Computer Science GCSE
Overflow Error
What Overflow Error means in Computer Science GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Overflow Error
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
An error that occurs when the result of a calculation requires more bits to store than are available in the computer's architecture.
An error that occurs when the result of a binary calculation requires more bits than the system has available to store it.
Topics that use Overflow Error
- Data (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
- Topic 2: Data (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
Using Overflow Error in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
Practise Computer Science questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Computer Science GCSE terms7 days Premium · Then free forever · No card, no charge