Arrange the steps of Data processing cycle in correct sequence: A. Input B.…

Concept — The data processing cycle is the standard model of how raw data is turned into usable information. Its stage order is fixed by a dependency chain: each stage can only act on what the stage before it has already produced. The four stages are input (capturing raw data), processing (applying operations and program instructions to that data), storage (retaining the result on a medium so it persists), and output (delivering the information in a usable form).

Application — Mapping the labelled steps of this item onto that chain:

1. A. Input — raw data such as keystrokes, scanned forms or sensor readings is captured and entered into the system. Until this happens, no later stage has anything to work on.

2. C. Processing — the processor applies arithmetic, logical and program-defined operations to the captured data, converting it into meaningful information.

3. D. Storage — the resulting information, together with the source data, is written to a storage medium so that it persists and can be retrieved or reused later.

4. B. Output — the information is delivered in a usable form: shown on a screen, printed, or written out as a report or file.

The sequence that matches the cycle is therefore A, C, D, B.

Cross-check — Test the same dependency rule against the other sequences offered:

• D, A, C, B starts with storage, but at that point no data has been captured, so there is nothing to store.

• A, B, C, D delivers output before processing, so the system would be presenting raw, unprocessed data as its result.

• B, A, C, D starts with output, which would mean delivering a result before any data has entered the system.

Only A, C, D, B satisfies the rule that no stage can act on data an earlier stage has not yet produced.