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Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle

Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle The CPU runs programs using the fetch-decode-execute cycle. Stages: - Fetch: The next instruction is retrieved from memory. - Decode: The instruction is interpreted by the control unit. - Execute: The instruction is carried out, often involving the ALU or registers. This cycle repeats continuously while the computer is running.

Practise exam question

Explain what happens at each stage of the fetch-decode-execute cycle. (6 marks)

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