every part of your essay contributes to the overall narrative. This focused approach keeps your essay concise and impactful.

Try Something Different

Don’t be afraid to take creative risks with your essay. An unconventional approach can make your essay stand out as long as it remains relevant and coherent. Creativity can showcase your unique voice and perspective, making your essay more memorable. A distinctive format or innovative structure can set your essay apart from others.

Meet the Deadline

Meeting application deadlines is not just a formality, but a crucial step in the college application process. Late submissions can disqualify your application or leave a negative impression. Plan your timeline carefully and ensure you submit your essay well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues. Timely submission demonstrates your commitment, responsibility, and organization, all of which are qualities that colleges value.

A well-crafted college application essay is fundamental to securing admission to your desired college. It allows you to showcase your unique voice, experiences, and aspirations. Taking the time to write, revise, and perfect your essay can make a significant difference in the admissions process. 

Programs like the Online Research Programme can further strengthen your essay writing and research skills , preparing you for future academic success. A strong essay can be the deciding factor that sets you apart from other candidates.

1. What is a college application essay?

A college application essay is a personal statement written by an applicant as part of the college admissions process. It provides an opportunity to showcase your writing skills, personality, and unique experiences.

2. What does a college application essay look like?

A college application essay typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. It should be well-organized, clearly written, and focused on a specific theme or experience.

3. How long should a college application essay be?

Most college application essays range from 500 to 650 words. It’s important to adhere to the word limit specified by the college.

4. How to start a college application essay?

Start with a compelling hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be an anecdote, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question.

5. What looks good on a college application essay?

A strong college application essay is authentic, reflective, and well-written. It should highlight your unique experiences, insights, and aspirations.

6. What happens if you miss the college application deadline?

Missing a college application deadline can result in your application not being considered. Some colleges may offer grace periods or late application options, but it’s best to submit your application on time.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to writing a standout college essay that can make a significant impact on your application. Remember to stay true to yourself and let your unique voice shine through.

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How to Structure an Essay

Essay writing is a fundamental skill, a basic task, that is expected of those who choose to pursue their undergraduate and master’s degrees. It constitutes a key requirement for students to complete a given course credit. However, many students and early career researchers find themselves struggling with the challenge of organizing their thoughts into a coherent, engaging structure. This article is especially for those who see essay writing as a daunting task and face problems in presenting their work in an impactful way.  

Table of Contents

• Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles  
• Essay structure template 
• Chronological structure 
• Problem-methods-solutions structure 
• Compare and contrast structures 
• Frequently asked questions on essay structure 

Read on as we delve into the basic elements of essay writing, outline key principles for organizing information, and cover some foundational features of writing essays.  

Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles

Essays are written in a flowing and continuous pattern but with a structure of its own. An introduction, body and conclusion are integral to it. The key is to balance the amount and kind of information to be presented in each part. Various disciplines may have their own conventions or guidelines on the information to be provided in the introduction.  

A clear articulation of the context and background of the study is important, as is the definition of key terms and an outline of specific models or theories used. Readers also need to know the significance of the study and its implications for further research. Most importantly, the thesis or the main proposition should be clearly presented.  

The body of the essay is therefore organized into paragraphs that hold the main ideas and arguments and is presented and analyzed in a logical manner. Ideally, each paragraph of the body focuses on one main point or a distinct topic and must be supported by evidence and analysis. The concluding paragraph should bring back to the reader the key arguments, its significance and food for thought. It is best not to re-state all the points of the essay or introduce a new concept here. 

In other words, certain general guidelines help structure the information in the essay. The information must flow logically with the context or the background information presented in the introductory part of the essay. The arguments are built organically where each paragraph in the body of the essay deals with a different point, yet closely linked to the para preceding and following it. Importantly, when writing essays, early career researchers must be careful in ensuring that each piece of information relates to the main thesis and is a building block to the arguments. 

Essay structure template

• Introduction 
• Provide the context and share significance of the study 
• Clearly articulate the thesis statement 
• Body  
• Paragraph 1 consisting of the first main point, followed by supporting evidence and an analysis of the findings. Transitional words and phrases can be used to move to the next main point. 
• There can be as many paragraphs with the above-mentioned elements as there are points and arguments to support your thesis. 
• Conclusion  
• Bring in key ideas and discuss their significance and relevance 
• Call for action 
• References 

Essay structures

The structure of an essay can be determined by the kind of essay that is required.  

Chronological structure

Also known as the cause-and-effect approach, this is a straightforward way to structure an essay. In such essays, events are discussed sequentially, as they occurred from the earliest to the latest. A chronological structure is useful for discussing a series of events or processes such as historical analyses or narratives of events. The introduction should have the topic sentence. The body of the essay should follow a chorological progression with each para discussing a major aspect of that event with supporting evidence. It ends with a summarizing of the results of the events.  

Problem-methods-solutions structure

Where the essay focuses on a specific problem, the problem-methods-solutions structure can be used to organize the essay. This structure is ideal for essays that address complex issues. It starts with presenting the problem, the context, and thesis statement as introduction to the essay. The major part of the discussion which forms the body of the essay focuses on stating the problem and its significance, the author’s approach or methods adopted to address the problem along with its relevance, and accordingly proposing solution(s) to the identified problem. The concluding part offers a recap of the research problem, methods, and proposed solutions, emphasizing their significance and potential impact. 

Compare and contrast structures

This structure of essay writing is ideally used when two or more key subjects require a comparison of ideas, theories, or phenomena. The three crucial elements, introduction, body, and conclusion, remain the same. The introduction presents the context and the thesis statement. The body of the essay seeks to focus on and highlight differences between the subjects, supported by evidence and analysis. The conclusion is used to summarize the key points of comparison and contrast, offering insights into the significance of the analysis.  

Depending on how the subjects will be discussed, the body of the essay can be organized according to the block method or the alternating method. In the block method, one para discusses one subject and the next para the other subject. In the alternative method, both subjects are discussed in one para based on a particular topic or issue followed by the next para on another issue and so on.  

Frequently asked questions on essay structure

An essay structure serves as a framework for presenting ideas coherently and logically. It comprises three crucial elements: an introduction that communicates the context, topic, and thesis statement; the body focusing on the main points and arguments supported with appropriate evidence followed by its analysis; and a conclusion that ties together the main points and its importance .  

An essay structure well-defined essay structure enhances clarity, coherence, and readability, and is crucial for organizing ideas and arguments to effectively communicate key aspects of a chosen topic. It allows readers to better understand arguments presented and demonstrates the author’s ability to organize and present information systematically. 

Yes, while expert recommend following an essay structure, early career researchers may choose how best to adapt standard essay structures to communicate and share their research in an impactful and engaging way. However, do keep in mind that deviating too far from established structures can hinder comprehension and weaken the overall effectiveness of the essay,  By understanding the basic elements of essay writing and employing appropriate structures such as chronological, problem-methods-solutions, or compare and contrast, researchers can effectively organize their ideas and communicate their findings with clarity and precision. 

Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.  

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Home — Essay Samples — Information Science and Technology — Computer Science — Computer Science – My Choice for Future Career

Computer Science – My Choice for Future Career

• Categories: Academic Interests Computer Science

About this sample

Words: 636 |

Published: Jul 15, 2020

Words: 636 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Works Cited

• Chua, S. W., Chen, D., & Wong, L. H. (2017). Investigating students' learning experiences in flipped classrooms with lecture capture lectures in undergraduate mathematics courses. Australasian Journal of Educational Technology , 33(2), 77-90.
• Deep Learning Institute. (n.d.). About DLI. Retrieved from https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/deep-learning-ai/education/
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• Hockings, C., Cooke, S., & Bowl, M. (2012). Developing a sense of belonging: How the learning environment can support the retention of students from diverse backgrounds. Higher Education Research & Development, 31(3), 403-418.
• Python Software Foundation. (n.d.). The Python programming language. Retrieved from https://www.python.org/
• Reeves, T. C., & Oh, E. (2008). The impact of online learning on learners: A recension of the literature. Educational Media International, 45(4), 325-338.
• Stowell, J. R., Addison-Wesley, L., & Olsson, A. (2017). Large-scale computer science education experiments: A review of the literature. Computer Science Education, 27(2), 107-141.
• University of Washington. (n.d.). Computer science and engineering. Retrieved from https://www.cs.washington.edu/
• Yang, S. H. (2010). Problem-based learning in an online course: A case study. Educational Technology & Society, 13(4), 236-248.
• Zhang, D., Zhou, L., Briggs, R. O., & Nunamaker Jr, J. F. (2006). Instructional video in e-learning: Assessing the impact of interactive video on learning effectiveness. Information & Management, 43(1), 15-27.

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Essay on Computer and its Uses for School Students and Children

500+ words essay on computer.

In this essay on computer, we are going to discuss some useful things about computers. The modern-day computer has become an important part of our daily life. Also, their usage has increased much fold during the last decade. Nowadays, they use the computer in every office whether private or government. Mankind is using computers for over many decades now. Also, they are used in many fields like agriculture, designing, machinery making, defense and many more. Above all, they have revolutionized the whole world.

History of Computers

It is very difficult to find the exact origin of computers. But according to some experts computer exists at the time of world war-II. Also, at that time they were used for keeping data. But, it was for only government use and not for public use. Above all, in the beginning, the computer was a very large and heavy machine.

Working of a Computer 

The computer runs on a three-step cycle namely input, process, and output. Also, the computer follows this cycle in every process it was asked to do. In simple words, the process can be explained in this way. The data which we feed into the computer is input, the work CPU do is process and the result which the computer give is output.

Components and Types of Computer

The simple computer basically consists of CPU, monitor, mouse, and keyboard . Also, there are hundreds of other computer parts that can be attached to it. These other parts include a printer, laser pen, scanner , etc.

The computer is categorized into many different types like supercomputers, mainframes, personal computers (desktop), PDAs, laptop, etc. The mobile phone is also a type of computer because it fulfills all the criteria of being a computer.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Uses of Computer in Various Fields

As the usage of computer increased it became a necessity for almost every field to use computers for their operations. Also, they have made working and sorting things easier. Below we are mentioning some of the important fields that use a computer in their daily operation.

Medical Field

They use computers to diagnose diseases, run tests and for finding the cure for deadly diseases . Also, they are able to find a cure for many diseases because of computers.

Whether it’s scientific research, space research or any social research computers help in all of them. Also, due to them, we are able to keep a check on the environment , space, and society. Space research helped us to explore the galaxies. While scientific research has helped us to locate resources and various other useful resources from the earth.

For any country, his defence is most important for the safety and security of its people. Also, computer in this field helps the country’s security agencies to detect a threat which can be harmful in the future. Above all the defense industry use them to keep surveillance on our enemy.

Threats from a Computer

Computers have become a necessity also, they have become a threat too. This is due to hackers who steal your private data and leak them on internet. Also, anyone can access this data. Apart from that, there are other threats like viruses, spams, bug and many other problems.

The computer is a very important machine that has become a useful part of our life. Also, the computers have twin-faces on one side it’s a boon and on the other side, it’s a bane. Its uses completely depend upon you. Apart from that, a day in the future will come when human civilization won’t be able to survive without computers as we depend on them too much. Till now it is a great discovery of mankind that has helped in saving thousands and millions of lives.

Frequently Asked Questions on Computer

Q.1  What is a computer?

A.1 A computer is an electronic device or machine that makes our work easier. Also, they help us in many ways.

Q.2 Mention various fields where computers are used?

A.2  Computers are majorly used in defense, medicine, and for research purposes.

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CS2023: Global Undergraduate Computer Science Curricula 

Announcing the availability of the latest curricular volume for undergraduate computer science education, developed collaboratively by ACM, IEEE-CS,and AAAI.

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Since its beginning, computer science has been one of the fastest evolving areas of study, with an expanding number of sub-disciplines and adjacent computational fields like bioinformatics and digital humanities. Today, computing is increasingly central to every aspect of everyday life. It’s more important than ever that our global educational systems are resourced to teach computer science consistently and completely around the globe, helping students to develop knowledge, understanding, and hands-on skills. As computer science educators have prepared students to enter computer science as practitioners, researchers, and educators, they have consistently turned to the ACM, the world’s largest association of computing professionals, for curricular guidelines and resources.

We are delighted to announce the general availability of the latest curricular volume for undergraduate computer science education, CS2023, developed collaboratively by ACM, IEEE-CS (the IEEE Computer Society), and AAAI (the Association for the Advancement of AI). Historically, undergraduate computer science curricular guidelines have been updated every 10 years, and for many years their development has been jointly led by ACM and IEEE-CS. We were delighted to welcome AAAI to the Steering Committee for CS2023 as we continued to focus on curating content from the world’s foremost experts for the creation of curricular guidelines.

CS2023 builds upon CS2013, the 2013 computer science curricular guidelines . The past decade has brought tremendous changes to computer science and computing education generally. In 2013, as smart phones became ubiquitous and the Internet became a general tool of commerce, communication, and socializing, cybersecurity was the emerging hot topic. The field was so new that it was called “Information Assurance and Security” in the CS2013 body of knowledge! Fast-forward to today: cybersecurity is firmly established and expanding, and artificial intelligence (AI) is the frontier field, with burgeoning implications for both curricular content and teaching, learning, and assessment methodologies.

The pace of change and the impact of evolving AI technologies in computing and beyond are awesome, and challenging for even the most knowledgeable scholars and practitioners. ACM and IEEE-CS gladly welcomed the expertise of AAAI as the joint Steering Committee undertook the decadal revision of undergraduate computing curriculum guidelines. In fact, CS2023 is the culmination of more than three years of work, helmed and organized by an international Steering Committee of 17 computing professionals from academia and industry. CS2023 provides a comprehensive set of curricular practices and guidelines for computer science today, including the requisite knowledge and student competencies for attaining undergraduate degrees in computer science.

The project began in 2021 by disseminating and analyzing a purpose-built computing community survey that included 427 academic and 865 industry respondents from around the world. Each Steering Committee member then led the development of curricular guidelines for a specific knowledge area. Each knowledge area reflects a core discipline within computer science, such as foundations of programming languages, security, artificial intelligence, and society, ethics, and the profession. The final version of CS2023 incorporates several rounds of community review and feedback collected through additional surveys, various ACM Special Interest Groups and other conferences and venues, and an online portal for general comments received throughout the project. More details on the development of CS2023 were published by ACM in June 2024.

Noteworthy Updates

CS2023 contains a number of important updates and revisions to reflect the current state of the field and best practices in computing education, including:

• Two curricular options, a knowledge model and a competency framework, to support educational approaches and requirements globally.
• Curricular and professional practices drawn from a variety of educational institutions, including liberal arts colleges, research universities, community colleges, and technical colleges from different geographic regions around the world, including Europe, Africa, the Arab world, Australasia, China, Latin America, and North America.
• New and evolving content about the ways AI is disrupting the teaching of computer science.
• A knowledge area called Society, Ethics, and the Profession (SEP), which reflects the widespread impact of computing on personal and public life in the 21st century, and encourages students to consider the social, ethical, and professional aspects of their studies and careers.
• Increased mathematical and statistical requirements to meet the disciplinary demands of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

The Future of Curricular Guidelines

When ACM began developing curricular guidelines for the community over 55 years ago, computer science was an emerging discipline; one curricular volume was sufficient to cover the entire breadth of computer science knowledge and skills required for an undergraduate degree. Over the past six decades, this has changed. Computing sub-disciplines and adjacent fields continue to expand and intertwine, and the ACM Education Board now supports, maintains, and updates 7 curricular volumes . The explosion of generative AI into the landscape in late 2023 only underscores the need for more frequent and robust curricular content updates than past practices can support, demanding an exploration of an evolutionary pathway from individual curriculum volumes toward a “Living Curriculum.”  This will be a complex challenge, and to that end, the ACM Education Board has just launched a Living Curriculum Taskforce, chaired by our esteemed colleague from New Zealand Alison Clear. If you’d like to learn more about this work, please connect with us, or with Alison, and keep an eye out for community involvement opportunities.

Please also explore and use CS2023 in your teaching and your work. We invite you to download a copy of CS2023 from the ACM Digital Library for your virtual bookshelf. We’d especially like to thank the CS2023 Steering Committee Co-Chairs Amruth Kumar (ACM) and Rajendra K. Raj (IEEE-CS), and the entire ACM/IEEE-CS/AAAI Steering Committee, for their tireless work over the past three years, and to congratulate them on a job well done.  Thank you all!

Elizabeth K. Hawthorne ([email protected]) is Co-Chair of the ACM Education Board, and Faculty and Graduate Program Director of Cybersecurity at Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ. She participated as an ACM representative on the joint steering committee of CS2013.

Alison Derbenwick Miller ([email protected]) is Co-Chair of the ACM Education Board, and currently working as an independent strategy consultant and researcher after more than 30 years in the technology industry. She recently was elected as ACM Council Member-at-Large.

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5 Science-Backed Ways to Write Clearly

If you want to become a better writer, ignore the lore and follow the science..

Posted June 24, 2024 | Reviewed by Devon Frye

• We read sentences written with active voice faster and comprehend content better than passive sentences.
• Studies document that we read and recall sentences with less effort when they turn content into micro-stories.
• Pronouns as subjects send readers backward, but readers comprehend sentences through prediction.
• Action verbs activate the brain's motor systems, creating semantic richness and enabling rapid comprehension.

Most writers assume they write well. Yet most writers grapple with the reality of writing as a black box.

That is, we know that writing works, but we’re a bit fuzzy on what makes readers grasp the meaning of some sentences instantly and without noticeable effort, while we find others difficult to understand after repeat re-readings. And contrary to popular belief, clear writing has virtually nothing to do with content, sentence length, or writing style.

Instead, we perceive sentences as clear when they map onto the methods our reading brains use to make sense of writing. Knowing the most important ones, including the below, could help make you a better writer.

1. Active voice makes sentences easier to read.

In dozens of studies, researchers have found that readers comprehend sentences more rapidly when sentences reflect the causal order of events. Two factors determine these outcomes.

First, human brains naturally perceive cause and effect, a likely survival mechanism. In fact, infants as young as six months can identify cause and effect, registered as spikes in heart rate and blood pressure.

Second, English sentence structure reflects causes and effects in its ordering of words: subject-verb-object order. In key studies, participants read sentences with active voice at speeds one-third faster than they read sentences in passive voice. More significantly, these same participants misunderstood even simple sentences in passive voice about 25 percent of the time.

As readers, we also perceive active sentences as both shorter and easier to read because active voice typically makes sentences more efficient. Consider the difference between the first sentence below, which relies on passive voice, and the second, which uses active voice.

• Passive: Among board members, there was an instant agreement to call for a pause in negotiations.
• Active: Board members instantly agreed to call for a pause in negotiations.

2. Actors or concrete objects turn sentences into micro-stories.

We read sentences with less effort—or cognitive load—when we can clearly see cause and effect, or, “who did what to whom,” as Ina Bornkessel-Schlesewsky puts it.

Bornkessel-Schlesewsky, a professor of cognitive neuroscience at the University of South Australia, used functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), to spot brains reacting to meaning and word order in sentences. Unsurprisingly, when the subjects of sentences are nouns clearly capable of performing actions, readers process sentences with greater speed and less effort. For actors, writers can choose people, organizations, publications—any individual, group, or item, intentionally created, that generates impact.

In addition to our unconsciously perceiving these sentences as easy to read and recall, we can also more readily identify actors in sentences. Furthermore, these nouns enhance the efficiency of any sentence by paring down its words. Take the examples below:

• Abstract noun as subject: Virginia Woolf’s examination of the social and economic obstacles female writers faced due to the presumption that women had no place in literary professions and so were instead relegated to the household, particularly resonated with her audience of young women who had struggled to fight for their right to study at their colleges, even after the political successes of the suffragettes.
• Actor as subject: In A Room of One’s Own , Virginia Woolf examined social and economic obstacles female writers faced. Despite the political success of the suffragettes, writers like Woolf battled the perception that women had no place in the literary professions. Thus Woolf’s book resonated with her audience, young women who had to fight for the right to study at their colleges.

3. Pronouns send readers backward, but readers make sense of sentences by anticipating what comes next.

Writers typically love to use pronouns as the subjects of sentences, especially the demonstrative pronouns this, that, these, those, and it , believing that these pronouns help link their sentences. Instead, pronouns save writers time and effort—but significantly cost readers for two likely reasons.

First, readers assume that pronouns refer to a singular noun, rather than a cluster of nouns, a phrase, or even an entire sentence. Second and more importantly, when writers use these pronouns without anchoring nouns, readers slow down and frequently misidentify the pronoun referents. In fact, readers rated writing samples with high numbers of sentences using demonstrative pronouns as being less well-written than sentences that used actors as subjects or pronouns anchored by nouns.

Pronoun as subjects: [Katie Ledecky] estimated that she swims more than 65,000 yards—or about 37 miles—a week. That adds up to 1,900 miles a year, and it means eons of staring at the black line that runs along the bottom of a pool. Actor as subject: [Katie] Ledecky swims up to 1,900 miles a year, mileage that entails seeming aeons of staring at the black line that runs along the bottom of a pool.

4. Action verbs make sentences more concrete, memorable, and efficient.

For years, old-school newspaper and magazine editors urged writers to use action verbs to enliven sentences.

However, action verbs also offer readers and writers significant benefits in terms of their memorability, as revealed in one study of readers’ recall of verbs. Of the 200 verbs in the study, readers recalled concrete verbs and nouns more accurately than non-action verbs.

In fact, when we read concrete verbs, our brains recruit the sensory-motor system, generating faster reaction times than abstract or non-action verbs, processed outside that system . Even in patients with dementia , action verbs remain among the words patients can identify with advanced disease, due to the richness of semantic associations that action verbs recruit in the brain.

• Non-action verbs: That the electric trolleys being abandoned in Philadelphia were greener and more efficient was not an insight available at that time.
• Action Verbs: Philadelphia scrapped its electric trolleys, decades before urban planners turned to greener, more efficient forms of transport.

5. Place subjects and verbs close together.

Over the past 20 years, researchers have focused on models of reading that rely on our understanding of sentence structure, a focus validated by recent studies.

As we read, we predict how sentence structure or syntax unfolds, based on our encounters with thousands of sentences. We also use the specific words we encounter in sentences to verify our predictions, beginning with grammatical subjects, followed by verbs.

As a result, readers struggle to identify subjects and verbs when writers separate them—the more distance between subjects and verbs, the slower the process of identifying them correctly. Moreover, readers make more errors in identifying correct subjects and verbs—crucial to understanding sentences—with increases in the number of words between subjects and verbs, even with relatively simple sentence structure.

Ironically, as writers tackle increasingly complex topics, they typically modify their subjects with phrases and adjective clauses that can place subjects at one end of the sentence and verbs at the opposite end. This separation strains working memory , as readers rely on subject-verb-object order in English to understand the sentence’s meaning. Consider, for example, this sentence from an online news organization:

In Florida, for instance, a bill to eliminate a requirement that students pass an Algebra I end-of-course and 10th-grade English/language arts exams in order to graduate recently cleared the Senate’s education committee.

On the other hand, when we place the subject and verb close together and use modifiers after the verb, we ease readers’ predictions and demands on working memory:

In Florida, the Senate’s education committee recently cleared a bill to eliminate two graduation requirements: an Algebra I end-of-course and 10th-grade English language arts.

Jane Yellowlees Douglas, Ph.D. , is a consultant on writing and organizations. She is also the author, with Maria B. Grant, MD, of The Biomedical Writer: What You Need to Succeed in Academic Medicine .

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