Explain the purpose of an input device and give two examples.

• A. An input device outputs data from the computer to a display.
• B. An input device stores data for long-term use.
• C. An input device processes computational tasks directly.
• D. An input device allows users to send data to the computer; examples include keyboard and mouse.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that input devices let you send information to the computer. They take your actions, like pressing keys or moving a mouse, and turn them into signals the computer can understand so it can respond or perform tasks. A keyboard and a mouse are classic examples because they are designed to input data and commands: the keyboard converts each keystroke into a code the computer uses, and the mouse reports movement and clicks to control the cursor and select things on the screen. The other options describe outputting data to a display, storing data for long-term use, or performing calculations, which are different roles from input. So, an input device is defined by its function of sending data to the computer, with keyboard and mouse as typical examples.