In computer terminology, a paper printout of a document produced by a printer is known as what type of copy?

Introduction / Context:
This question asks you to recall a basic term used in computer terminology when referring to printed output. Whenever a document is printed on paper, there is a standard phrase that distinguishes this physical record from the version stored on the computer screen or disk. This distinction between hard copy and soft copy is widely used in schools, offices, and exams.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The context is a document printed by a printer onto paper.
• The options include hard copy, soft copy, permanent output, and all of the above.

Concept / Approach:
Hard copy refers to a physical printed version of data, such as text on paper. Soft copy refers to information displayed on a screen or stored digitally, such as a file on disk or an image on a monitor. Permanent output is not a standard formal term used to classify copies in basic computer terminology. Therefore, the correct term for a paper printout is hard copy.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify that the question is about a paper printout produced by a printer. Step 2: Recall that the standard term for such a physical print is hard copy. Step 3: Recognise that soft copy is used to describe on screen or digital versions, not printed ones. Step 4: Note that permanent output is not the textbook phrase used in this context, even if a printout can last a long time. Step 5: Since only hard copy precisely matches the accepted term, it must be the correct answer and all of the above cannot be right.

Verification / Alternative check:
Look at standard computer fundamentals books, which usually define hard copy as any information printed on paper or similar media, and soft copy as the screen display or digital data. The examples given often include printed reports and bills as hard copies. This consistent use of terminology across references confirms that hard copy is the correct term for a printer produced paper document.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Soft copy: This is wrong because soft copy refers to data in electronic form, such as a document viewed on a monitor or stored in a file, not a printed version.
Permanent output: This is wrong because, although printouts can be long lasting, permanent output is not the standard term taught in computer awareness topics. The question expects the specific phrase hard copy.
All of the above: This is wrong because at least one of the listed options, soft copy, clearly does not describe a paper printout. Therefore not all statements can be correct at the same time.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners are tempted by all of the above, thinking that any phrase describing output might count. Others mix up the meanings of hard copy and soft copy because both refer to the same underlying information. Remember to focus on the form in which the information is presented; physical printed form is always hard copy in this terminology.

Final Answer:
A paper printout of a document produced by a printer is known as a Hard copy.