The exam emphasizes computational problem-solving, programming, and software development principles. Key topics include algorithm design with sentinel values, hand-tracing algorithms, and implementing pseudocode for series calculations and validation tasks. Practical programming focuses on modifying a skeleton program to include subroutines for image mirroring, hidden message decryption in greyscale images, and file compression using run-length encoding. Data structure usage, hierarchy chart interpretation, and iteration effects in image rendering are analyzed. Boolean values, string processing, and constants in programming are explored. Ethical and computational thinking are assessed through structured coding, debugging, and expanding program functionalities in dynamic environments.