Instruction classification: MOV, PUSH, and POP belong to which instruction category in a typical CPU instruction set?

Introduction / Context:
Instruction sets are grouped into categories such as data transfer, arithmetic/logic, control flow, and bit manipulation. Recognizing categories improves readability and helps optimize compilers and hand-written assembly.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• MOV copies data between registers/memory.
• PUSH places data on the stack; POP retrieves it.
• None of these perform arithmetic; they move or stage data.

Concept / Approach:
All three instructions move data from one place to another or change storage location (registers/stack), fitting the “data transfer” category.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Instruction set references classify these as move/stack operations under data transfer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Thinking PUSH/POP are control flow because of their association with CALL/RET; they themselves only move data.

Final Answer:
Data transfer