Handling Computer File - SS2 ICT Past Questions and Answers - page 2

A sequential file is a type of file where data is stored in a continuous sequence without any internal structure or organization. In this file type, records are written one after another, forming a linear sequence. Characteristics of sequential files include simplicity, ease of implementation, and suitability for storing simple data that doesn't require complex retrieval methods. However, they are less efficient for searching and updating specific records due to their lack of internal organization.

Error handling during file operations is crucial to ensure the reliability and stability of the program. Files can encounter various issues such as disk full errors, permission problems, hardware failures, or unexpected program crashes. Proper error handling allows programs to gracefully handle these situations by providing informative error messages, taking corrective actions, or avoiding data loss. By anticipating and managing errors, programs can avoid crashes, provide better user experience, and protect data integrity.

Sequential files store data in a linear sequence without internal organization, while random access files allow direct access to any record based on its position or key. Sequential files are simple to implement but are less efficient for data retrieval and updates, as records must be read one after another until the desired record is reached. Random access files offer faster access to specific records, making them suitable for databases and applications that require quick data retrieval. However, random access files are more complex to manage and implement compared to sequential files.

You can modify the code by adding newline characters ("\n") at the end of each piece of data to ensure they are written on separate lines in the file. Here's how the modified code would look:

python Copy code

# Step 1: Open the file for writing

file = open("sequential_file.txt", "w")

# Step 2: Write data to the file

data1 = "Hello, "

data2 = "world!"

file.write(data1 + "\n")

file.write(data2 + "\n")

# Step 3: Close the file

file.close()

You might choose to use a structured file format like CSV (Comma-Separated Values) over a sequential file when you need to store tabular data with multiple fields or attributes. CSV files allow you to organize data into rows and columns, making it easier to represent and manipulate structured information. They are commonly used for data exchange between applications, database imports/exports, and spreadsheet compatibility. Sequential files, on the other hand, are better suited for storing raw data without complex structures or relationships between fields.