Which statement correctly identifies the two major categories of software?

Which statement correctly identifies the two major categories of software?

• A. System software and application software
• B. Word processing and presentation software
• C. Firmware and drivers
• D. Utility software and graphics software

Answer: (A)

Software is typically grouped into two major categories: system software and application software. System software includes the programs that run the computer itself and manage hardware resources, such as the operating system, device drivers, and utilities that keep the system healthy. Application software comprises programs designed for user tasks, like word processors, web browsers, and image editors. This distinction explains why the two broad categories answer is correct: one set keeps the computer operating, while the other helps people accomplish specific activities. The other options mix items that are either parts of those broader groups or are examples within a single category, not the broad two-category split—word processing and presentation software are both applications; firmware and drivers are lower‑level components rather than a broad two‑category division; and utility software paired with graphics software blends a utility with a specialized application, not the standard two-category framework.

Software is typically grouped into two major categories: system software and application software. System software includes the programs that run the computer itself and manage hardware resources, such as the operating system, device drivers, and utilities that keep the system healthy. Application software comprises programs designed for user tasks, like word processors, web browsers, and image editors. This distinction explains why the two broad categories answer is correct: one set keeps the computer operating, while the other helps people accomplish specific activities. The other options mix items that are either parts of those broader groups or are examples within a single category, not the broad two-category split—word processing and presentation software are both applications; firmware and drivers are lower‑level components rather than a broad two‑category division; and utility software paired with graphics software blends a utility with a specialized application, not the standard two-category framework.